Could mold in our storage room be making us sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold in your storage room could definitely be contributing to your family's persistent coughing. The black and green fuzzy spots are a clear sign of active growth, and that damp, earthy smell is a classic indicator of high microbial activity, which releases spores and volatile organic compounds into the air you breathe.

In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. Storage rooms, especially those with exterior walls or poor ventilation, are prone to condensation from the extreme humidity and year-round AC use. This creates the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive on organic materials like cotton, wool, and leather.

The first step is to limit exposure. Do not attempt to clean the items yourself, as this will disturb the spores. Seal the entire bin in a heavy-duty plastic bag and remove it from the home immediately. Keep the storage room door closed and avoid letting children near the area.

For a situation of this scale, with visible growth and health symptoms already present, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can identify the moisture source—often a small AC leak, plumbing seepage, or inadequate ventilation—and assess the full extent of the growth, which can hide behind baseboards or within walls. Remediation must address the root moisture problem first; otherwise, the mold will simply return.

A reputable inspector will use tools like moisture meters and thermal cameras to find hidden dampness and can take air and surface samples for lab analysis to identify the specific types of mold present. This is crucial information, as some species are more strongly linked to respiratory irritation than others. Resolving the underlying cause is the only way to ensure a long-term solution for your family's health.