Could mold in our closet cause my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth discovered in your storage cupboard is the primary cause of your children's persistent cough. The fuzzy black spots are characteristic of a significant mold colony, and the damp, earthy odor confirms active microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC) production, which is a key indicator of a problematic infestation.

In the UAE's climate, this is a common issue. The extreme humidity, combined with the constant cooling from year-round AC, creates massive condensation problems in poorly ventilated spaces like under-stair cupboards. This condensation provides the perfect moisture source for mold spores, which are ubiquitous in the environment, to germinate and proliferate on organic materials like cotton, leather, and dust.

The coughing is a direct reaction to inhaling these spores and MVOCs, which are respiratory irritants and can trigger allergic reactions and asthma-like symptoms, especially in children whose immune systems are more sensitive.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment will aerosolize a massive amount of spores, significantly worsening the indoor air quality and potentially spreading the contamination throughout your home. Over-the-counter cleaning solutions are ineffective against the root cause and can be hazardous if mixed incorrectly.

This situation requires professional assessment and remediation. We must identify the exact species of mold (e.g., Stachybotrys, Aspergillus) and the source of the moisture—whether it's condensation, a hidden leak, or capillary rising damp—to ensure the problem is solved permanently. Our certified technicians use containment barriers, HEPA filtration, and EPA-approved antimicrobials to safely remediate the area and prevent cross-contamination.

For the health of your family, I strongly recommend a professional inspection and hygienization service. Contact Saniservice for an immediate assessment at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or hello@saniservice.com. We can determine the full scope of the issue and safely restore your home to a healthy condition.