Is green mold in closet urgent?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet. When I opened it up, there was a visible greenish mold growing on some of the corners of the walls and even on an old box of clothes that had been sitting there for years. It’s pretty concerning because now my kids are coughing more often than usual. How urgent is this issue, and what should I do first?
Posted by Steven Moore
Asked on January 14, 2026 2:29 pm
Green mold in your closet is indeed urgent and should be addressed promptly. Mold growth, especially in residential spaces like Dubai's climate-controlled environments, can pose significant health risks, particularly to children who may suffer from more frequent coughing as you've noticed.

The first step would be to cease using the affected area until it has been thoroughly inspected and remediated. You should also refrain from touching or moving items that might contain mold spores, which could disperse them throughout your home via air currents. This precaution is especially important in Dubai's warm, humid climate where mold can spread rapidly.

Given the visible growth on both walls and old clothing, it would be advisable to engage a professional environmental inspection service such as Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or 800-66537 for immediate assistance) to assess the situation. They will have the expertise to determine if the mold is indeed toxic and whether remediation efforts require specialized equipment, such as negative air pressure enclosures.

In your case, you should start by wearing protective gear like gloves, a mask, and goggles when handling potentially contaminated items. It's crucial to clean non-porous surfaces with a solution of one cup bleach per gallon of water followed by thorough drying. For porous materials like the old clothing, discard them if they cannot be thoroughly cleaned.

Remember that UAE regulations require prompt action in cases where mold poses a health risk. The Health Authority - Abu Dhabi (HAAD) and Dubai Health Authority have stringent guidelines on indoor air quality and mold management. Non-compliance can lead to fines or legal implications for property owners.

In addition to cleaning, ensure good ventilation in your home by opening windows when weather permits and using fans or dehumidifiers to lower humidity levels. This will help prevent future mold growth. Keep in mind that maintaining a relative humidity level below 60% is ideal in areas prone to high moisture content like Dubai’s climate.

Lastly, consider installing a moisture barrier if you notice persistent issues with condensation or water ingress. Regular maintenance and inspections can also help prevent mold from taking hold again in the future.

By taking these steps quickly, you can minimize health risks for your family and ensure a safe living environment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 16, 2026 10:05 pm