Should I address musty smell without disturbing elderly relative?« Back to Previous Page

Since moving into our new flat a few months ago, we’ve noticed an odd musty smell coming from the elderly relative’s room. It’s particularly noticeable after they take a shower or use the bathroom. I’m worried it might be mold growing in there but don’t want to disturb them too much as they’re quite frail and have limited mobility. Have any of you dealt with this kind of issue before? How did you address it without causing too much disruption?
Posted by Geeta Bose
Asked on January 6, 2026 9:01 am
0
Addressing the musty smell without disturbing your elderly relative can indeed be tricky. Given that it's more prevalent after they take a shower or use the bathroom, mold growth is definitely a possibility. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, humidity levels can sometimes create ideal conditions for mold to thrive, especially if there are issues with ventilation.

Firstly, I would suggest reaching out to a professional environmental inspection and remediation company like Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 or email hello@saniservice.com) for an assessment. They can provide expert advice tailored specifically to your situation and ensure the process is as gentle as possible, considering their mobility limitations.

In the meantime, here are some steps you could consider:

1. Ventilation: Ensure that the room has proper ventilation. Open windows if it’s a mild day or use exhaust fans to help air out the area after they shower or use the bathroom.

2. Humidity Control: Use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low, which is crucial in preventing mold growth. In Dubai, where temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night, maintaining consistent indoor moisture levels is important.

3. Cleaning Routine: Gently clean surfaces around the bathroom with a solution of water and vinegar or a mild detergent. This can help kill existing mold spores without causing too much disturbance. Be cautious during these cleaning sessions to avoid any accidents given their limited mobility.

4. Inspection Before Major Cleaning: Before embarking on more extensive cleaning, it might be wise to get an expert opinion to understand the extent of the problem and ensure that your actions do not cause any distress or injury.

5. Comfort Measures: Ensure they are comfortable during these times. Maybe adjust their schedule a bit so that cleaning activities can be done when they are either asleep or in another part of the house, thereby minimizing disruption.

Remember, while you might feel inclined to tackle this issue yourself, professional help is invaluable in ensuring both safety and effectiveness. They will have the right tools and expertise to assess the situation accurately and provide a plan that considers all factors, including your elderly relative's condition.

Taking these steps should help alleviate the musty smell without causing undue disturbance or stress.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 8, 2026 3:12 am