Is black mold causing my kids' cough? How to remove safely?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past two weeks and I just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of their bedroom closet. We’re in a villa in Jumeirah and I’m worried the recent humidity made it worse. Is this dangerous and what’s the best way to get rid of it safely without making them sick?
Posted by Gary Jones
Asked on March 31, 2026 5:28 am
Based on your description, there is a strong possibility that the black mold in your children's closet is contributing to or directly causing their persistent cough. Mold, particularly in a confined space like a closet, releases microscopic spores and mycotoxins into the air. When inhaled, these can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing, and other allergic-type reactions. Children are often more susceptible due to their developing immune systems and smaller lung capacity.

The humid climate in Dubai, especially in coastal areas like Jumeirah, creates a perfect environment for mold growth. Even with year-round AC, condensation can form in poorly ventilated areas, and closets against exterior walls are common hotspots. What you see as a patch is often just the surface; the hyphae (root structure) can penetrate deep into building materials.

For safe removal, I strongly advise against DIY methods. Disturbing the mold without proper containment, such as wiping or scrubbing it, will aerosolize a massive amount of spores, potentially making the air quality worse and spreading the contamination. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces and does not address the root cause.

The only safe and effective approach is professional assessment and remediation. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and the full extent of the contamination, which is crucial for determining the correct remediation protocol. In the UAE, reputable companies like ours at Saniservice follow strict IICRC standards for containment, using HEPA filtration and specialized antimicrobial agents to remove the mold at its source and purify the air.

Given the health symptoms and the location, this is a serious case requiring immediate professional attention. I recommend you call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection. We can identify the moisture source and safely eliminate the hazard to protect your family's health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 2, 2026 2:22 pm