Black mold behind wardrobe causing coughs? Remove myself?« Back to Previous Page

The damp patch and coughs are a strong indicator of a mold issue that needs immediate attention. Given the size and the fact it's behind furniture where airflow is restricted, this is a significant growth.

For a patch that large and with health symptoms present, professional assessment is strongly recommended. The dampness suggests an ongoing moisture issue, which must be identified and resolved first; otherwise, the mold will return. In Dubai's high humidity, this is often condensation from cold walls meeting warm air or a hidden plumbing leak. A professional inspection can pinpoint the moisture source and assess if the mold has penetrated the wallboard, which is common here.

DIY removal is only advised for very small, surface-level patches. For this, wear an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles. Isolate the area with plastic sheeting. Scrub with a detergent solution, not bleach, as bleach does not kill mold roots and can worsen airborne spores. However, cleaning the surface may not address the root cause or hidden growth inside the wall.

The coughing in your children is a legitimate health concern. Disturbing the mold during DIY attempts can release a high concentration of spores into the bedroom air, potentially worsening respiratory symptoms. A reputable local company with microbiological testing can identify the species and provide a protocol that includes containment, safe removal, and addressing the moisture source to prevent recurrence.