Is closet mold causing my kids' persistent cough?« Back to Previous Page

Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold growth in your closet is contributing to your children's persistent coughs. The dark green spots are indicative of active microbial growth, likely Cladosporium or Penicillium/Aspergillus types, which are common in Dubai due to the high ambient humidity and condensation issues, especially following humid spells. The damp closet wall suggests a moisture intrusion point, potentially from condensation from AC ducting, a minor leak, or simply hygroscopic moisture absorption in a poorly ventilated space.

Inhalation of mold spores and mycotoxins is a known irritant to the respiratory tract, particularly in children, and can manifest as coughing, wheezing, and other allergic-type reactions.

For immediate action, I strongly advise against attempting to clean the affected sweaters yourself. Agitating the mold will aerosolize a high concentration of spores, significantly increasing the inhalation risk for your family. Isolate the contaminated items in sealed plastic bags for professional hygienization. Wipe down the closet walls with a diluted detergent solution, but be aware this addresses only surface contamination.

The critical step is a professional inspection. The dampness in the wall is the root cause. A certified inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify the exact source of the moisture—be it condensation, capillary action, or a leak—and take air and surface samples to identify the mold species and concentration levels. This is essential for determining the appropriate remediation protocol, as per UAE health and safety guidelines.

Given the health symptoms and the confirmed presence of mold, a DIY approach is insufficient and potentially hazardous. For the safety of your family, I recommend you contact our specialists at Saniservice. We can conduct a comprehensive assessment and provide a safe, effective remediation solution. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.