Is mold behind dresser urgent to treat professionally?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the mold I just found behind our bedroom dresser in our Marina apartment. It's been so humid lately and I noticed a small damp patch on the wall after we ran the AC non-stop last week. How urgent is it that I get this professionally treated, or can I handle it myself with bleach?
Posted by Emily Martinez
Asked on May 10, 2026 1:20 am
Yes, this is urgent to treat professionally. In Dubai's climate, that hidden mold is likely the tip of an iceberg. The high humidity and constant AC use create perfect conditions for mold growth inside wall cavities, especially when a damp patch is visible. The coughing you're hearing is a significant indicator that spores are already airborne in the room.

While small surface mold can sometimes be cleaned with a vinegar solution (bleach only bleaches it and doesn't kill the roots), your situation has clear red flags: a moisture source and health symptoms. Disturbing it yourself with improper cleaning can aerosolize a massive amount of spores, potentially making your children's reactions worse.

A professional inspection is critical here. They will use moisture meters and borescopes to assess the extent of the damage within the wall and identify the source of the dampness—often condensation from an AC line or a breach in the building envelope. Remediation isn't just wiping the wall; it involves containing the area, removing contaminated materials like drywall or insulation, and using HEPA filtration to clean the air. For health-related cases with visible growth and symptoms, Dubai Municipality guidelines strongly recommend professional assessment to ensure it is resolved safely and completely.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 10, 2026 3:23 pm