Mold in bedroom causing cough: DIY or professional help?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it’s from the mold that’s been growing in the corner of our master bedroom in Jumeirah. It started as a small patch after the heavy dew last month but has now spread along the entire wall. I’ve tried wiping it with vinegar, but it just comes back darker. Is this something I can tackle myself with a stronger cleaner, or do I need to call a professional company to get it properly treated?
Posted by Dina Habib
Asked on April 29, 2026 8:01 pm
Mold causing respiratory symptoms like coughing in children warrants immediate attention. Given the recurrence after a DIY attempt and its spread along the entire wall, this is a case for professional assessment. The root cause is likely persistent moisture trapped within the wall cavity, which vinegar or surface cleaners cannot address.

In Dubai’s climate, this is a common issue. The high outdoor humidity, combined with cold spots from air conditioning, creates significant condensation within walls, especially in older Jumeirah villas. This hidden moisture allows mold to thrive behind the surface. Wiping it away only temporarily removes the visible spores while the colony continues to grow unseen.

A professional inspection is needed to identify the moisture source, which could be a thermal bridge, a minor leak, or inadequate insulation. They will use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the wall’s interior. Remediation involves containing the area, safely removing contaminated materials, and using HEPA filtration to clear the air of spores. Crucially, they must rectify the moisture issue to prevent rapid regrowth.

For your children’s health, I would not recommend further DIY. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize a high concentration of spores, potentially worsening their cough. A reputable company will provide a clear protocol and can often verify the air quality is safe post-remediation with lab testing.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 2, 2026 1:32 am