Is mold in closet harming family health?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, and when I opened it up, there was mold growing on some of the clothes. The kids have been complaining of a stuffy nose and coughing lately, especially at night. Could this be related to the mold in our closet?
Posted by John Harris
Asked on December 20, 2025 1:09 pm
The presence of mold in your closet does have the potential to impact the health and well-being of your family. Mold spores can become airborne easily, and if they come into contact with moisture or dampness inside enclosed spaces like closets, they may start growing and releasing allergens, mycotoxins, and other irritants which can significantly affect respiratory health.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, humidity levels during summer months can be quite high, creating favorable conditions for mold growth. The recent heavy rains have likely exacerbated this situation, leading to increased moisture content within your closet environment.

From a technical perspective, it's crucial to understand that exposure to indoor molds can lead to a range of health symptoms such as allergic reactions (sneezing, runny nose, congestion), irritant effects (watery eyes, skin rashes, coughing, wheezing), and in some cases, more severe respiratory issues. The symptoms you have observed – stuffy noses and persistent coughing, especially at night – could indeed be linked to the mold in your closet.

Given these concerns, I highly recommend a professional inspection by a certified environmental inspector who is well-versed in the UAE's building sciences and indoor air quality standards. The Building Control Department (BCD) regulations in Dubai emphasize maintaining safe indoor environments free from harmful contaminants like mold. A thorough inspection can help identify not only active mold colonies but also potential sources of moisture that need to be addressed.

If a professional assessment confirms active mold growth, it's advisable to take prompt action. Mold remediation should always follow strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of occupants during cleanup operations. Typically, this involves removing affected materials, properly disposing of them in accordance with local regulations, and ensuring that the area is thoroughly cleaned and treated to inhibit further growth.

To prevent recurrence, it's important to maintain good indoor air quality by addressing any leaks or water damage promptly, using dehumidifiers where necessary, and ensuring proper ventilation. Regular maintenance checks can also help identify and resolve issues before they escalate into more serious problems.

In summary, the symptoms your family is experiencing could indeed be related to mold in your closet. It's imperative to seek professional assistance for a detailed inspection and remediation if needed. For immediate assistance or further guidance, don't hesitate to contact us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.

Remember, maintaining a healthy indoor environment is crucial for the well-being of all family members, especially in a climate like Dubai's where humidity can be challenging.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 22, 2025 10:24 am