Is the mold under my window making my child sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold under your window is very likely contributing to your child's persistent runny nose and cough. Mold releases spores and microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) that are known irritants, particularly for children whose respiratory systems are still developing. The symptoms you describe—a prolonged cough and congestion—are classic signs of mold exposure.

In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. Built-in storage against an external wall is a prime spot for condensation to form, especially with our high humidity and constant AC use creating temperature differentials. The wall behind the toys likely became damp from this condensation, creating the perfect environment for mold to feed on the dust and organic material.

For your family's safety, do not attempt to clean significant growth yourself, especially with children present. Disturbing it will release a large number of spores into the air, potentially worsening the situation. The first step is a professional inspection to identify the moisture source—it could be condensation, a tiny leak, or capillary action from the outside. They will also identify the mold species, as some types are more problematic than others.

A proper remediation plan for a case like this involves containment of the area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent spores from spreading to the rest of your home during the removal process. The affected materials must be carefully removed and disposed of, followed by a thorough cleaning of the area with HEPA filtration and antimicrobial agents.

Until a professional can assess, keep the children out of that room, remove any toys or items that were stored there, and ensure good ventilation. Addressing the root cause of the moisture is critical; otherwise, the mold will simply return.