How to safely remove mold from curtains for kids?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the mold growing on the back of our bedroom curtains. We live in a villa in Jumeirah and I only noticed it after that period of heavy humidity last month. The black spots are spreading and I'm really worried about their health. What's the fastest and safest way to get rid of this for good?
Posted by Timothy Lee
Asked on April 27, 2026 6:36 pm
First, remove the children from the room and keep the door closed to prevent spores from spreading to other areas. Do not attempt to clean the curtains while they are hanging, as this will aerosolize the mold. Take them down carefully, roll them up with the mold facing inward, and place them in a sealed bag for disposal. In high-humidity climates like Dubai, porous materials like fabric curtains are nearly impossible to remediate fully once mold has colonized; replacement is the safest option for a child's bedroom.

The visible mold on the curtains is a symptom of a humidity problem in the room. The root cause is likely condensation, often from air conditioning units set at a very low temperature meeting the humid outdoor air, or from inadequate ventilation. After the heavy humidity last month, this is a common issue in villas. To prevent recurrence, you must address the moisture source. Ensure your AC is serviced and draining properly, consider using a dehumidifier, and improve air circulation with fans. For new curtains, choose a synthetic, mold-resistant material and ensure they do not touch cold walls where condensation can form.

Given the children's symptoms and the spread of the mold, a professional inspection is strongly advised. Coughing can be a reaction to the elevated spore count now in the room's air. An inspector can use a moisture meter to identify condensation points and an air quality test to quantify the spore levels, which is critical for health reassurance. They can also verify the mold has not spread into the wall cavity behind the curtain, which is a common and more serious issue. This diagnostic approach is the only way to ensure the problem is resolved for good and the environment is safe.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 28, 2026 2:59 am