Could mold in my wardrobe be causing our cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mould in your wardrobe could absolutely be the cause of your family's persistent cough. The fuzzy black spots and damp smell are classic signs of a mould colony, which thrives in the humid, stagnant air of enclosed storage spaces here in Dubai. When disturbed, these colonies release microscopic spores and mycotoxins into the air you breathe, which are common irritants known to trigger coughing, wheezing, and allergy-like symptoms, especially in children.

The DEWA room, often warm and humid, is a prime location for condensation to form on cooler surfaces, providing the perfect breeding ground for mould, particularly on organic materials like cotton and leather. You are not overreacting; this is a legitimate indoor air quality concern that requires immediate action.

First, stop using that storage area and keep the wardrobe closed to contain the spores. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and exacerbate the problem. For a small, visible patch, a HEPA vacuum and a solution of white vinegar can be used with caution, but proper containment is critical.

Given the symptoms and the extent you’ve described, a professional inspection is strongly advised. They can identify the moisture source—often condensation from AC ductwork or a small leak—and assess the full scope. Air and surface sampling analysed by a microbiology lab can pinpoint the mould type and concentration, which is vital for understanding the health risk and guiding the correct remediation strategy. Resolving the underlying moisture issue is the only way to prevent it from returning.