Is dustiness and odor linked to indoor pollution?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new apartment two months ago, I’ve been noticing a persistent dustiness in the living room, especially after the air conditioning runs. My daughter has started coughing more frequently, and my husband complains of headaches when he works from home. Could this be related to some kind of indoor pollution or allergens? What steps should we take to investigate or improve our situation?
Posted by Giovanni Nowak
Asked on February 14, 2026 6:46 am
Dustiness and odor can indeed be linked to indoor pollution. In Dubai and the UAE, homes can accumulate pollutants from various sources such as construction dust, mold spores, allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by building materials or furnishings, and even emissions from cooking and smoking.

The symptoms you're experiencing - increased coughing in your daughter, headaches for your husband, and a general sense of dustiness especially after air conditioning is on – can indicate the presence of indoor pollutants. These could include particulate matter (PM), mold spores, bacteria, or other allergens that might exacerbate respiratory issues.

To investigate further, it's advisable to conduct an indoor environmental quality assessment. This would involve hiring a professional firm like ours at Saniservice to perform a comprehensive analysis. Our team can employ various techniques such as air sampling, moisture testing, and surface swabbing to identify potential sources of contamination in your living room. In the UAE context, given the climate, mold growth is particularly common.

If you choose not to hire a professional for an initial assessment, there are several steps you could take on your own:
• Regularly clean surfaces with microfiber cloths and damp mops
• Use HEPA air purifiers that can effectively remove fine particulates
• Improve ventilation by opening windows when weather permits or using exhaust fans
• Keep humidity levels below 60% to deter mold growth, which is a common issue in Dubai's climate

It’s also beneficial to address any moisture issues promptly. Leaky pipes or condensation on walls can lead to mold and mildew. A dehumidifier might be useful if relative humidity consistently stays above 55%.

If the indoor air quality remains poor despite these efforts, professional remediation may be necessary. We recommend reaching out to us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com for a consultation and detailed inspection.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial not only for comfort but also for health. Don't hesitate to take proactive steps now before the situation worsens.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 15, 2026 8:23 am