Is bathroom mold causing my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing more than usual and I’m starting to worry it’s because of the black spots I found behind the toilet and along the ceiling in our main bathroom. It’s been so humid lately and our bathroom window doesn’t open, so the steam just sits there after their showers. What’s the safest and most effective way to clean this up myself without using harsh chemicals that could affect my family?
Posted by Haruki Sato
Asked on March 19, 2026 12:50 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold in your bathroom is contributing to your children's coughing. The persistent humidity and lack of ventilation you described create a perfect breeding ground for mold spores, which, when inhaled, are a known respiratory irritant, especially for kids.

The black spots behind the toilet and on the ceiling are likely Cladosporium or Stachybotrys (toxic black mold), both common in UAE bathrooms due to our extreme climate. The steam from showers provides the constant moisture these fungi need to thrive.

For a small, surface-level area, you can attempt to clean it yourself. I strongly advise against using bleach, as it is mostly water and can actually feed the mold root structure. Instead, use a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water or a certified mold-removing cleaner. Scrub the area thoroughly, wear an N95 mask and gloves, and ensure the room is well-ventilated during the process.

However, given that the mold is on the ceiling and there are health symptoms involved, this indicates a more serious moisture issue. Surface cleaning often misses spores embedded in the grout or behind walls. For the safety of your family, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. We use thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to find the hidden source of the moisture—which could be a small pipe leak—and air sampling to identify the spore types and concentration levels.

This is the only way to ensure the problem is solved at its root and not just cosmetically. Please, for your kids' health, get it properly assessed.

Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive inspection and a truly effective, family-safe remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 20, 2026 2:43 pm