Found black mold in wardrobe, is it causing kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the last few weeks and I'm starting to panic. I just pulled our winter clothes out of the built-in wardrobe in our master bedroom and found a huge patch of black mold on the back wall, and all our clothes smell damp. We’re in an older building in Bur Dubai and I'm worried the AC unit might be leaking into the wall. What is the safest and most effective way to handle this, and should I get a professional company to test it first?
Posted by Brian Scott
Asked on March 26, 2026 6:25 pm
Yes, the black mold in your wardrobe is a very likely cause of the persistent coughing. Mold releases spores and microbial volatile organic compounds that are respiratory irritants, especially for children. The damp smell on the clothes confirms active growth, which thrives in our humid Dubai climate, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces like enclosed wardrobes on external walls.

For a case this severe, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. The priority is to identify the moisture source. You are correct to suspect the AC unit; a leaking condensate drain line is a common culprit in older Bur Dubai buildings, often leaking directly into the wall cavity. A certified inspector will use a moisture meter to pinpoint the exact water intrusion point, which is critical for a permanent fix.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing a large patch releases a high concentration of spores into your home's air, potentially worsening your children's symptoms. Professional remediation involves isolating the area, using HEPA filtration to capture airborne spores, and safely removing the contaminated materials.

After the source is fixed and the mold is remediated, a post-remediation verification test, ideally from an independent lab, is the only way to confirm the air quality is safe. For your family's health, engaging a company that provides this documented proof of clearance is the most effective course of action.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 3:43 am