Are the black spots behind my wardrobe mold?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, those black spots are almost certainly mold. In Dubai's climate, especially in coastal areas like the Marina with high humidity, mold growth behind furniture is common. The damp wall suggests an ongoing moisture issue, which mold requires to thrive.

Your children's coughing could be related, as mold spores are a known respiratory irritant. The first step is to identify and stop the moisture source. In apartments, this is often condensation from an AC unit's cold air hitting the warmer wall, a leaking pipe within the wall, or seepage from an external wall. Simply cleaning the visible mold will not solve the problem if the dampness persists.

For a small area, you can carefully clean it yourself with a vinegar solution or a specialized mold cleaner, wearing an N95 mask and gloves. However, given that it's spreading and the wall is damp, a DIY approach is a temporary fix. The moisture source needs professional diagnosis.

You should call a certified mold inspector or a reputable indoor environmental professional. They use tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras to locate the exact source of the water intrusion without unnecessary demolition. In many cases, the building's maintenance or facility management team should also be notified, as the leak could originate from a common area or a faulty external sealant, which is the building's responsibility to fix.

Once the source is repaired and the area is fully dry, proper remediation by a trained technician can remove the mold and treat the area to prevent regrowth. For health concerns, always consult a medical professional.