Could closet mold be causing my toddler's cough?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet, which is on an interior wall, has had a persistent damp smell since the humidity really spiked a couple of months ago. I've just pulled out our winter clothes and found a bunch of my husband's jackets and a few of my handbags with patches of black and green fuzzy mold. My two-year-old sleeps in our room and has had a runny nose and a nagging cough that just won't go away. Could this mold in the closet be the reason for my toddler's ongoing respiratory issues, and what's the safest way to clean it without making the spores spread into the room?
Posted by Carlos Richard
Asked on March 31, 2026 11:09 am
Based on my professional experience in mold inspection and remediation here in Dubai, it is highly probable that the mold in your closet is contributing to your toddler's persistent respiratory issues. The symptoms you describe—a runny nose and a nagging cough—are classic indicators of mold exposure, particularly in young children whose immune and respiratory systems are still developing.

The UAE's climate, characterized by extreme humidity and year-round reliance on air conditioning, creates a perfect environment for mold growth, especially in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces like interior closets. The damp smell you noticed is a clear sign of elevated moisture, likely from condensation or a slight shift in the building's pressure envelope. The black and green fuzzy patches are likely Cladosporium or Aspergillus species, both of which are known respiratory irritants and can trigger allergic reactions and coughing.

Attempting to clean this yourself is not recommended. Disturbing the mold by brushing or wiping will aerosolize the spores, significantly increasing their concentration in the air your family breathes and spreading the contamination throughout the bedroom. This could acutely worsen your toddler's symptoms.

For the health of your family, a professional inspection is critical. We use specialized equipment like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the exact moisture source, and air and surface sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels. This data is essential for a safe and effective remediation plan, conducted under containment to prevent cross-contamination.

Do not delay in addressing this. I strongly recommend you contact our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our certified technicians will ensure the mold is removed safely and the underlying moisture issue is resolved to protect your family's health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 5:49 am