Black mold in bathroom causing health issues? Permanent fix?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed black speckles growing along the grout in our windowless bathroom. Lately my throat has been feeling scratchy in the mornings and I'm getting headaches, which I never usually do. I’ve tried wiping it down with bleach, but it comes back within a week. What’s the most effective and permanent way to get rid of this for good, and should I be worried about these health symptoms?
Posted by Susan Thomas
Asked on April 6, 2026 6:25 am
Black mould in a windowless bathroom is very common in Dubai due to the high humidity and lack of ventilation. The persistent scratchy throat and headaches you're experiencing are consistent with mould exposure for many individuals, as spores can irritate the respiratory system.

Bleach only removes surface discolouration on non-porous surfaces but does not kill the root structure of the mould embedded in porous grout, which is why it returns. The most effective permanent fix requires addressing the moisture source. Run the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower. Wipe down all wet surfaces, including walls and shower doors, with a squeegee immediately after use to remove standing water. A dehumidifier can also help measurably reduce ambient humidity in the enclosed space.

For the existing growth, a dedicated EPA-approved mould remover is more effective than bleach. Scrubbing with a stiff brush is necessary to physically dislodge the colonies from the porous grout. If the mould has penetrated deeply, grout replacement may be the only permanent solution.

Given that your health symptoms have appeared and the mould recurs despite cleaning, a professional inspection is advisable. They can identify if there's a hidden moisture issue within the walls and perform air or surface sampling to confirm the mould type and concentration. This is the most reliable way to determine if the specific mould in your home is linked to your symptoms and to guide an effective remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 1:19 am