Could this mold cause my kids' cough, and can I clean it?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the black mould behind your wardrobe is very likely the cause of your children's persistent coughing. The damp, earthy smell confirms active growth, and mould spores are known respiratory irritants, especially for children.

In Dubai's climate, this scenario is common. Year-round AC use leads to condensation, and hidden leaks create the perfect damp, dark environment for mould to thrive unseen.

For a patch larger than one square meter, or because the source is a suspected AC leak, professional remediation is strongly advised. Disturbing it yourself risks releasing a large cloud of spores throughout your home, potentially worsening the issue. Professionals use containment barriers, HEPA filtration, and specialized antimicrobials to treat the source and the airborne spores safely.

The critical first step is identifying and fixing the moisture source—likely a clogged AC drain line or a leak in the unit—otherwise, the mould will return quickly. A certified inspector can use moisture meters to pinpoint the exact leak and a lab analysis to identify the mould species, which determines the precise remediation protocol.

Until it's handled, keep the children out of that room and improve airflow by running exhaust fans. Do not attempt to clean it with bleach, as it only removes the colour and can add moisture, fuelling further growth.