Is bathtub mold causing my kids' persistent illness?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been having a runny nose and a weird cough for the past few weeks that won't go away. I just pulled back the rubber sealant around the bathtub in our Marina apartment and found a ton of black, fuzzy mold hiding underneath. I'm really worried this is what's making them sick. How dangerous is this, and can I clean it myself or do I need to call a professional company here in Dubai?
Posted by Carmen Colombo
Asked on March 25, 2026 1:05 pm
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold discovered under your bathtub sealant is a contributing factor to your children's persistent respiratory issues, namely the runny nose and non-resolving cough. The black, fuzzy growth is characteristic of a Stachybotrys or Aspergillus species, both of which are known to produce mycotoxins and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are irritants and can trigger allergic reactions, especially in children with developing immune systems.

The environment in your Marina apartment is a classic incubator for such mold growth. Dubai's high ambient humidity, combined with constant air conditioning, creates significant temperature differentials that lead to condensation within wall cavities and behind fixtures. The porous rubber sealant acts as a reservoir, trapping moisture and organic material (soap scum, skin cells) which the mold uses as a food source. Simply wiping visible surface mold is ineffective, as the hidden fungal colony underneath has likely penetrated the substrate.

For a case of this severity, with confirmed health symptoms and concealed growth, a DIY cleaning is strongly discouraged. Agitating the colony without proper containment protocols will aerosolize a high concentration of spores and mycotoxins throughout your apartment, potentially worsening the contamination and your family's exposure.

The recommended course of action is a professional inspection and remediation. In the UAE, companies like ours, Saniservice, follow strict protocols for assessment, containment, removal, and post-remediation verification (PRV) to ensure the problem is resolved safely and completely. We use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air/o-surface sampling to determine the full extent of the infestation.

For your family's health and a permanent solution, I advise you to contact our specialists for a comprehensive assessment. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 28, 2026 1:08 am