How to safely remove mold w/o worsening cough??« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I’m starting to worry. I finally pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Deira apartment and found a huge patch of black mold hidden behind it, probably from a slow AC leak. What’s the safest way to get rid of this ourselves without making their symptoms worse?
Posted by Mark Taylor
Asked on April 25, 2026 1:56 pm
For a patch of significant size, especially with ongoing health symptoms, professional remediation is strongly advised. The process involves containment and removal, not just cleaning, to prevent spores from spreading into your air.

If you choose to proceed yourself, safety is critical. First, move your family, especially the children, to another room and keep the area sealed off. Wear an N95 mask, goggles, and gloves. Open a window for ventilation if possible. Mist the moldy area lightly with water to suppress spores before wiping. Scrub with a mixture of detergent and water, then dry the surface completely. Avoid using bleach, as it doesn't prevent regrowth and its fumes can worsen respiratory irritation.

The most critical step is fixing the source. In Dubai's climate, the constant AC use and high humidity create perfect conditions for mold to return if moisture remains. You must find and repair that AC leak. After cleaning, a dehumidifier in that room can help maintain low humidity.

Given the hidden nature of the growth and the persistent cough, a professional inspection is wise. They can assess the full extent behind walls and confirm the mold type through lab analysis, which is important for understanding potential health impacts. In many Dubai apartments, what's visible is often just a fraction of the total growth.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 28, 2026 3:16 am