Is the black mold in my closet dangerous?« Back to Previous Page

Our family apartment in Jumeirah has this persistent damp smell, especially in the master bedroom closet that’s on the wall facing Deira. Since the humidity really kicked in a couple of months ago, my husband and I have both been waking up with stuffy noses and sore throats that clear up when we're at work. I just pulled out a stack of winter clothes and found several jumpers with fuzzy black spots on them. How dangerous is this kind of mold for our health, and should we get a professional test done or just clean it ourselves immediately?
Posted by Chiara Esposito
Asked on March 24, 2026 11:10 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described—stuffy noses, sore throats that resolve outside the home, and visible black spots on clothing—it is highly probable you are dealing with a mold colony that is actively impacting your indoor air quality and health. In the UAE's high-humidity climate, especially during the summer months and in areas with condensation from year-round AC use, closets on external walls (like your Deira-facing wall) are prime locations for mold growth due to potential thermal bridging and dampness.

The term "black mold" is non-specific and can refer to several species. While certain types like Stachybotrys chartarum can produce mycotoxins, all indoor mold growth is considered undesirable and a potential health hazard according to UAE health and environmental guidelines. The respiratory symptoms you are both experiencing are a direct and common reaction to inhaling mold spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs).

Cleaning the visible mold on the jumpers yourself is not advised. Disturbing the colony without proper containment and air filtration will aerosolize a high concentration of spores, spreading the contamination throughout the apartment and potentially into your HVAC system. The smell indicates a significant infestation that is likely not superficial; it may be growing within the wall cavity or on the back of the drywall itself.

For a definitive identification of the mold species and to understand the full extent of the contamination, a professional inspection involving air and surface sampling is essential. This will determine the necessary scope of remediation, which must be conducted under containment to protect your living space. I strongly recommend you contact a professional service like Saniservice. Their certified technicians can conduct a comprehensive assessment and execute a safe, effective remediation protocol in full compliance with Dubai Municipality standards.

Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Do not delay, as the problem will only worsen with the ongoing humidity.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 26, 2026 7:38 pm