How to quickly and safely remove mold near my toddler?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my apartment in Jumeirah Village Circle has been leaking a little for a couple of weeks, and now I've just found a patch of black and green mold behind the sofa that was against the wall. I’m really worried because my toddler has had a runny nose and a cough that just won’t go away. What’s the fastest and safest way to deal with this to protect my family's health?
Posted by Wei Choi
Asked on April 24, 2026 4:45 pm
The fastest initial step is to isolate the area. Move the sofa and any other items away from the mold patch. For a small area (under one square meter), a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach mixture (one part bleach to ten parts water) can be effective. Apply it with a spray bottle, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush and wipe clean. Ensure the room is extremely well-ventilated during this process; open all windows and use a fan. Your toddler and any family members with respiratory sensitivities should not be in the apartment until the area is completely dry and the smell has dissipated.

Given the AC leak is the moisture source, this is a critical fix. In Dubai's climate, any persistent dampness from condensation or leaks will cause mold to return rapidly. You must have an HVAC technician repair the leak and drain line immediately. Simply cleaning the mold without stopping the water is a temporary solution.

With a toddler showing persistent respiratory symptoms, the safest course is a professional assessment. The visible patch may only be a fraction of the growth, as mold can spread inside wall cavities from a leak. A proper inspection with a borescope can check inside the walls, and air quality testing can identify spore types and concentrations. This data is crucial for understanding the health risk and ensuring remediation is complete. For any mold issue exceeding one square meter, or originating from contaminated AC systems, Dubai Municipality guidelines strongly recommend engaging certified professionals to prevent cross-contamination and ensure safe removal.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 26, 2026 5:53 pm