How to remove mold and check for child allergies?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past two weeks and I'm starting to panic. I just pulled out some winter clothes from the storage cupboard under the stairs and found a bunch of them covered in black spots. With the humidity lately, I'm worried the whole house is affected. What's the most effective way to deal with mold in a storage area and how can I tell if it's the cause of their allergies?
Posted by Dieter Visser
Asked on April 15, 2026 2:15 am
Based on your description, this is a serious situation that warrants immediate professional attention. The black spots on the clothing are a clear visual indicator of active mold growth, which is unfortunately common in Dubai's storage areas due to the high humidity levels and condensation issues from year-round AC use. The confined, dark, and poorly ventilated space under the stairs provides an ideal breeding ground.

The most effective remediation for a contaminated storage area is a multi-step process. Firstly, the area must be isolated to prevent cross-contamination. All affected porous materials, like the clothing, should be carefully bagged and disposed of, as the mold roots (hyphae) penetrate deep into the fibers, making them impossible to fully sanitize. Non-porous surfaces require aggressive cleaning with EPA-approved, fungicidal solutions, not just bleach, which only removes surface discoloration. Crucially, the source of moisture must be identified and resolved; this could be a plumbing leak, condensation from an AC duct, or simply humid air permeating the space. A dehumidifier is essential to bring the relative humidity below 60% to prevent recurrence.

Regarding your children's health, the timing of the cough coinciding with the mold discovery is highly suggestive. Mold spores are a known respiratory irritant and allergen. The only way to conclusively determine if mold is the cause is through two parallel actions: a professional indoor air quality (IAQA) inspection and a medical consultation. Our certified inspectors use air and surface sampling to identify the species and concentration of mold spores in your living environment. This data is critical for your pediatrician or an allergist, who can then perform specific tests (like skin prick or blood tests for mold-specific IgE antibodies) to confirm an allergic response.

Given the potential health risks and the complexity of proper remediation, I strongly recommend you do not attempt to handle this yourself. Our team at Saniservice is equipped with the technical expertise, advanced containment equipment, and UAE-approved protocols to safely inspect, test, and remediate the issue. Please call us immediately at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 17, 2026 6:57 pm