Is black mold behind wardrobe causing my kids' illness?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been having persistent runny noses and coughing for the past month, and I've just discovered a bunch of black, fuzzy spots spreading along the wall behind our wardrobe in the bedroom. We live in a villa in Jumeirah and I’m worried the humidity is making it worse. Could this mold be the reason they're sick, and what's the proper way to get rid of it for good?
Posted by Abdullah Al-Salem
Asked on March 27, 2026 9:00 am
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the black mold growth behind the wardrobe is contributing to your children's persistent respiratory symptoms, such as runny noses and coughing. In the humid climate of Dubai, especially in a coastal area like Jumeirah, condensation buildup behind large furniture items is a common occurrence due to the constant cycling of air conditioning. This creates a perfect, hidden micro-environment for mold, particularly the notorious Stachybotrys chartarum (often called "black mold"), which is known to produce mycotoxins that can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate allergies and asthma.

Attempting a DIY removal is strongly discouraged. Disturbing the mold without proper containment can aerosolize the spores and mycotoxins, significantly increasing their concentration in your home's air and potentially making the health issues worse. Furthermore, simply wiping it away with bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall and only addresses the surface discoloration, not the root fungal structure.

The proper, permanent solution requires a professional approach. A certified mold inspector will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to identify the exact species and the full extent of the infestation, even inside the walls. Following UAE health and environmental guidelines, a qualified remediation company like Saniservice will then execute a controlled remediation. This involves setting up containment barriers, using HEPA filtration scrubbers to clean the air, safely removing and disposing of contaminated materials (like the affected drywall), and treating the area with specialized antimicrobial agents. Finally, they will identify and rectify the source of moisture to prevent recurrence.

For the health of your family and to ensure the mold is eradicated correctly, I recommend you contact our specialists for an immediate inspection. Please call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 10:11 am