Could musty smell cause breathing issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the intense heat wave we had last summer, I noticed a persistent musty smell in the bedroom where my grandmother stays. It’s particularly strong when she takes her afternoon nap, and it lingers even after airing out the room. The air feels heavy, almost damp, despite having good ventilation and running the dehumidifier. Have anyone else experienced similar issues with elderly relatives living in a hot climate like ours? Could this be causing breathing problems for my grandmother?
Posted by Brian Hill
Asked on December 18, 2025 7:16 am
0
Certainly, the musty smell you're experiencing can indeed be a sign of underlying issues that might affect your grandmother's health. In Dubai and the UAE, humidity levels can soar during summer months, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. This isn't uncommon; many folks in our climate have faced similar challenges.

The smell of mold is often described as musty or earthy and typically comes from damp areas where moisture has accumulated over time. Mold thrives in warm and humid environments, which are quite common during the summer months here. It can grow on various surfaces like walls, carpets, and even fabrics if they remain moist for prolonged periods.

Given your description of a heavy air feeling and lingering smell despite good ventilation and dehumidification efforts, it's highly possible that mold could be causing this situation. Mold not only produces that unpleasant smell but also releases spores into the air which can irritate the respiratory system, especially in elderly individuals who may already have compromised lung function due to age or other health conditions.

In Dubai, according to the UAE's Environment Agency and Building Code, it is crucial to maintain indoor environmental quality by ensuring proper ventilation and moisture control. The regulations emphasize the importance of creating a healthy living environment that minimizes risks from pollutants such as mold.

For your situation, I recommend scheduling an inspection with a professional company like ours at Saniservice. We can provide a thorough assessment of your grandmother's bedroom to identify any potential sources of mold and offer remediation solutions. Our team is experienced in dealing with these issues in the UAE climate and can give you peace of mind by addressing the problem effectively.

If you decide not to proceed with an inspection, here are some immediate steps you could take:
• Increase ventilation by opening windows if possible or using fans.
• Use a dehumidifier or air purifier that filters out mold spores from the air.
• Clean surfaces and areas where moisture has accumulated, using products specifically designed for mold removal.
• Wash bed linens and fabrics in hot water to kill any lingering spores.

Remember, early detection and treatment can prevent more serious health issues. If you notice your grandmother experiencing breathing difficulties or other symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or a runny nose after exposure, it's important to consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for any further assistance or if you have questions. We're here to help ensure your family stays healthy and comfortable in their home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 20, 2025 4:05 am