Is mold in closet causing family coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of my bedroom closet. It’s particularly noticeable when opening the door after it hasn’t been used for a while. My kids have also been complaining about coughing more often since we moved into this flat two years ago. Could this be related to mold in our chiller? What steps should I take to address and prevent this issue from recurring?
Posted by Pooja Sen
Asked on February 20, 2026 1:16 pm
Mold growth in the closet could indeed be causing those uncomfortable coughing symptoms. Mold is a common allergen that can lead to respiratory issues and increased coughing, especially for children who are more sensitive to airborne irritants.

In Dubai, mold can thrive particularly well due to high humidity levels and warm temperatures, making it crucial to address potential moisture-related issues promptly. The musty smell you're detecting is a strong indicator of mold presence, as it typically signifies the decomposition process occurring within damp environments.

Given your situation, I'd recommend conducting a thorough inspection by calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance. They can provide an accurate assessment and identify if the chiller is indeed contributing to moisture problems. The chiller might be malfunctioning or allowing condensation build-up which could create ideal conditions for mold growth.

Steps you should take immediately:

1. Reduce humidity: Use dehumidifiers in high-risk areas like your closet, ensuring the indoor relative humidity stays below 60%. In Dubai's climate, this is particularly important.
2. Inspect and clean the chiller system: Check for any leaks or improper drainage that could be causing moisture accumulation. Ensure the chiller is properly maintained to prevent condensation build-up within the closet.
3. Clean affected areas: Once mold is identified, sanitize the infected areas using a solution of water and detergent followed by a bleach or hydrogen peroxide solution (10% concentration). This will help eliminate current mold colonies but remember this does not guarantee prevention without addressing moisture issues.
4. Sealing gaps: Seal any cracks or gaps in your closet’s walls, floor, or ceiling to prevent further entry points for moisture.

It's also advisable to monitor indoor air quality using devices like particulate monitors which can alert you to elevated levels of mold spores and other allergens. Regularly inspecting such areas is key to maintaining a healthy living environment.

By addressing these issues promptly, you can significantly reduce the risk of further mold growth and alleviate the associated health concerns for your family in Dubai's climate conditions.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 22, 2026 1:42 pm