Is mold behind my wardrobe a health risk for toddler?« Back to Previous Page

Our villa in Al Barsha has had a lingering damp smell in the upstairs bedrooms since the heavy rains and humidity last month. I just moved a wardrobe to fetch something and found a whole patch of black and green fuzzy mold spreading on the wall behind it. With my toddler sleeping in the next room, I'm really worried. How urgently do I need to get a professional mold inspection here in Dubai, and is this something that can become a major health risk quickly?
Posted by Nada Haddad
Asked on April 10, 2026 10:05 am
Yes, mold behind a wardrobe is a health risk for a toddler. Their developing respiratory systems are more susceptible to the irritants and potential allergens that molds release. This can quickly manifest as increased congestion, coughing, wheezing, or exacerbating existing allergies and asthma.

Given the circumstances you described – a damp smell since the rains, visible growth, and a toddler in the adjacent room – a professional inspection is recommended urgently, ideally within the next few days. The recent humidity created ideal conditions for mold, and its presence behind furniture confirms a persistent moisture issue that needs to be identified and resolved.

In Dubai’s climate, this is a common issue. Year-round AC use can cause condensation if units are undersized or not maintained, and trapped humidity behind large furniture against exterior walls is a frequent cause. The inspection will determine the extent of the growth (often more than what's visible) and identify the moisture source, which is critical to prevent recurrence.

For immediate action, isolate the area if possible and avoid disturbing the mold, as this can release spores. A reputable inspector will use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find the water intrusion and may recommend air or surface sampling to identify the mold species, which helps assess the specific risk level. This diagnostic approach is the standard for science-driven companies in the region.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 11, 2026 12:26 pm