Can high humidity cause kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the bedroom on the second floor of our villa. The dehumidifier we bought seems to struggle to keep up with the humidity levels, even when it's running 24/7. My kids have been coughing more than usual, and I'm worried it might be due to the dampness. Do you think I can handle fixing this myself, or should I call in a professional?
Posted by Anthony Jones
Asked on January 18, 2026 12:57 am
High humidity levels can indeed contribute to respiratory issues and coughs among children. In the UAE context, particularly in Dubai, where climate conditions can be quite humid due to both seasonal changes and the use of air conditioning systems, maintaining optimal indoor environmental quality is crucial.

When considering your situation with a persistent musty smell and an increase in kids' coughing, it's important to recognize that high humidity levels can foster the growth of mold and other allergens. Mold spores thrive in environments where moisture content exceeds 60%, which makes areas like bedrooms susceptible to dampness issues, especially if they are on higher floors where cooler air may settle.

Given your observations about the dehumidifier's performance, it might be challenging to keep humidity levels within a healthy range without professional assistance. The UAE Building Code and the Dubai Municipality Guidelines recommend maintaining relative humidity between 40% - 60%. Your current environment appears to exceed this threshold significantly, given the musty smell and increased coughing.

While you can take initial steps such as using dehumidifiers, ensuring proper ventilation, and addressing any water leaks or sources of moisture, these actions may not be sufficient in your case. The persistent nature of the issue suggests that a professional inspection might be necessary to identify underlying causes such as hidden water damage or inadequate insulation.

It's also advisable to monitor indoor air quality by using an electronic humidity meter regularly. These tools can provide real-time data on humidity levels and help you track changes over time.

In conclusion, while some basic steps can be taken at home, the current situation seems to require a professional assessment. For immediate assistance or further guidance, please consider calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com for expert advice and remediation services tailored to Dubai's specific climate conditions.

Remember, addressing these issues early can prevent long-term health impacts on your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 19, 2026 9:17 am