Could musty smell affect our family's health?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the kitchen area of our apartment. My son has been complaining of a persistent cough since then, and my daughter seems to have developed itchy eyes too. Could this be related to the indoor air quality? What steps can we take to improve it?
Posted by Brian Clark
Asked on December 28, 2025 3:21 am
0
Yes, the musty smell could definitely affect your family's health. In Dubai and UAE generally, we often experience humid conditions post-rainfall which can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These microorganisms thrive in damp environments and release spores into the air that can irritate respiratory systems.

The symptoms you're experiencing with your son’s cough and your daughter’s itchy eyes might be linked to indoor air quality issues. Mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander are common allergens found in such conditions, which could trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate existing ones.

To address the issue, I recommend taking several steps:

1. Assess and Clean: Start by thoroughly cleaning areas where moisture has been a concern. Focus on kitchen, bathroom, and any other damp spots. Use a mixture of water and detergent to clean surfaces and ensure there's no standing water.

2. Ventilation: Increase the ventilation in your home. Open windows when weather permits or use exhaust fans to remove excess humidity from the air. In Dubai, this might mean running fans for longer periods after rain events.

3. Drying Out: Dry out any wet areas promptly. Use dehumidifiers if necessary to keep relative humidity levels below 60%. This is particularly important in a climate as humid as UAE's.

4. Professional Inspection: Given the specific conditions and symptoms you're experiencing, I would recommend scheduling an inspection with a professional environmental remediation company like ours at Saniservice. Our team can conduct a thorough assessment of your home’s indoor air quality and provide tailored solutions to improve it.

5. Regular Maintenance: After addressing immediate concerns, establish regular maintenance practices such as cleaning filters in HVAC systems, ensuring proper sealing around doors and windows, and keeping plants out of the kitchen if they are contributing to moisture issues.

Remember, it's crucial to take quick action once you notice these symptoms linked to indoor air quality problems. The health of your family is paramount, so don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help when needed. Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com if you require assistance.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 29, 2025 9:19 pm