How to safely clean black mold from wall and furniture?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past two weeks and their allergies are going crazy. I finally pulled out their big toy chest that’s against the wall in our Maadiq room and found a bunch of black fuzzy spots on the back of it and the wall behind. We had that heavy rain last month and I think the humidity never left. What’s the safest way to clean this up myself without risking my family’s health?
Posted by Minh Watanabe
Asked on May 11, 2026 9:40 pm
The black fuzz is likely mold, a common issue here after heavy rains due to high humidity getting trapped inside. For a small area (under one square meter), you can clean it yourself safely. First, isolate the area. Keep your kids and family away and close the door to the Maadiq room.

You'll need an N95 mask, goggles, and rubber gloves. Open a window for ventilation if possible. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle—avoid bleach as it only removes the color and can be hazardous in enclosed spaces. Lightly spray the moldy areas on the wall and the toy chest to dampen the spores and prevent them from becoming airborne. Wipe the area thoroughly with disposable cloths, then place all used cleaning materials in a sealed bag for disposal.

After cleaning, the wall and furniture must be dried completely. Use a dehumidifier or a fan in the room for at least 24-48 hours. Since the mold grew due to moisture, identify and address the source. That wall might be a cold spot where condensation forms, or there could be a minor seepage issue from the rain.

Given that your children are already experiencing respiratory symptoms, this indicates the mold may have already affected your indoor air quality. For health safety and to ensure the mold is thoroughly addressed, a professional inspection is highly recommended. They can use moisture meters to find hidden dampness and perform air quality tests to identify spore types and concentrations, which is crucial for sensitive individuals. In Dubai's climate, this is often a systemic issue related to AC airflow and building envelope integrity, not just a single spot.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 12, 2026 3:06 pm