Could moldy clothes be causing my kids' persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past two weeks and we can't figure out why. I just pulled out a box of winter clothes from the back of our wardrobe in the master bedroom and found a bunch of our sweaters covered in black and green fuzzy spots. The room has felt really damp lately, even with the AC running. Could this mold be the reason for their coughs and what's the fastest way to deal with it safely?
Posted by Barbara Taylor
Asked on March 30, 2026 8:36 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth on the stored clothing is a significant contributor to your children's persistent cough. The black and green fuzzy spots are characteristic of common indoor molds like Aspergillus or Penicillium, which produce mycotoxins and allergens that are potent respiratory irritants, especially for children.

The dampness you've noted is the critical factor. In Dubai's climate, high external humidity, combined with the constant cooling from your AC unit, creates massive condensation issues. This condensation often occurs in poorly ventilated spaces like the back of closets, creating a perfect microenvironment for mold to thrive on organic materials like cotton and wool.

Your fastest and safest course of action is to immediately isolate the contaminated items. Seal the moldy clothes in a plastic bag and remove them from the home to prevent further spore dispersal. Do not attempt to clean them yourself, as improper handling will aerosolize the spores, exacerbating the respiratory issues. For a case of this severity, with health symptoms already present, a professional inspection is non-negotiable.

We strongly recommend you contact a certified professional like Saniservice. Our specialists are trained in UAE-specific remediation protocols and can conduct a comprehensive inspection using moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify the full extent of the humidity problem and hidden mold growth. We will then execute a safe, contained remediation process, including advanced air scrubbing to remove airborne spores.

Do not delay in addressing this. For immediate consultation and to schedule an inspection, please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 31, 2026 12:50 pm