How to remove mold behind wardrobe and protect health?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots behind your wardrobe are likely mold, a common issue here due to Dubai's high humidity and the condensation that can form on cooler walls, especially behind large furniture. For your children's persistent cough, mold exposure is a known irritant that can cause respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and congestion, particularly in those with allergies or asthma.

First, address the moisture source. This is the most critical step. Move the wardrobe away from the wall. The mold is growing because of trapped humidity and lack of air circulation. You will likely find a cold spot on the wall where condensation forms. Wipe the area completely dry. To kill and remove the visible mold, wear a mask and gloves. Use a mixture of white vinegar or a dedicated mold-cleaning solution, scrubbing the area thoroughly. Avoid bleach, as it primarily bleaches the mold but does not kill the roots and can worsen indoor air quality.

After cleaning, the area must stay completely dry. Consider using a moisture-absorbing product like a desiccant tub nearby. Most importantly, improve air circulation. Leave a gap between the wardrobe and the wall and occasionally leave the bedroom door and windows open when weather permits to allow humid air to escape.

For health concerns, your children's symptoms should improve once the mold is removed and the area is dry. However, if the coughing persists or if the mold covers a large area (generally more than one square meter), or if it returns quickly despite your efforts, a professional inspection is recommended. They can identify if there's a hidden leak or more extensive growth within the wall cavity and perform air quality testing to determine the spore count and species, which is the only way to fully assess the health risk. In the UAE, remediation companies should follow standards like the IICRC S520 for mold remediation.