For your situation, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. The wall feeling damp indicates the mold growth is likely inside the wall cavity, which you cannot properly treat yourself. Disturbing it without containment protocols can spread spores throughout your home, potentially worsening your kids’ coughing.

Proper remediation involves identifying and stopping the moisture source—often condensation from AC or a small leak. The affected section of drywall typically needs to be carefully removed under containment, the cavity cleaned with specialized agents, and new moisture-resistant drywall installed. Simply wiping the surface will not solve the problem and it will return.

To prevent recurrence, ensure good air circulation behind all furniture. Leave a few inches of space between your wardrobe and the wall. A dehumidifier can help, but addressing the root cause of the dampness is essential. For a definitive diagnosis of the mold type and to verify the home is safe for your family after remediation, a post-cleanup verification test from an accredited microbiology lab provides the necessary evidence.