Is moldy clothing causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

It's very possible the mold is contributing to their cough. In Dubai's high humidity, mold spores thrive, and clothing stored in a dark, confined space like a closet is a prime target. The black fuzzy growth and musty smell confirm an active colony, which releases spores and mycotoxins into the air that are respiratory irritants, especially for children.

The safest initial step is to isolate the problem. Seal the moldy items in plastic bags and remove them from the home to prevent spore spread. Do not attempt to shake or vacuum the clothes, as this will aerosolize the spores and likely worsen their coughing. For health safety, heavily infested porous items like jackets are often best discarded.

For items you wish to salvage, sun exposure is a powerful, natural disinfectant. The UAE sun can kill surface mold. Brush the dry mold outdoors, then wash the clothing with hot water and a mold-killing additive like white vinegar or baking soda. However, this only addresses the visible problem.

The closet itself is the larger concern. That smell indicates mold growth on the walls, ceiling, or stored items you haven't found yet. This hidden reservoir will continue to release spores into your home's air. A professional inspection with moisture meters and air sampling is the most reliable way to identify the full extent of the contamination and its root cause, which is often condensation from AC ducts or a minor, unnoticed leak.

Given the children's persistent symptoms, consulting a doctor is also advised to rule out other triggers and address their current respiratory irritation.