Is mold behind wardrobe causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past two weeks and I just found a patch of black and green fuzzy stuff behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We’ve lived in this villa in Jumeirah for 2 years and just noticed it, and I’m panicking a bit. How urgently do I need to get a professional mold removal company involved here, or is this something I can handle myself with a bleach solution this weekend?
Posted by Aarti Singh
Asked on March 22, 2026 5:28 am
Based on the symptoms you describe and the visual confirmation of growth, it is highly probable that the mold behind the wardrobe is a contributing factor to your children's persistent cough. The fuzzy black and green appearance strongly suggests active colonization, likely by species such as Aspergillus or Penicillium, which are known respiratory irritants and common in our region.

The Dubai climate creates a perfect environment for this issue. Year-round air conditioning leads to significant condensation in hidden, poorly ventilated spaces like behind large furniture. This constant moisture, combined with organic materials in the wall or dust, facilitates robust mold growth. Attempting a DIY bleach solution is not recommended. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces, only bleaching the visible pigment while leaving the root structure intact. More critically, it can agitate the colony, aerosolizing a high concentration of spores and mycotoxins into your bedroom air, potentially exacerbating your family's respiratory symptoms.

This situation warrants immediate professional attention. The combination of confirmed growth and correlating health effects moves this from a simple cleaning task to an indoor air quality and health concern. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the specific species and concentration levels, assess the full extent of the infestation (which often spreads behind walls), and identify the precise moisture source to prevent recurrence.

For a comprehensive inspection and safe, guaranteed remediation that complies with Dubai Municipality's hygiene standards, I strongly advise you to contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an assessment. Do not disturb the area until a professional evaluation is complete.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 1:53 pm