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

Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth behind the wardrobe is contributing to your children's respiratory symptoms, such as coughing. The dark patch is likely Stachybotrys chartarum, commonly referred to as black mold, which produces mycotoxins that are particularly irritating to the respiratory tract, especially in children.

The recent humidity in Dubai is a key factor. Our climate, combined with year-round AC use, creates significant condensation issues. The wall behind a large piece of furniture like a wardrobe is a classic problem area. It has poor air circulation, allowing cool interior surfaces to meet warm, humid air, which leads to condensation and creates the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive, completely hidden from view.

For a small patch (less than one square meter), you may carefully clean it yourself. However, extreme caution is advised. You must wear an N95 mask, nitrile gloves, and eye protection. Scrub the area with a detergent solution, never with bleach which can exacerbate the problem. But note: cleaning only addresses the visible growth, not the root cause or any hidden contamination within the wall.

Given the health symptoms and the concealed nature of the growth, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize the spores and spread them throughout your apartment, worsening the air quality. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras, and air quality tests to identify the exact moisture source and the full extent of the contamination, which is almost always larger than what is visible.

Effective, permanent remediation requires addressing the humidity source, professionally removing the contaminated materials, and applying antimicrobial solutions. For a comprehensive inspection and a guaranteed remediation plan, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.