How to safely remove AC mold for child's health?« Back to Previous Page

The AC unit in my son's bedroom in our Jumeirah villa seems to be leaking a bit of water, and now I'm seeing black spots on the wall behind his bed. He's been sneezing a lot more than usual the last couple of weeks, and I'm worried it's making him sick. I tried wiping it with vinegar, but it just came back. What's the safest way to get rid of this for good without using harsh chemicals around my kids?
Posted by Barbara Garcia
Asked on May 3, 2026 3:40 am
The black spots are likely mold, a common issue in Dubai due to high humidity and AC condensation leaks. Your son's sneezing is a typical reaction to mold spores, so addressing the source is the priority.

Vinegar only removes surface mold you can see, not the spores or the underlying moisture problem. For a recurring issue near a child's bed, the safest method is to first fix the AC leak—this is the critical step. A certified HVAC technician should check the drain line and drip pan, as a continuous water source will cause mold to return regardless of cleaning.

For the wall, a solution of diluted detergent (like a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water) is safer for children than bleach. Scrub the area, then follow with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution (3%) to disinfect. Dry the wall completely with a fan immediately after cleaning.

However, if the mold has penetrated porous materials like drywall or the AC unit itself, wiping it is insufficient. The spores become airborne during cleaning, which can worsen your son's symptoms. For a situation involving health effects and a recurring leak, a professional inspection is recommended. They can identify the exact mold type and extent of growth, which is important for determining the correct remediation method. In many Dubai villas, the problem originates inside the AC unit or ductwork, which requires specialized cleaning to prevent spores from circulating throughout the room.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 4, 2026 4:16 pm