Could mold in closet cause my kids' constant coughing?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold in a closet can absolutely be the cause of your children's persistent coughing. The damp wall and fuzzy black spots are clear indicators of an active mold colony, and the constant exposure to its spores in the air is a common irritant to the respiratory system.

In Dubai's climate, this is a frequent issue. The high humidity, especially during summer months, provides the perfect environment for mold growth. This is often exacerbated in closets on exterior walls, where temperature differences between the air-conditioned room and the outside heat can cause condensation to form inside the wall cavity, creating a hidden, damp environment mold thrives in.

Your first step is to isolate the area. Keep the closet closed and restrict your children's access to that room to minimize their exposure. Do not attempt to clean the mold yourself with bleach or by scrubbing, as this can aerosolize a massive amount of spores and make the air quality worse. The dampness in the wall suggests the problem is likely inside the wall cavity, which requires professional assessment.

You need a certified mold inspector to identify the moisture source—whether it's a internal condensation issue or a potential leak—and determine the extent of the growth. They will use moisture meters and often recommend air or surface sampling to be analyzed by a microbiology lab. This identifies the species present, which is critical for understanding the health risk and planning the proper remediation strategy. Proper remediation involves containing the area, removing the contaminated materials like drywall, and addressing the root moisture problem to prevent it from returning.