Is dust in living room harming my daughter?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment a couple of months ago, I’ve noticed that every time I take off my shoes by the door in the living room, there’s this strange dust settling on them. The coughing from my daughter has also gotten worse recently, and she seems to have more congestion than usual. It feels like something is not right, but I’m not sure if it’s just allergies or if we need to see a doctor soon. How urgent should I be about getting her checked out?
Posted by Charles Johnson
Asked on January 21, 2026 7:59 pm
Dust accumulation in your living room can indeed be problematic, particularly concerning the health of your daughter. The symptoms you've described—such as coughing and congestion—are common indicators that there might be an issue, especially if they have worsened since moving into your new apartment. In the UAE, particulate matter (PM) from dust can exacerbate respiratory issues and trigger allergic reactions more easily due to the arid climate.

Firstly, it's important to establish whether the dust is just a cosmetic concern or harbors potential allergens like mold spores, pollen, pet dander, or even microscopic pests. Mold growth in particular can be hazardous, as it thrives in damp conditions and produces mycotoxins that can irritate your respiratory system and cause allergic reactions.

In Dubai, the average humidity levels are relatively low (around 40-50%), which typically limits mold growth. However, any increase in moisture, such as from leaks or high indoor relative humidity, could facilitate mold proliferation. Additionally, the presence of certain types of dust can indicate underlying issues like structural damage, improper ventilation, or poor insulation that allow for the accumulation of allergens.

To properly assess your situation, a professional environmental inspection and testing would be highly recommended. Our company offers comprehensive services to identify sources of indoor contaminants, including mold, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and particulate matter. By gathering accurate data through air quality tests and sampling, we can pinpoint any potential health hazards in your living space.

In the meantime, you can take some preventive measures:
1. Regularly clean your living room using a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filters to capture fine particles.
2. Encourage everyone in the household to remove their shoes at the entrance to reduce bringing in external dust and pollutants.
3. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows when weather permits or using air purifiers designed for high-efficiency filtration.
4. Check for any signs of water damage or leaks that might be contributing to increased humidity levels.

If your daughter's symptoms persist despite these measures, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional who can provide medical advice and rule out other potential causes such as asthma or respiratory infections.

Remember, early intervention is key in addressing indoor air quality issues. If you decide to proceed with an inspection, please contact us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a consultation and to schedule the necessary tests. We are here to help ensure your family's health and comfort in your home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 23, 2026 3:33 am