Could black mold from storage be causing our persistent coughs?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, the presence of fuzzy black spots and a persistent damp, earthy smell is a strong indicator of active mold growth, likely from the genus Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold") or Aspergillus. The persistent cough and runny noses in your family are indeed consistent with mold exposure symptoms, which can include upper respiratory tract irritation, allergic reactions, and exacerbation of asthma.

The storage cupboard under the stairs is a classic problem area in Dubai. The climate forces us to run air conditioning year-round, which can create significant temperature differentials between cool rooms and warmer, confined spaces. This leads to condensation, a primary source of moisture. When combined with organic materials like cotton, leather, and dust, it creates the perfect environment for mold proliferation.

Your first action should be to isolate the area. Do not attempt to clean the moldy items with conventional cleaning products, as this can aerosolize spores and worsen the contamination. The cupboard should be sealed off from the rest of the home, and you should avoid disturbing the mold.

For proper remediation, the affected porous materials (clothing, shoes, cardboard boxes) are often unsalvageable and must be carefully bagged and discarded. The underlying cause of the moisture must be identified and resolved; this could be due to condensation, a hidden pipe leak, or humidity ingress. Surface cleaning alone is insufficient and potentially hazardous.

Given the health symptoms and visible growth, I strongly recommend a professional inspection and assessment. Our certified team at Saniservice uses moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air quality testing to identify the full extent of the contamination and the moisture source, in full compliance with Dubai Municipality's public health and safety guidelines. We then execute a controlled remediation process to ensure the mold is safely removed and the air quality is restored. For immediate advice and to schedule an inspection, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.