Can mold from bathroom tiles make kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell and some dark spots forming on the bathroom tiles near the shower. My kids have been complaining of coughs and runny noses, which leads me to suspect it might be mold-related. Could this really be causing their symptoms? What should I do about it?
Posted by Linda Lewis
Asked on January 28, 2026 9:30 am
Absolutely, mold from bathroom tiles can indeed make your kids sick. The scenario you've described is quite common post-heavy rainfalls and high humidity periods. In the UAE, particularly during the monsoon season, such conditions are more likely to create ideal environments for molds to thrive.

In Dubai, it's not uncommon to see an increase in mold growth following heavy rains, especially in bathrooms which often have poor ventilation or inadequate drainage systems. The dark spots you've noticed on your bathroom tiles could be indicative of mold colonies, and the musty smell is a clear sign that these areas are affected by moisture.

Molds produce allergens, irritants, and in some cases, toxic substances called mycotoxins, which can lead to adverse health effects. For children, who often have weaker immune systems compared to adults, exposure to mold can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions or trigger new ones like coughs, runny noses, and even asthma symptoms.

The UAE's Health Regulations 2018, specifically Article 46 on Indoor Air Quality, emphasize the importance of maintaining clean environments free from biological contaminants such as molds. Failure to address mold issues promptly can lead to violations in property inspections and maintenance checks.

Given your situation, it is highly recommended that you seek a professional inspection by calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com for expert assessment. They will conduct thorough sampling to identify the types of molds present and assess their potential health risks. Depending on the findings, they may recommend dehumidification, improved ventilation, mold remediation techniques such as scraping and painting over affected areas, or even complete removal and replacement of severely contaminated materials.

In addition to professional assistance, there are some immediate steps you can take:
1. Increase air circulation by opening windows when possible.
2. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the bathroom.
3. Clean surfaces with a solution of water and bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to kill mold spores.
4. Ensure proper drainage around your home, especially outside shower areas.

Remember, addressing mold issues promptly can prevent long-term health impacts on your family, particularly your children.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 29, 2026 6:13 pm