Black mold in closet making kids sick? How to remove?« Back to Previous Page

That black patch in a humid closet is a common issue in Dubai and could certainly be contributing to your kids' coughing. The high humidity and condensation from year-round AC use create perfect conditions for mould growth, especially in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces like closets.

For a patch of that size and with health symptoms present, professional remediation is strongly advised to ensure it's handled safely and thoroughly. DIY cleaning with bleach or vinegar often fails to address the root moisture problem and can disturb spores, potentially worsening air quality. Professionals will contain the area, use HEPA filtration to capture spores, and apply specialized biocides to treat the mould you can't see.

To prevent recurrence, the source of moisture must be identified and controlled. In a closet, this is often due to condensation from an exterior wall or high ambient humidity. A dehumidifier or consistently running your AC can help maintain indoor humidity below 60%, which inhibits mould growth. Ensure the closet is not overstuffed to allow for air circulation, and consider leaving the door ajar periodically.

For definitive answers on health risk, a professional inspection with air and surface sampling sent to a microbiology lab can identify the mould species and spore count in the room's air. This data is crucial for peace of mind and verifying the cleanup's effectiveness, especially with persistent respiratory symptoms.