Should I clean mold myself or call maintenance for kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

With children coughing, this requires a careful approach. For a small, contained area like behind a toilet, you can attempt to clean it yourself. Use a dedicated fungicidal cleaner or a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water. For grout, a paste of baking soda and water can be effective. Scrub thoroughly, wear an N95 mask and gloves, and ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated during and after cleaning.

However, given the symptoms and the humid conditions in a Marina apartment, the visible mold is likely just the tip of the issue. The high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold growth within wall cavities or under flooring where condensation accumulates. If the mold returns quickly after cleaning, has a strong musty odor, or covers an area larger than a square meter, it’s time to call for professional assessment.

Building maintenance should be your first call for any mold originating from a potential leak in the plumbing or building envelope, as that is their responsibility to fix. For health concerns and to identify the exact mold type, a professional inspection with air and surface sampling is recommended. A certified inspector can identify the species and the source of the moisture, which is crucial for a permanent solution and for understanding any potential health impacts on your family.