Can I safely clean this mold myself for my coughing kids?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop since the weather turned humid last month, and I just found a patch of black and green spots in the corner of their bedroom closet where I store their winter clothes. I'm really worried it's making them sick, but I'm not sure if it's something I can handle myself or if I need to call a professional. What's the safest and most effective way to clean this mold myself without risking my family's health?
Posted by Takeshi Kim
Asked on March 23, 2026 10:02 am
Based on the symptoms you're describing—persistent coughing coinciding with humid weather and visible mold growth—this is a situation that requires immediate and careful attention. While small, isolated patches can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, the fact that your children are already exhibiting health symptoms is a significant red flag.

For a patch smaller than one square meter (about the size of a standard A3 paper), you can attempt careful cleaning. However, the UAE's high humidity, especially now, means the root cause (excess moisture) is likely still present. You MUST wear an N95 mask, nitrile gloves, and eye protection. Do not let your children in the room during cleaning. Scrub the area with a dedicated microfibre cloth and a solution of detergent and warm water. Avoid bleach, as it doesn't kill the roots and can release harmful fumes in enclosed spaces. After cleaning, the area must be dried completely within 24-48 hours using a dehumidifier to prevent immediate regrowth.

However, I strongly advise against a full DIY approach here. The correlation with your kids' health means spores are already airborne. What you see on the surface is often just the "fruit" of a larger hidden problem within the wall or behind the closet. Proper remediation requires containment, professional-grade HEPA air scrubbing to capture airborne spores, and antimicrobial treatment to prevent recurrence.

For the safety of your family, a professional inspection is not just recommended; it's essential. We can identify the moisture source and the full extent of contamination. Please, give us a call for a certified assessment. We can advise on the next steps.

Call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 to schedule an inspection, or email hello@saniservice.com. Your children's health isnt worth the risk.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 4:02 pm