How to safely remove mold and prevent dampness in Mirdif?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing at night for the past couple of weeks, and I just found patches of black mold behind their bedroom dresser, which is on an exterior wall in our villa in Mirdif. We had that heavier than usual rain last month and I'm worried the moisture got in. What's the best way to clean this safely and who should I call to check for dampness in the walls to stop it from coming back?
Posted by Piotr Robert
Asked on May 19, 2026 7:37 pm
First, address the immediate health concern. Move your children to another room until the mold is properly remediated. Nighttime coughing in children is a common reaction to mold exposure, particularly in humid climates like Dubai's where AC systems can circulate spores.

For the visible mold on the wall, do not dry scrub or use bleach, as this can aerosolize spores. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and eye protection. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water or a dedicated mold cleaner. Scrub the area thoroughly, then dry it completely with a fan. Dispose of any cleaning cloths used.

The critical step is addressing the source. The dampness behind the dresser on an exterior wall strongly suggests moisture intrusion, likely from the recent heavy rains. This is a common issue in villas. The moisture needs to be traced and sealed, otherwise the mold will return.

You need two types of professionals. First, a building or dampness surveyor should inspect the exterior wall and roof for leaks or compromised waterproofing. They can identify the entry point and recommend repairs. Second, for the mold itself, a professional remediation company with experience in the UAE climate should be engaged. They will use containment, HEPA filtration, and specialized cleaning protocols to safely remove all traces, not just the visible growth. A company with its own microbiology lab can provide post-remediation verification testing to confirm the space is truly safe before your children return.

To prevent recurrence, keep furniture a few inches away from exterior walls to allow air circulation. Consider using a dehumidifier in the room, especially during the more humid winter months, to maintain humidity below 60%.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 22, 2026 6:24 am