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

My kids have been coughing non-stop since we got back from the summer holidays, and I've just found patches of black mold in the back of the wardrobe in our master bedroom, where it's always a bit damp from the AC. We live in a villa in Jumeirah and I’m worried the humidity is making it worse. What’s the fastest way to deal with this to help with their breathing?
Posted by Lin Ma
Asked on March 19, 2026 8:55 am
Based on your description, the presence of black mold and the persistent cough in your children are very likely connected. In Dubai's high-humidity environment, especially in older villas in coastal areas like Jumeirah, AC units can be a major source of condensation and mold growth if not properly maintained. The spores released by mold, particularly from a damp, enclosed space like a wardrobe, are a known and potent asthma and allergy trigger, causing symptoms like chronic coughing, wheezing, and respiratory irritation.

The fastest way to address their breathing is to immediately limit their exposure. Do not attempt to clean the mold yourself with bleach, as this can aerosolize the spores and worsen the problem. For a small, contained patch, a HEPA vacuum and a damp wipe with a specialized microbial cleaner can be a temporary measure, but this is not a fix for the underlying moisture issue.

Given that this is in a bedroom and affecting your children's health, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. We need to identify the exact species of mold (as some types are more toxigenic than others) and, more critically, locate the source of the moisture—whether it's a leaking AC drain line, insufficient insulation, or poor ventilation. UAE regulations, such as those from the Dubai Municipality, have specific guidelines for indoor air quality and mold remediation to ensure it's done safely and effectively.

To get a certified specialist to your villa for a full assessment and a plan to solve this at its root, please call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. We can help you create a healthier home environment for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 22, 2026 1:46 am