What's the fastest way to remove mold for family's health?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and sneezing non-stop for the past couple of weeks, and I’m starting to panic. I just pulled back the silicone sealant around our Deira apartment’s bathtub and found a ton of black, fuzzy mold growing underneath it. The bathroom doesn't have a window and the smell is really musty, especially after the kids take a shower. What’s the fastest and safest way to clean this up to protect my family’s health?
Posted by Ghada Haddad
Asked on April 9, 2026 1:55 am
Black mold growth under silicone sealant in a windowless bathroom is a very common and serious issue in Dubai due to the high humidity and constant condensation from showers. For immediate family health, the fastest initial step is to address the moisture and visible growth yourself, but a professional assessment is strongly advised given the symptoms you've described.

Start by improving ventilation. Run the bathroom exhaust fan during and for at least 30 minutes after every shower. Keep the bathroom door open when not in use to reduce stagnant, humid air. For the visible mold on non-porous surfaces like tiles, a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach cleaner (ensure the room is well-ventilated and wear a mask and gloves) can remove the surface growth. However, if the mold has penetrated behind the sealant or into grout, cleaning the surface is only a temporary fix.

The musty smell and hidden growth you found indicate a deeper problem. Mold spores released into the air are a likely cause of the persistent coughing and sneezing. The only permanent solution is to physically remove the contaminated silicone sealant and any compromised grout, thoroughly disinfect the area, and apply new, high-quality sealant. This process requires specific techniques to prevent cross-contamination.

Given your children's respiratory symptoms, a professional inspection is recommended to assess the full extent. They can perform air quality testing to identify spore types and concentrations, which is crucial for determining the correct remediation approach. In many cases, containing the area during removal is necessary to prevent spreading spores throughout your apartment. Look for providers who can offer before-and-after testing to verify the environment has been returned to a healthy state.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 12:54 pm