Is black mold behind sofa making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

Based on the symptoms you've described – persistent sneezing and itchy eyes, particularly in the evenings in a specific room – it is highly probable that the black mould growth behind your sofa is the primary irritant. This is a common scenario we encounter in Dubai, especially during the more humid periods where AC condensate drain line leaks or coil overflow create the perfect damp environment for mould to proliferate.

The short-term health effects for your children are what we classify as allergic reactions and irritant responses. Mould spores are microscopic allergens. When inhaled or when they come into contact with the eyes, they can cause exactly the symptoms you're seeing: sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes. Children are often more sensitive to these irritants than adults.

The fastest and safest way to deal with this is a two-step process. First, address the moisture source. The AC unit must be inspected and repaired by a certified HVAC technician to stop the leak. This is non-negotiable; otherwise, the mould will simply return. Secondly, for the mould itself, a small patch (under 1 square meter) can be carefully cleaned by you using a solution of detergent and water, followed by a thorough drying. However, it is critical to wear an N95 mask, gloves, and eye protection during this process to avoid exposing yourself to a high concentration of spores.

Given that this is affecting your children's health, I strongly recommend a professional assessment. DIY cleaning can often disturb the mould, causing spores to become airborne and spread throughout your home. Our certified inspectors can conduct air quality testing to identify the spore types and concentration levels, and our remediation teams use industrial-grade HEPA filtration and containment protocols to remove the mould safely and permanently, in full compliance with Dubai Municipality's public health and safety guidelines. For immediate advice or to schedule an inspection, please call our team at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.