Is this black mold making my kids cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it might be from the black spots I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it when I was rearranging the room. The wall feels slightly damp to the touch and the area doesn't get much sunlight. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach or do I need to call a professional company to deal with it?
Posted by Betty Lee
Asked on March 22, 2026 8:13 pm
Based on your description, there is a high probability that the black spots you've found are indeed mold, and it is very plausible that it is contributing to your children's coughing. The combination of visible black microbial growth, a damp wall, poor air circulation, and lack of sunlight behind the wardrobe creates a classic environment for mold proliferation, which is unfortunately common in Dubai due to our high humidity levels and constant air conditioning use, which can lead to condensation issues.

Attempting to clean this yourself with bleach is not recommended. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and concrete; it only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact, allowing it to regrow quickly. More critically, disturbing the mold during cleaning without proper containment can aerosolize a massive amount of spores and mycotoxins, significantly worsening the indoor air quality and potentially intensifying respiratory symptoms like coughing.

For a situation involving persistent dampness, visible growth, and associated health effects, a professional inspection is absolutely warranted. Our certified inspectors will conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping to find the water source and air/o-surface sampling to identify the specific mold species (e.g., Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly called "black mold," or others like Aspergillus) and its concentration levels. This data is crucial for designing an effective remediation plan that addresses the root cause, not just the visible symptoms, in full compliance with Dubai Municipality's public health and environmental standards.

Do not risk your family's health with DIY methods. For a definitive diagnosis and a permanent solution, please contact our team for a comprehensive inspection. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an appointment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 2:57 am