Is hidden bathtub mold a serious health risk?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a few weeks and I keep waking up with a stuffy nose. I just pulled back the silicone sealant around the bathtub in my Marina apartment and found a bunch of black, fuzzy mold growing underneath it. I’m really worried this is what’s making us sick. Is this kind of hidden mold a serious health risk, and what’s the most effective way to get rid of it for good?
Posted by Anthony King
Asked on March 23, 2026 10:22 am
Based on your description of the symptoms and the hidden mold discovery, the situation in your Marina apartment is a significant health concern. The black, fuzzy growth under the silicone is almost certainly a mold colony, and its concealed nature means it has been releasing spores into your bathroom's air, which then circulate through your apartment via the AC system. This directly explains the persistent coughing and nasal congestion you and your children are experiencing.

The UAE's high humidity, especially in coastal areas like Dubai Marina, creates a perfect environment for mold. Bathrooms are epicenters due to steam from showers and baths, which leads to condensation. When this moisture becomes trapped behind non-breathable materials like silicone sealant, aggressive mold growth is inevitable. This is not a superficial issue you can simply wipe away. Disturbing it, as you did by pulling the sealant, can aerosolize a high concentration of spores, exacerbating the problem.

For a case of this magnitude, professional remediation is not just recommended; it is essential for your family's health. DIY attempts often fail to address the root moisture problem and can spread contamination. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to identify the full extent of the water intrusion and hidden growth. Remediation involves containment of the area, professional-grade antimicrobial treatment, and removal of the contaminated materials. Crucially, we then identify and rectify the source of the moisture to prevent recurrence, which is paramount in Dubai's climate.

To properly diagnose the problem and receive a protocol for safe, permanent removal, I strongly advise you to contact our team for a professional inspection. Please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. Saniservice is equipped to handle this with methodologies that comply with local environmental and health standards, ensuring your home is safe again.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 25, 2026 9:57 am