Can mold from bathroom cause kids' coughing?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in my bathroom, especially when I open the window. It's hard to ignore because it’s always present even after cleaning. The shower curtain is also starting to look greenish around the edges, which makes me worry about mold. Could this be causing my kids' persistent coughing and congestion?
Posted by Susan Brown
Asked on February 20, 2026 2:00 am
Yes, mold from bathrooms can indeed cause respiratory issues such as persistent coughing and congestion in children. In the UAE context, particularly in Dubai, where humidity levels might be higher due to climate conditions or air conditioning usage, mold growth is more likely to occur especially after heavy rains which you've experienced recently.

Mold spores are airborne and when they enter the respiratory system, they can irritate the mucous membranes, leading to symptoms like coughing and congestion. In children, these symptoms might be exacerbated due to their smaller airways and developing immune systems making them more susceptible to allergies and infections.

Given your observation of a musty smell persistently in the bathroom even after cleaning and the appearance of greenish discoloration on the shower curtain edges, it is highly probable that mold growth has occurred. The UAE does not have specific regulations regarding indoor mold but following best practices for mold remediation is essential to ensure health and safety.

A professional inspection by a certified environmental expert would be advisable to accurately assess the situation and determine the extent of contamination. They can use advanced tools like moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air quality tests to identify hidden mold growth that might not be visible to the naked eye.

Once identified, remediation should address both the source of moisture (which could be related to plumbing issues or poor ventilation) as well as the removal of contaminated materials. It is important to use proper containment and HEPA-filtered vacuums during clean-up to prevent cross-contamination and spread of mold spores.

For immediate relief for your children, consider using a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter in their rooms, which can help reduce airborne mold spores. Also, ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated by running an exhaust fan while showering and leaving it on until the humidity levels drop.

If you need assistance, feel free to contact our company at 800-MOLDS or email us at hello@saniservice.com for a professional inspection and remediation service tailored for your home in Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 22, 2026 9:28 pm