Could mold cause my kids' respiratory issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the bedroom closet. When I opened it up, I found some dark patches on the back of the closet door that looked suspiciously like mold. My kids have been complaining of coughing and running noses lately, which makes me worry that they might be breathing in something harmful. Could these symptoms be related to the hidden mold?
Posted by Mark Lewis
Asked on December 25, 2025 5:01 pm
Could mold cause my kids' respiratory issues?

Absolutely, hidden mold can indeed contribute to respiratory problems, especially for children who are more susceptible due to their developing immune systems. The musty smell and the dark patches you noticed on the closet door could very well be indicative of mold growth, which is a common issue in the UAE post heavy rains.

In Dubai and the UAE, humidity levels can soar during certain times of the year, making conditions ripe for mold proliferation. Given your observations about the dark patches appearing as if they're on the back of the closet door, it's crucial to get this checked out by a professional environmental inspector who is familiar with local regulations such as those found in EN 15321-1:2016, which outlines guidelines for mold inspection.

The symptoms your kids are experiencing—coughing and runny noses—are indeed consistent with exposure to airborne mold spores. Mold can release allergens that trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate existing conditions like asthma. Moreover, some molds produce mycotoxins that could pose a serious health risk, especially for children and the elderly.

Given these concerns, it would be wise to contact a professional service such as Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) for an inspection. They can provide a thorough assessment of your home’s air quality and identify any hidden mold sources. A full remediation plan could then be developed, which may include treating the affected areas with appropriate biocides, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any moisture issues that could lead to further mold growth.

In the meantime, you might want to use an air purifier in your children's rooms as a temporary measure to reduce their exposure. However, this should not replace professional inspection and remediation efforts.

Remember, early detection and prompt action can significantly mitigate health risks associated with hidden mold in the UAE.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 28, 2025 4:19 am