How to permanently remove mold causing kids' cough in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing a lot this past month, and I just discovered a bunch of black spots spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. It's the wall that faces the outside, and I'm worried this is the cause of their allergies. How do I get rid of this mold properly and make sure it doesn't come back in this Dubai humidity?
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That black spot behind the wardrobe is a classic sign of a condensation issue, and it's very plausible it's contributing to your kids' coughing. The wall facing the outside is often colder, and when humid indoor air hits it, moisture condenses, creating the perfect environment for mold.
First, address the immediate problem. For a small patch (under 1 sqm), you can clean it yourself. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Move the wardrobe away to allow the wall to breathe. Scrub the area with a mixture of detergent and water. Do not use bleach, as it only removes the colour and doesn't kill the roots. Dry the area completely with a fan immediately after cleaning. To prevent it from returning, you must control the moisture. This is the key in Dubai's climate. Ensure your AC is running consistently to control humidity; set it to a comfortable temperature, not excessively cold, as very cold settings can increase condensation on cold surfaces. Improve air circulation in the room—leave space between furniture and walls. A dehumidifier can be very effective in problematic rooms. For a recurring or larger infestation, professional assessment is strongly recommended. The mold behind the wardrobe may only be the visible part, and spores could be circulating through your AC system. A proper inspection includes moisture mapping to find the exact source of water and air testing to identify the mold species, as some types are more allergenic than others. Remediation then involves correcting the moisture source, containing the area during removal, and verifying with post-cleanup testing to ensure the spore count in the air has returned to safe levels. This scientific approach is the only way to achieve a permanent solution. |
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