Could mold under our rug be causing my kids' sickness?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold under the rug is very likely the cause of your children's persistent coughing and watery eyes. In Dubai's high humidity, especially on a ground floor in Jumeirah, moisture wicks through concrete tiles and gets trapped under rugs, creating a perfect breeding ground for mold. The constant coughing and irritation are classic symptoms of mold exposure, particularly in children who are more sensitive.

The safest way to handle it is to not disturb it yourself. Scrubbing or moving the rug will release a massive cloud of spores into your air, drastically worsening their symptoms and contaminating your entire living area. For a confirmed infestation like this, professional remediation is strongly advised.

A proper mold inspection will identify the exact species and the full extent of the problem, including any moisture trapped in the floor slab itself. Remediation involves isolating the area with containment barriers, using HEPA air scrubbers to filter the air during the process, and safely removing the contaminated materials. They will also identify and rectify the source of the moisture to prevent it from returning.

Until you can get a professional assessment, increase ventilation in the room as much as possible and keep the children away from the area. In the UAE, look for providers who can show verifiable certifications and who use a science-driven approach, including before-and-after testing to confirm the air quality is safe.