Is black mold in closet urgent for kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the last couple of weeks and I’ve just noticed a patch of black spots in the corner of their bedroom closet, behind some boxes. We’re in a villa in Jumeirah and I’m worried it might be spreading because of the humidity. How urgent is it to get a professional mold inspection done here, and should I be taking any immediate steps before they come?
Posted by Camille Fischer
Asked on May 3, 2026 10:45 am
Black spots in a closet combined with a persistent cough in children warrants immediate attention. The high humidity in Dubai, especially in coastal areas like Jumeirah, creates ideal conditions for mold growth, and AC systems can often spread spores throughout a home.

Before a professional inspection, move the children to a different, well-ventilated room. Isolate the affected area by keeping the closet door closed. Do not attempt to disturb or clean the mold yourself, as this can release a large number of spores into the air and exacerbate respiratory issues. Improving ventilation in the room by opening a window, if the outdoor humidity is lower, can help.

A professional inspection is urgent in this scenario. The inspector will identify the mold type—whether it's the commonly found Cladosporium or the more concerning Stachybotrys (so-called "black mold")—and its spread, often using a borescope to check inside walls. This is critical because the visible patch may only be a small part of the problem; moisture from a small leak or condensation can spread mold within wall cavities. Reputable inspectors in the UAE should provide documented lab results from a certified microbiology lab to confirm the species and guide the appropriate remediation protocol, which is essential for resolving a health-related issue like this.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 4, 2026 4:23 pm