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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's because of the black fuzzy patches I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it when we moved the furniture to rearrange the room. The wall feels slightly damp and the smell is really musty. Should I be calling a professional cleaning service or is this something I can handle myself with bleach from the supermarket?
Posted by Robert Rodriguez
Asked on March 17, 2026 10:04 pm
Based on your description, there is a high probability that the black mold is contributing to your children's respiratory issues, such as coughing. The presence of fuzzy patches, a musty odor, and a damp wall are classic indicators of an active mold colony, likely Stachybotrys chartarum or another toxigenic species common in Dubai.

The UAE's high humidity, combined with year-round AC use, creates a perfect environment for mold. Condensation often forms on and behind walls, especially if there is a slight thermal bridge or if furniture is placed against an exterior wall, restricting airflow and trapping moisture. Using supermarket bleach is strongly discouraged. It is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall, as it only bleaches the surface mold without addressing the root hyphae deep within the material. Furthermore, bleach is primarily water, which can actually feed the mold colony after the chlorine evaporates. It also poses significant respiratory hazards in an enclosed space.

This situation requires professional intervention. DIY attempts can aggravate the problem by dispersing harmful mycotoxins and spores throughout your home. UAE regulations, particularly from Dubai Municipality, emphasize the need for proper assessment and remediation to ensure occupant health and prevent structural damage. A certified inspector will conduct air and surface sampling to identify the mold species and spore concentration, which is critical for determining the correct remediation protocol.

For the safety of your family, I recommend an immediate professional inspection and remediation. Please contact our specialists at Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our certified team uses industry-standard protocols to safely remove the contamination and identify the moisture source to prevent recurrence.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 19, 2026 4:16 pm