Is bathroom black mold causing our respiratory issues?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing a lot and my allergies have been terrible since the weather turned more humid a few weeks ago. I just pulled back the silicone sealant around our Deira apartment's shower and found a ton of black mold growing underneath it. The bathroom doesn't have a window and the exhaust fan is pretty weak. Could this be the cause of our respiratory issues, and is it safe for me to clean it myself or should I get a professional?
Posted by Steven Young
Asked on March 31, 2026 12:36 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described and your discovery of black mold behind the silicone sealant, it is highly probable that the mold is a significant contributor to your family's respiratory issues. The persistent coughing and aggravated allergies are classic indicators of exposure to mycotoxins and mold spores, which are potent allergens and respiratory irritants.

The conditions in your Deira apartment are a textbook case for mold proliferation. The combination of Dubai's high ambient humidity, a windowless bathroom, and an inadequate exhaust fan creates a perfect microenvironment for mold. Year-round air conditioning leads to significant temperature differentials, causing condensation within walls and behind surfaces, particularly in poorly ventilated areas like bathrooms. This hidden moisture allows mold to thrive unseen, often for extended periods, before becoming visibly apparent.

Attempting to remove significant black mold growth yourself is strongly discouraged. Disturbing the colony without proper containment protocols will aerosolize a massive quantity of spores, drastically increasing your family's exposure and potentially contaminating other areas of your apartment. Effective remediation requires specialized equipment: HEPA air scrubbers to clean the air, negative air machines to contain the spores, and industrial-grade antimicrobials to treat the area. Furthermore, the root cause—the persistent moisture and condensation—must be professionally diagnosed and addressed to prevent rapid regrowth.

For a situation of this severity, a professional inspection and remediation are not just recommended but essential for your family's health. Our certified technicians at Saniservice are trained in Dubai's specific climate challenges and regulatory standards for environmental health. We can conduct a thorough assessment, safely eradicate the biofilm, and provide solutions to improve your bathroom's ventilation. Please contact us for a professional evaluation; call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 3:31 pm