Could mold on clothes be making my family sick?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold on clothes can absolutely be the cause of your family's coughing and allergy flare-ups. The damp, earthy smell you describe is a clear indicator of active microbial growth, and disturbing those items releases spores into your indoor air.

In Dubai's climate, this is a common issue. Clothes stored in enclosed spaces absorb humidity, and when the temperature fluctuates, condensation forms, creating a perfect environment for mold. The black and green spots are likely species like Aspergillus or Cladosporium, which are known respiratory irritants. Inhaling their spores can trigger allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and persistent coughing, especially in children.

Stop using that storage room immediately and do not attempt to clean the clothes yourself, as this will aerosolize more spores. For a contained issue, you can wash moldy fabrics with hot water and a mold-inhibiting detergent, but severe contamination often ruins clothing.

The musty smell suggests the problem may extend beyond just the visible surfaces into the cupboard structure or walls. A professional inspection is the most reliable way to assess the full extent. They can identify the mold type and moisture source, which is critical for a permanent solution. In the UAE, proper remediation involves containment, HEPA-filtered air scrubbing, and addressing the underlying humidity issue, often linked to AC condensation or insulation problems. For your family's health, getting a verified assessment is the recommended next step.