Could old carpet cause my son's cough?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in the bedroom where my son sleeps. It's particularly strong when he gets out of bed and plays near his closet. The carpet there is quite old and seems to trap moisture easily. Could this be causing his persistent cough? What can we do to clean it effectively without disturbing him too much at night?
Posted by Thomas Lee
Asked on December 26, 2025 4:53 am
0
Could old carpet cause my son's cough?

Yes, it is possible that the old carpet could be contributing to your son's persistent cough. In a climate like Dubai’s, where humidity levels can fluctuate significantly, carpets act as breeding grounds for mold and dust mites—both of which are common triggers for respiratory issues.

The musty smell you're noticing is likely due to moisture retention within the carpet backing or padding, creating an environment perfect for mold growth. Mold spores can easily become airborne when disturbed, leading to potential allergic reactions and respiratory issues such as coughing, especially in children who spend a lot of time on or near the floor.

Given your situation, it would be prudent to address this issue promptly. Here are some steps you could take:

1. Professional Inspection: Consider having a professional environmental inspection done. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice offer thorough assessments for mold and other indoor air quality issues. They can provide detailed reports and advice on how to proceed.

2. Ventilation: Improve the ventilation in your son’s bedroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows when weather permits to reduce moisture levels. This can help prevent further growth of mold and dust mites.

3. Cleaning: Regular cleaning is crucial, but deep-cleaning services might be necessary for an old carpet. Steam cleaning could be effective, but it's important to ensure the carpet dries completely afterward to avoid trapping moisture.

4. Dehumidification: Consider installing a dehumidifier in the room. These devices can help maintain optimal humidity levels and reduce the risk of mold growth. The ideal indoor relative humidity for Dubai is around 30-50%.

5. Replace Carpet (if necessary): If the carpet cannot be adequately cleaned or dried, replacing it might be the best option. Newer carpets are designed to resist moisture better.

6. Consult a Doctor: Given your son’s persistent cough, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended. They can assess if allergies or other respiratory issues are contributing factors and provide appropriate treatment.

Remember, addressing these issues early can prevent more serious health concerns down the line. For immediate assistance in Dubai, you can contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for professional guidance on how to tackle this problem effectively.

Taking these steps should help create a healthier environment for your son and potentially alleviate his cough.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 31, 2025 5:19 am