Could mold cause our children's coughing?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new home in Jumeirah two months ago, I’ve been noticing a lingering musty smell coming from the children’s room. The window is usually closed due to the air conditioning, but even when it’s open, the odor persists. It’s not just a slight scent; it’s quite strong and makes me worry about their health, especially since they’ve had more coughing fits lately. Has anyone else experienced something similar in Dubai? Could this be related to mold or some other issue we might need to address?
Posted by Giuseppe Durand
Asked on January 27, 2026 2:10 am
Absolutely, the musty smell coupled with the increased coughing fits could be indicative of mold presence. Mold spores can flourish in damp environments and are known allergens that can exacerbate respiratory conditions like coughs, especially among children.

In Dubai's climate, humidity levels can fluctuate significantly between day and night, even during cooler months, which might create ideal conditions for mold growth within sealed indoor spaces such as your children's room. The persistent odor suggests there may be a moisture source that isn't easily visible to the naked eye, like a hidden leak or excess moisture in building materials.

UAE regulations stipulate that buildings should maintain an indoor relative humidity below 60% to prevent mold proliferation. Given Dubai's high temperatures and occasional heavy rainfall periods, maintaining this level can be challenging without proper control measures. HVAC systems must also undergo regular maintenance to ensure they are not contributing to mold growth by circulating moist air.

It would be prudent to conduct a professional inspection from a company like ours at Saniservice to identify the source of moisture and assess if there is active mold growth in your home. Early detection can prevent further health issues for your children.

If you decide to proceed with an inspection, keep an eye out during the assessment for signs of water damage such as discolored walls or ceilings, peeling paint, or musty odors even in areas without apparent leaks. These could all be red flags indicating mold growth.

In terms of prevention, ensure that your home has adequate ventilation and dehumidification systems, especially in high-risk areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Regularly inspect these spaces for signs of moisture buildup and address any issues promptly to prevent mold from establishing itself.

Remember, the health of your family should be a top priority, so don't hesitate to take action if you suspect mold is present. Call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance tailored to the UAE market.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 30, 2026 12:26 am