Could mold in my house be causing my kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop since the school break started, and I’m starting to panic. I’ve just pulled out a bunch of old winter clothes from the storage cupboard under the stairs in our villa, and there's black fuzzy patches all over a few of the jackets and the wall behind them. The smell in there is really damp and earthy. Could this mold be the cause of their coughs, and what’s the safest way for me to clean this without making my family sick?
Posted by Hannah Miller
Asked on March 25, 2026 7:57 am
0
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold in your storage cupboard is contributing to, if not directly causing, your children's persistent coughs. The symptoms you describe are classic indicators of mold exposure, which can cause allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, and asthma-like symptoms, especially in children whose immune systems are more sensitive. The "black fuzzy patches" and "damp, earthy smell" confirm an active and significant mold colony.

The conditions you found are a textbook example of a problem we frequently see in Dubai villas. The UAE's intense humidity, combined with dust and year-round AC use that can create temperature differentials, leads to condensation in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces like under-stair cupboards. Storing organic materials like cotton or leather in these damp, dark environments provides the perfect food source for mold to thrive.

Regarding cleaning, I must strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold by wiping or brushing it will aerosolize millions of microscopic spores, spreading them throughout your home's air conditioning system and living areas. This could drastically increase your family's exposure and exacerbate their health issues. Over-the-counter cleaning solutions are often ineffective against the root cause and can be harmful when mixed incorrectly.

This situation requires professional assessment and remediation. Dubai Municipality has specific guidelines for indoor environmental quality, and improper handling can violate these standards. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and the full extent of the contamination, including inside the walls, which is crucial for a permanent solution.

For the health of your family, I recommend you contact a professional immediately. Our team at Saniservice is trained in UAE-specific protocols and can safely contain the area, remove the contaminated materials, and remediate the source of moisture to prevent recurrence. Please call us at 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com for an urgent inspection. Do not risk your family's health with a DIY approach on a problem of this scale.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 29, 2026 8:13 pm