How to quickly remove black mold from bedroom wall?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's because of this black mold I just found behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It’s the wall that faces the outside and feels a bit damp, probably from the humidity. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it when we were rearranging furniture.
What’s the fastest way to deal with this myself, and at what point should I call the building management?
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The fastest way to remove the mold yourself is to first address the moisture source. In Dubai, this is often condensation from the temperature difference between a cold, air-conditioned room and the humid outside air, especially on external walls. Move the wardrobe away from the wall to allow air circulation.
For cleaning, wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the visible mold off the wall with a mixture of detergent and water. Avoid using bleach, as it doesn't kill the roots and can damage porous surfaces like drywall. After scrubbing, dry the area completely with a fan; moisture left behind will cause it to return quickly. Given that your children are coughing, this is a significant health indicator. Surface cleaning removes the visible growth but not the potential spores released into the room air or any hidden growth inside the wall cavity. If the dampness has penetrated or the wall feels soft, the problem is beyond a surface fix. You should inform building management now. Under Dubai regulations, they are responsible for the building's structural integrity, which includes external wall waterproofing and insulation—common failure points that lead to the dampness you've described. They need to investigate and repair the moisture intrusion from the outside. For health assurance, a professional inspection that includes air quality testing can identify the mold type and spore concentration, which is recommended when occupants, especially children, show symptoms. |
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