Is high humidity causing mold and coughs?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in my bedroom closet. It's only on the first floor of our building and it’s not as bad downstairs, but the humidity seems to be really high up here. My kids have been coughing more lately, and I’m worried it might be related. Is there anything specific I can do to reduce the humidity in this part of the house?
Posted by Miguel Weber
Asked on March 9, 2026 11:29 am
High humidity levels can indeed lead to the growth of mold and contribute to respiratory issues like coughing. In areas such as Dubai and the UAE, where climate conditions might be more favorable for mold development due to high temperatures and frequent heavy rains, addressing excessive moisture is crucial.

The musty smell you are experiencing in your bedroom closet could very well be a sign of elevated humidity levels. This type of environment provides an ideal setting for mold spores to thrive. According to the UAE's building codes and environmental regulations, maintaining indoor relative humidity between 30% and 50% is generally recommended to avoid the proliferation of molds.

To address this issue in your premises, consider implementing several strategies:

1. Ventilation: Ensure that proper ventilation systems are in place. In hot and humid climates like those found in Dubai, it's important to balance indoor air with fresh outdoor air. Installing exhaust fans or a dehumidifier could be beneficial for reducing moisture levels.

2. Dehumidification: A portable dehumidifier can help reduce the humidity level in your bedroom closet specifically. Aim for a model that can extract at least 70 liters of water per day to effectively combat high humidity conditions.

3. Inspection and Maintenance: Given the potential health risks associated with mold, it would be wise to have a professional inspection carried out by a certified environmental specialist. They can assess the extent of any existing mold growth and provide guidance on remediation methods.

4. Regular Cleaning and Drying: Regularly clean and dry areas prone to moisture accumulation, such as near windows or in bathrooms. Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove standing water and ensure these surfaces are completely dried before they become breeding grounds for molds.

5. Sealing Gaps: Check for any gaps around doors and windows that might allow outside air (and its humidity) into your home. Sealing these gaps can help maintain more stable indoor humidity levels.

If the situation persists or if you notice an increase in mold growth, it's important to act quickly. Our company, Saniservice, provides professional mold inspection and remediation services should you require expert assistance. You can reach us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for more detailed advice and support tailored to your specific situation.

Remember, addressing high humidity is not only about reducing mold but also improving the overall indoor air quality, which in turn can help alleviate symptoms such as coughing.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 11, 2026 10:38 am