Could the odor be harming my children?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent move into our new apartment a couple of months ago, we’ve noticed that there’s a strange moldy odor coming from the hallway near the children's room. The kids have been complaining about feeling unwell, with sniffles and coughs, especially in the mornings. It's really worrying us whether this might be related to the damp smell or if it could be something else. Could it be due to poor ventilation, or is there a more serious issue we should look into?
Posted by Anita Mishra
Asked on January 20, 2026 1:00 pm
The odor and symptoms your family is experiencing could indeed be indicative of an indoor environmental quality issue. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we see a variety of challenges related to humidity levels and mold growth due to poor ventilation or moisture intrusion. The strange moldy smell you're noticing near the children's room hallway might well stem from dampness, which can lead to mold proliferation.

Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and other health concerns—especially for kids who may have weaker immune systems or existing sensitivities. The sniffles and coughs your children are experiencing in the mornings could be a result of exposure to these moldy conditions.

From a professional standpoint, it's crucial to assess whether this is a result of poor ventilation or if there might be a more serious issue such as water damage or condensation build-up that isn't being managed properly. In Dubai, we often see cases where inadequate air circulation and humidity control lead to these types of problems.

Given the concerns you've raised, it would be highly advisable to conduct a professional indoor environmental quality inspection by contacting a certified service provider like Saniservice. They can assess your home's ventilation systems, check for moisture levels, and identify any potential sources of mold or other contaminants. The sooner this is addressed, the better for your family’s health.

In the meantime, consider improving air circulation in the affected areas using fans or dehumidifiers if you haven't already. Keep an eye on humidity levels and ensure that wet surfaces are dried promptly to prevent mold growth. Remember, maintaining a dry and well-ventilated environment is key to preventing issues like this.

If you decide to go ahead with professional help, Saniservice can be reached at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com. They'll provide a thorough evaluation and recommendations tailored for your specific situation in Dubai.

Stay proactive about the health of your home and family!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 22, 2026 12:12 am