How to safely clean mold and check inside walls?« Back to Previous Page

Our toddler has been having a runny nose and a weird cough for the last couple of weeks that just won't clear up. I was cleaning behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom in Jumeirah and found a patch of black, fuzzy mold on the wall, probably from the AC condensation. I’m really worried about his health. How do I safely clean this and who should I call to check if it's spread inside the walls?
Posted by Hannah King
Asked on April 12, 2026 3:20 am
Stop cleaning immediately and keep your toddler out of the room. Disturbing mold releases spores into the air, which can worsen respiratory symptoms. The persistent cough and runny nose you described are common reactions to mold exposure, especially in young children.

For safe cleaning, the small patch you found requires containment. Gently mist the area with water to suppress spores, then wipe it with a solution of diluted white vinegar or a dedicated mold cleaner. Never use bleach, as it can worsen indoor air quality and doesn't address the root cause. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles during this process.

However, surface cleaning is often just a temporary fix in Dubai. The real issue is likely inside your walls, driven by the constant high humidity and AC condensation typical of Jumeirah's coastal climate. Mold behind walls is a frequent problem here when insulation gets damp. A professional inspection with a borescope is the only way to verify the extent of the spread without causing unnecessary damage.

For a case involving a child's health and potential hidden growth, hiring a company with a certified mold inspector is strongly advised. They should use a moisture meter to find the water source and perform air and surface sampling, with analysis done by an independent microbiology lab, to identify the species and concentration. This data is critical to understanding the health risk and planning an effective remediation, which may involve removing sections of drywall. Look for providers who hold certifications like IICRC and can show you a clear testing protocol before they begin.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 14, 2026 9:10 pm