Is black mold causing my child's cough?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black, powdery spots appearing on the back of our bedroom closet, which is on an interior wall. My youngest has been having a persistent cough and a runny nose for the last month that doesn't seem to go away, and I'm terrified it's connected. What's the safest and most effective way to deal with this ourselves, or should I call a professional company in Dubai right away?
Posted by William Allen
Asked on March 28, 2026 6:32 am
Based on your description, there is a high probability that the black, powdery substance is mold, and it is very plausible that it is contributing to your child's persistent respiratory symptoms. The symptoms you describe—a chronic cough and runny nose—are classic indicators of mold exposure, particularly in sensitive individuals like children.

The UAE's climate is a significant factor. The extreme humidity, combined with year-round air conditioning, creates ideal conditions for mold growth. AC units can cause significant condensation on and within walls, especially in poorly ventilated spaces like closets on interior walls. The "black, powdery" appearance is characteristic of mold colonies that have released their spores.

For your family's safety, I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself. Disturbing the mold without proper containment will aerosolize a massive amount of spores, drastically increasing the airborne concentration and potentially making the health situation much worse for your child. Over-the-counter cleaning solutions are ineffective against the root problem and can sometimes exacerbate it.

The only safe and effective course of action is to call a professional environmental inspection company immediately. In Dubai, proper remediation requires certified specialists who follow strict protocols for containment, air filtration, removal, and disposal to prevent cross-contamination. They will conduct a thorough inspection, including air and surface sampling, to identify the species and spore count, which is crucial for determining the correct remediation strategy.

For an immediate assessment and to safeguard your family's health, I recommend you contact the experts at Saniservice. They are highly experienced with mold issues specific to Dubai's environment. You can reach them at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. Do not delay, as prolonged exposure can lead to worsening health effects.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 8:06 am