Is musty smell from leak harming my kids?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in my bedroom, especially when the air conditioning is on. It’s really worrying because my children have been complaining of headaches and coughing, particularly at night. The window seals seem to be pretty bad, allowing water to get in during heavy showers. Could this be causing their symptoms? What can I do to improve the indoor air quality in my home?
Posted by Akira Zhou
Asked on December 19, 2025 4:20 am
0
Yes, it's quite possible the musty smell from the leak is harming your kids. The symptoms you're describing - headaches and coughing especially at night - are common indicators of poor indoor air quality. A musty smell typically points to mold growth, which can release spores and other allergens that irritate the respiratory system.

In Dubai and the UAE in general, regulations concerning indoor environmental quality aren't as stringent as in some other regions, but ensuring a healthy living environment for you and your family is paramount. The window seals being bad and allowing water to seep into the room during heavy showers provide an ideal condition for mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments which are exactly what you've got with leaking windows.

To improve indoor air quality and address this issue, I'd recommend a few steps:

1. Fix the Leak: Start by addressing the leak at its source to prevent further water intrusion and mold growth. This might involve replacing or sealing the window seals properly.

2. Ventilate Your Home: Ensure good ventilation in your home. Open windows when possible, use exhaust fans over showers and stoves, and consider a whole-house fan if you have one.

3. Clean Regularly: Dust and clean surfaces regularly to prevent mold spores from accumulating. Use a HEPA vacuum cleaner for better efficiency.

4. Use Dehumidifiers: If humidity levels are high (above 60%), use dehumidifiers in affected rooms to reduce moisture content, which can help inhibit mold growth.

5. Professional Inspection and Remediation: It's highly advisable to call an expert for a professional inspection of your home’s air quality and any potential mold issues. In the UAE, companies like Saniservice can help with this. They offer services such as indoor environmental inspections, remediation, and more.

Remember, children are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses due to their smaller lungs and developing immune systems. So, it's crucial to act promptly to ensure a safe environment for them.

If you're concerned about the situation or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-66537 (call 800-MOLDS too) or email hello@saniservice.com. They can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs in Dubai.

Taking these steps will help you create a healthier living environment for your family, reducing the risk of mold-related health issues.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 21, 2025 4:09 am