What is the safest way to remove mold with sick kids?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I'm starting to panic. I pulled out the sofa in our Jumeirah villa to find a toy and discovered a huge patch of black mold spreading up the wall behind it, probably from a slow AC leak. The room constantly feels damp. What is the safest and most effective way to handle this, given that my children are already having symptoms?
Posted by Nisha Patel
Asked on April 5, 2026 5:39 am
Given the symptoms your children are exhibiting and the description of a large-scale infestation behind the sofa, this is an immediate health and safety concern that requires professional intervention. In the humid climate of Dubai, where AC systems run year-round, condensation and slow leaks are a primary cause of such mold growth, particularly in areas with poor airflow like behind furniture.

The safest course of action is to isolate the area immediately. Do not attempt to clean the mold yourself with bleach or other household cleaners. Disturbing it will aerosolize the spores, significantly increasing the airborne concentration your family breathes, which can exacerbate respiratory issues like the coughing you've described. For a case of this severity, especially with vulnerable occupants, DIY methods are ineffective and hazardous.

The process must begin with a certified indoor environmental professional conducting a thorough inspection. This will identify the exact species of mold (e.g., toxic black mold Stachybotrys requires more stringent protocols) and the full extent of the contamination, including within the AC system itself, which is likely contaminated.

A professional remediation company like Saniservice follows strict protocols aligned with UAE best practices. The remediation involves: 1) Setting up critical containment barriers and negative air pressure with HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to prevent cross-contamination to other parts of your villa. 2) The safe removal and disposal of porous contaminated materials (e.g., drywall, insulation). 3) HEPA vacuuming and abrasive cleaning of all surfaces. 4) Applying EPA-approved antimicrobial agents to eliminate residual mold roots. 5) A final post-remediation verification test to confirm the environment is safe and healthy for your family.

For the safety of your children, I strongly recommend you contact professionals immediately. Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for an urgent inspection and remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 9:46 pm