Is children's moldy clothing causing coughs and nosebleeds?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, the mold on the clothing is a very likely cause of the symptoms. The fuzzy black spots are actively releasing spores into the air, which are then inhaled. For children, whose respiratory systems are more sensitive, this can cause persistent coughing from irritation and allergic reactions. The nosebleeds are also a common result of mold exposure, as the dry, spore-laden air can irritate and crack the delicate nasal passages.

The recent heavy rains in Al Barsha created a massive spike in ambient humidity, which is the primary fuel for mold growth. A storage cupboard under the stairs is a classic problem area; it's a dark, confined space with little to no air circulation from your AC, allowing condensation and mold to thrive unnoticed on stored fabrics.

Do not attempt to wash or clean the clothes yourself, as this will disturb the spores and significantly increase airborne levels. The fastest and safest way to deal with it is to seal the moldy items immediately in heavy-duty plastic bags and remove them from the home for professional cleaning or disposal.

Given the severity of the children's symptoms, this indicates a significant airborne contamination. The spores will have spread from the clothing throughout the cupboard and likely into your HVAC system. The most effective course of action is a professional inspection, which includes air quality testing to identify all spore types and concentrations. This is crucial, as some molds like Aspergillus are more problematic than others. Remediation should focus on source removal, HEPA vacuuming of the entire storage area, and addressing the humidity source—often by improving ventilation or installing a dedicated dehumidifier in that space to prevent recurrence, a common necessity in Dubai's climate.