How to safely clean black mould from kids' bedroom?« Back to Previous Page

The safest approach is to first identify the mould type, as some black moulds can be more problematic than others. For a small patch (under one square foot), you can clean it yourself with care. For anything larger, or if the mould has penetrated porous materials like drywall, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the extent and type.

Begin by isolating the area. Keep your children and pets out of the room during the entire process. Open a window for ventilation if possible and seal off the room from the rest of the house by closing the door. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and protective eyewear to avoid inhaling spores or getting them on your skin.

Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water in a spray bottle. Avoid using bleach, as it only removes the colour and can release harmful fumes, especially in a poorly ventilated space. Lightly spray the mouldy area to dampen the spores and prevent them from becoming airborne during scrubbing.

Gently scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush, then wipe it clean with disposable cloths. Place all used cleaning materials in a sealed plastic bag for disposal. After cleaning, use a HEPA-filter vacuum around the immediate area to capture any stray spores and wipe all surfaces down with a damp cloth.

The root cause is excess moisture. In Jumeirah villas, this is often due to condensation from AC units set too cold meeting the humid outdoor air, creating dampness on colder exterior walls behind furniture and curtains. To prevent recurrence, improve air circulation by moving the bed and curtains away from the wall, ensure your AC is serviced and draining properly, and consider using a dehumidifier. If the coughing persists after cleaning, a professional assessment can identify if mould is present in the AC system or hidden wall cavities.