Could musty smell be mold affecting family health?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we had last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the corner of our living room. It’s been there ever since, even after we cleaned everything up. My kids have started coughing more frequently lately too. Could this be mold? What should I do to check if it’s spreading and how can I protect my family's health?
Posted by Ibrahim Al-Rashid
Asked on January 21, 2026 12:02 pm
Absolutely, the musty smell coming from your living room corner could be an indication of mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments and can produce spores that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MTHF), which can give off a distinctive musty odor. These VOCs, combined with the potential for molds to produce allergens, irritants, and mycotoxins, make it crucial to address any suspected mold issues promptly.

In the UAE, specifically in Dubai, humidity levels can be quite high due to our climate. Combined with the recent heavy rains, your home could indeed have experienced increased moisture levels that promote mold growth. This is not uncommon during such weather changes and underscores the importance of a professional inspection as per local regulations (UAE Law No. 32 of 1986 on Public Health).

To assess whether the mold is spreading or posing health risks to your family, here are several steps you should take:

Firstly, ensure that the area with the musty smell remains dry and well-ventilated. Open windows if possible and use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in the air.

Secondly, visually inspect the affected areas for visible signs of mold like discoloration or fuzzy growth on walls, ceilings, carpets, or furniture. Mold can appear black, green, white, orange, brown, or even pinkish-reddish.

Thirdly, consider conducting a professional indoor air quality test to detect mold spores and assess overall health risks. Saniservice.com offers such services that comply with UAE standards and provide detailed reports on the presence of mold and other contaminants.

If you suspect significant mold growth or if family members are experiencing symptoms like coughing, sneezing, runny nose, eye irritation, or even more severe reactions such as headaches, dizziness, or respiratory problems, it is highly advisable to contact a professional environmental inspection and remediation company. They will have the necessary expertise and equipment to properly assess the situation and recommend appropriate measures.

Remember, in Dubai, regulations require that any remediation work be conducted by certified professionals who adhere to safety standards during mold removal processes. Saniservice can provide such services, ensuring your family’s health is prioritized while effectively addressing the mold issue.

Please call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for immediate assistance and peace of mind. Ignoring this situation could lead to deteriorating indoor air quality, which in turn can exacerbate respiratory issues among family members.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 22, 2026 1:05 pm