Could moldy winter clothes cause my kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, moldy winter clothes can certainly cause or worsen respiratory symptoms like coughing in children. The humid climate in Dubai, especially during the winter months when condensation can form in un-air-conditioned storage areas, creates an ideal environment for mold growth on natural fibers like cotton and wool. When these items are disturbed, they release microscopic spores and mycotoxins into the air, which are then inhaled.

For children, who are more sensitive to airborne irritants, this exposure can lead to persistent coughing, sneezing, itchy eyes, and worsened allergy or asthma symptoms. The reaction depends on the mold species and the child's individual sensitivity. While the cough is likely an irritation response, it's important to address the source to prevent ongoing exposure.

The safest approach is to handle the items minimally to avoid spreading spores. Seal the moldy clothes in plastic bags before moving them. For mildly affected, non-porous items like boots or plastic buttons, a thorough cleaning with a diluted white vinegar solution can be effective. However, for extensively mold-damaged porous materials like jackets and blankets, especially those with sentimental or high monetary value, professional remediation is the safest option to properly decontaminate them.

Because the mold growth in your storage room indicates a humidity problem, a professional inspection is advised. They can identify the moisture source, assess the extent of the issue in the room itself (like walls or ceilings), and ensure the environment is corrected to prevent recurrence, which is a common challenge in villas here. Do not attempt to clean large areas of visible mold yourself, as improper methods can aerosolize the spores and worsen the indoor air quality for your family.