Could the closet odor harm my family's health?« Back to Previous Page

Could the closet odor harm my family's health? That is a pertinent concern given your situation. A musty smell often associated with dampness can indeed pose potential health risks to you and your family, especially if it has persisted for two weeks without abating despite cleaning efforts.

In the UAE context, particularly in Dubai, where we experience varying degrees of humidity throughout the year, moisture-related issues are not uncommon. The presence of a musty smell usually indicates microbial growth such as mold or mildew, which thrive in damp environments. Mold spores can release allergens and irritants that may trigger asthma attacks, exacerbate existing respiratory conditions like bronchitis, and cause other health issues including coughing, sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rashes.

Given the duration of your odor issue and its impact on your 6-year-old's health, it is advisable to seek a professional inspection. This will help determine if there’s an active mold infestation or other moisture-related issues that could be causing these symptoms. The UAE building code emphasizes indoor air quality and moisture management (Dubai Municipality Building Code Chapter H), so addressing this issue promptly can ensure the well-being of you and your family.

I would recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection and remediation company like Saniservice. They offer services such as mold testing, air quality assessments, and remediation solutions to tackle persistent odors caused by moisture issues. Their expertise will be crucial in identifying the root cause and providing appropriate treatment to prevent further health risks.

In the meantime, you can take some immediate steps:
• Increase ventilation in the closet or room where the odor is most noticeable.
• Use a dehumidifier if possible, especially if you've experienced recent rainfall like what you described. In Dubai, maintaining indoor humidity levels below 60% is recommended to inhibit mold growth.
• Check for any leaks or water damage around pipes, windows, or roofs that might be contributing to the moisture problem.

Remember, addressing this issue early can prevent more serious health implications and costly structural damage down the line. Don't hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com for further assistance.