Should damp carpet after rains harm my children?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last week, I noticed water pooling near the kitchen sink, which is below our children's room. It’s a bit unsettling to think about what might be happening up there, especially since they sleep upstairs. The carpet smells damp, but we haven’t seen any obvious leaks yet. Have anyone else experienced similar issues post-flood and how did you address them?
Posted by Dieter Ferrari
Asked on January 17, 2026 9:31 pm
Damp carpet after rains can indeed pose significant health concerns for your family, especially in the context of the UAE environment. The local climate and high humidity levels make it a prime condition for mold growth, which is particularly dangerous for children due to their developing immune systems.

According to the UAE's building codes, which emphasize indoor air quality and safety standards (like EN 16032), it’s crucial to address any water pooling issues promptly. The moisture in your carpet can lead to the proliferation of microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, and fungi, which could cause respiratory infections or exacerbate existing allergies.

If you have noticed a damp smell emanating from the area, this is often an early indicator that moisture has entered into the carpet fibers. Over time, mold spores can grow undetected, potentially leading to more severe health issues for your children. It’s essential to act quickly and thoroughly assess the extent of damage.

Professional inspection by a certified environmental remediation company like Saniservice (you can contact them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) is highly recommended. These professionals are equipped with advanced tools such as moisture meters, thermometers, and hygrometers to accurately measure the humidity levels in your carpet and surrounding area.

They will also use specialized techniques like air sampling to detect mold spores that may not be visible to the naked eye. This step ensures a comprehensive assessment of the situation, providing you with peace of mind regarding the safety of your home environment.

In the interim, it’s advisable to take some immediate steps:
• Remove any wet carpet and replace or dry it properly
• Use dehumidifiers in affected areas to reduce moisture levels
• Ensure proper ventilation through windows or exhaust fans

Always remember that early intervention is key. Delaying action could result in more extensive damage requiring costly repairs, not to mention the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to damp environments.

By addressing this issue promptly and engaging professional help when necessary, you can safeguard your family’s health and ensure a safe living environment for them.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 19, 2026 9:45 pm