Is mold in our wardrobe making my family sick?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and my husband keeps waking up with a stuffy nose. I just pulled out a bag from the back of our built-in wardrobe in the master bedroom and found a bunch of our winter clothes covered in black and green fuzzy spots. We’ve lived in this Jumeirah villa for about five years and I’m terrified this is making us sick. What’s the first step I should take for a proper mold inspection?
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Based on your description, it is very likely the mold in your wardrobe is contributing to your family's symptoms. The persistent coughing and stuffy nose are classic reactions to mold spore exposure, especially in an enclosed space like a bedroom. The first step is to stop the exposure immediately.
Do not attempt to clean the moldy clothes yourself, as this will release a large number of spores into the air. Seal the bag and remove it from the home. For a situation this advanced, with visible growth and clear health symptoms, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. DIY test kits are unreliable and cannot identify the species or the full extent of the problem, which often spreads inside walls or under flooring. A proper inspection in Dubai involves a certified inspector using moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden dampness—the source of the mold—often caused by AC condensation leaks, high humidity, or minor, unnoticed water intrusions common in villas. The most critical part is air and surface sampling sent to an accredited microbiology lab for analysis. This identifies the species (e.g., whether it's the more problematic Stachybotrys or common Aspergillus) and quantifies the spore levels inside your home versus outside, providing the evidence needed for targeted remediation. Given Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use, the wardrobe's exterior wall could be a condensation point, or a leak may exist. Addressing the root cause is the only way to prevent it from returning after cleanup. For verifiable results, ensure any company you hire provides documented lab reports and clear remediation protocols, not just a cleaning service. |
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