Could musty odor cause kids' throat issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty odor coming from the basement storage area where we keep most of our winter clothes. It’s been there since then, even though we haven’t used or moved anything in there recently. My kids have been complaining about their throats feeling scratchy and coughing more than usual lately. Could this be related to the musty smell?
Posted by Christopher Martin
Asked on January 18, 2026 5:42 pm
Indeed, the presence of musty odours can be indicative of microbial growth such as mold and mildew. In your case, given that these odours have persisted since heavy rains and considering that your children are experiencing throat irritation and coughing, it's plausible that there is a direct correlation between the two.

In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, moisture from rainfall or high humidity can create ideal conditions for microorganisms to thrive. The basement area where you store winter clothing could potentially be affected by this, especially if the storage space lacks proper ventilation and lighting. Mold spores can easily spread through air currents and may affect indoor air quality significantly.

The musty odour is a telltale sign of microbial growth and can pose health risks, particularly to children whose respiratory systems are more sensitive. Symptoms like scratchy throats and increased coughing could be due to mold exposure. According to the UAE's Environment and Water Authority (EWA) guidelines, indoor air quality should not contain levels of airborne fungi and bacteria that may cause adverse health effects.

It is highly recommended to seek professional inspection from a certified environmental testing company such as Saniservice. They can conduct thorough sampling and analysis to determine the presence and types of mold or other microorganisms in your basement storage area. This will help identify the root cause and suggest appropriate remediation measures.

In the meantime, take some immediate steps to mitigate potential risks:
• Increase ventilation by opening windows if weather permits.
• Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels.
• Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters which can remove mold spores from indoor air.
• Clean storage areas regularly and ensure items are not in contact with damp surfaces.

Should you decide to proceed, do not hesitate to reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for professional assistance. Remember, addressing this issue promptly is crucial for maintaining the health of your family and ensuring a safe living environment.

Please stay proactive about these matters; your health and wellbeing are paramount!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 20, 2026 9:14 am