Could mold in our coats cause my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold in your coats could definitely be the cause of your kids' persistent coughs and sore throats. The black, fuzzy spots are a clear sign of active growth, and the damp, musty smell indicates high spore levels in the air, which are directly inhaled and can irritate the respiratory tract.

In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. Storage areas, especially under stairs or in villas, are prone to condensation and high humidity due to constant AC use creating temperature differentials. The organic material in fabrics like wool or cotton provides an ideal food source for mold. Children are particularly susceptible to these irritants, often reacting with coughing, congestion, and throat irritation.

Your immediate step should be to isolate the contaminated items. Seal the moldy coats in plastic bags and remove them from your home to prevent further spore dispersal. Do not attempt to clean them yourself, as this will aerosolize the spores. A professional restoration service can assess if they are salvageable.

Crucially, you need to address the source of the dampness in that cupboard. It's likely due to a lack of ventilation or a hidden condensation issue. Leaving the door open with a fan to circulate dry air can help, but the problem may be more serious. Given the symptoms and the visible growth, a professional mold inspection is strongly recommended. They can identify the moisture source, assess the extent of the contamination inside the wall or under the flooring, and provide a protocol for safe remediation to ensure your family's health is protected.