Could moldy winter clothes cause my kids' long-term sickness?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth on the stored clothing is a significant contributor to your children's persistent respiratory symptoms, namely the runny nose and chronic cough. The black spots are likely a form of mold, and the damp, earthy smell is a clear indicator of microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) being released, which are known respiratory irritants.

In the UAE's climate, the combination of high ambient humidity and the condensation that can form within sealed storage spaces, especially when coupled with year-round air conditioning creating temperature differentials, creates an ideal environment for mold proliferation. Textiles like wool and cotton are organic materials that provide a perfect food source for mold spores.

Attempting to clean this yourself is not advised. Disturbing the moldy materials will aerosolize a high concentration of spores and mycotoxins throughout your home's living spaces, potentially exacerbating the health issues and contaminating other areas. Standard household cleaning is insufficient to remediate the source or address airborne contamination.

This situation requires professional assessment and remediation. We must determine the extent of growth within the cupboard structure itself, which is likely if clothing is affected. Our certified inspectors conduct thorough assessments, including air quality sampling, to identify the species and concentration levels, which is crucial for understanding the health impact.

For the safety of your family, I strongly recommend a professional inspection and hygienization process. Please contact our team for an immediate assessment. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice specializes in resolving such issues safely and in compliance with Dubai Municipality's public health and environmental standards.