Could our mold cause symptoms and can we clean it?« Back to Previous Page

Black mold in a closet, especially in a humid climate like Dubai's, is a likely cause of the persistent sinus and eye irritation you're both experiencing. The constant air conditioning can create cold surfaces where condensation forms, providing the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive unnoticed.

For a patch larger than one square meter, which this sounds like, professional assessment is strongly recommended. Disturbing it yourself can aerosolize spores, spreading them through your AC system and potentially worsening your symptoms. A professional inspection will identify the moisture source—often a small leak in the AC condensation line or seepage through an external wall—and the mold species to confirm the health risk.

If you choose to clean a smaller area yourself, strict precautions are essential. Wear an N95 mask, goggles, and gloves. Scrub with a dedicated mold cleaner or a solution of white vinegar and water, never bleach, as it only removes the colour and not the root structure. Contain the area with plastic sheeting and ensure strong ventilation. However, given the duration of growth and your ongoing health issues, a professional remediation that includes containment, HEPA vacuuming, and addressing the underlying moisture issue is the most reliable way to resolve it and prevent recurrence.