Could mold in clothes cause my kids' allergies?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold on clothes can absolutely be the cause of your children's persistent coughing and puffy eyes. The symptoms you describe—worse in the mornings and after disturbing stored items—are classic signs of a mold allergy. The damp, earthy smell confirms active microbial growth.

In Dubai's climate, storage rooms are prime locations for mold. High humidity, combined with condensation from temperature fluctuations and lack of airflow, creates a perfect environment for spores to germinate on organic materials like cotton and wool. Disturbing these moldy clothes releases a high concentration of spores and mycotoxins into the air, which are then inhaled, directly irritating the respiratory system and eyes.

This situation requires prompt action. Immediately isolate the affected clothes by sealing them in plastic bags and remove them from the home to prevent further spore dispersal. Do not attempt to shake or vacuum them, as this will aerosolize more particles. For your children's health, a professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the full extent of the contamination within the storage room and the home's air quality. Air testing can identify the specific mold species present and their concentration, which is critical information, as some types are more allergenic than others. Remediation should address not just the visible growth but also the source of the moisture that allowed it to happen.