Is high humidity causing health issues?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in my bedroom closet, especially during the nights. My kids have been complaining of sore throats and persistent coughs, which we only seem to get when it’s humid outside. Could this be related to the high humidity levels? What steps should I take to dehumidify my home and protect their health?
Posted by Michel Schneider
Asked on December 19, 2025 1:28 pm
High humidity can indeed be linked to health issues, and it sounds like your situation aligns with what could happen in Dubai/UAE during certain times of the year. The lingering musty smell and persistent coughs among your family members suggest that high indoor humidity might be a factor.

In the UAE, especially in Dubai, we typically experience a range of environmental conditions where humidity levels can fluctuate significantly. High humidity, particularly if it exceeds 60-70%, can create an environment conducive to mold growth, dust mites, and other allergens that may affect respiratory health, leading to symptoms like sore throats, coughs, and even more severe conditions such as asthma or bronchitis.

To address the issue of high humidity in your home:

1. Professional Inspection: Given the potential for mold and other issues, it would be prudent to call a professional inspection service like Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) to assess the humidity levels and check for any signs of moisture damage or mold.

2. Dehumidification System: Installing a dehumidifier is highly recommended, especially in areas prone to high humidity like your bedroom closet. A dehumidifier can reduce the relative humidity level by extracting excess moisture from the air, which not only helps with musty smells but also reduces the risk of mold and dust mites.

3. Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation throughout your home, particularly during humid seasons. Opening windows for a short period to allow fresh air in can help lower indoor humidity levels. However, be cautious about opening windows during heavy rain or when there's outdoor moisture.

4. Air Conditioning Maintenance: Regularly service your air conditioning units as they not only cool the air but also help dehumidify it by removing water from the air stream before it circulates back into your home.

5. Humidity Monitoring: Invest in a digital hygrometer to monitor humidity levels regularly. This will give you an accurate reading and allow you to adjust your dehumidification efforts accordingly.

6. Dry Clothes Outside: Avoid drying clothes indoors, as this can significantly increase indoor moisture content.

7. Regular Cleaning: Keep surfaces clean and dry to prevent the growth of mold and other allergens. Pay special attention to areas where water is commonly used or present.

By taking these steps, you should be able to effectively manage the humidity levels in your home, which could potentially alleviate the health issues experienced by your family. Remember, maintaining optimal indoor air quality is crucial for everyone's well-being, particularly during periods of high outdoor humidity.

For any further assistance or if the problem persists, do not hesitate to contact Saniservice at 800-66537 for a professional consultation and remediation.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 21, 2025 8:14 pm