Could mold in our wardrobe be making my toddler sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold in your wardrobe could very well be contributing to your toddler's persistent cough and runny nose. Children, especially toddlers, are more sensitive to mold spores, which can cause chronic respiratory irritation, allergy-like symptoms, and worsen asthma. The fuzzy black and green growth is a clear sign of an active moisture problem.

Your suspicion about the AC unit is astute and common in older Deira buildings. AC drain lines can clog or units can develop condensation leaks inside the walls, creating the hidden, damp environment mold needs to thrive behind your wardrobe.

The first step is to stop the moisture source. Have a certified HVAC technician inspect and service the AC unit to ensure it is draining properly and not leaking. Do not attempt to clean the moldy clothes yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize spores. Bag and dispose of severely contaminated items.

For a situation like this with health symptoms and suspected hidden growth, a professional indoor environmental inspection is strongly recommended. They will use moisture meters and borescopes to check inside the wall cavity for hidden mold and air samples to identify spore types and concentrations. This evidence-based approach is crucial—it confirms the extent of the problem and ensures the remediation plan targets the root cause, not just visible surface growth. In Dubai's humid climate, without fixing the underlying AC leak, the mold will almost certainly return.