Is mold behind my wardrobe a health risk for kids?« Back to Previous Page

Our family villa in Jumeirah has a persistent damp smell in the upstairs bedrooms, especially after running the AC all day. I just pulled back the corner of the wardrobe and found a patch of black and green fuzzy mold on the wall behind it. With the humidity lately, I'm worried it's spreading quickly behind the walls. How urgent is it that I get a professional to deal with this, and is it a health risk for my kids sleeping in that room?
Posted by Giovanni Torres
Asked on April 16, 2026 6:20 am
The mold behind your wardrobe is a health concern, especially for children, as their developing respiratory systems are more vulnerable. The species commonly found in such damp indoor environments in Dubai can cause allergic reactions, persistent coughing, wheezing, and sinus congestion. It’s important to address this promptly.

Given the persistent damp smell and visible growth in your Jumeirah villa, this is an urgent matter. The UAE's high humidity and constant AC use create ideal conditions for mold to spread quickly inside wall cavities, often making the visible patch just a small indicator of a larger problem. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as improper disturbance can release a large number of spores into the air and worsen the situation.

You need a professional inspection. A certified inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to determine the full extent of the hidden growth and identify the moisture source, which is often condensation from AC ducts or a small leak. For health safety, I would recommend temporarily moving your kids to another room until the inspection is complete and the air quality is assessed. The remediation process itself involves containment of the area, safe removal of contaminated materials, and addressing the root moisture issue to prevent recurrence. Verifying the company’s methodology and asking for post-remediation verification testing are crucial steps to ensure the problem is fully resolved.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 17, 2026 2:44 am