Is mold causing my kids' cough? Urgent?« Back to Previous Page

Mold could certainly be contributing to your kids' cough, especially if the symptoms are more noticeable at home. The black spots behind the wardrobe, combined with the dampness, indicate active growth. In Dubai's humid climate, this is a common issue where condensation builds up on cooler exterior walls, often behind furniture.

For a small area (under one square meter), you can clean it yourself. However, do not use bleach. It is mostly water, which feeds the mold, and the chlorine evaporates quickly, leaving the roots alive. Instead, use a dedicated fungicidal cleaner or a solution of distilled white vinegar and water. Scrub the area thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry. Fix the source of the moisture; this is often inadequate room ventilation. Move the wardrobe away from the wall and use a dehumidifier or run your AC more consistently to lower indoor humidity and prevent recurrence.

Given that children are affected and the problem has been developing for some time, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. Visible spots can be just the surface of a larger colony growing within the wall. An inspector can use a moisture meter to find the full extent of the dampness and take an air sample to identify the spore types and concentrations in your bedroom air. This is crucial for determining the actual health risk and ensuring the remediation is complete. In many cases, addressing hidden mold and improving the room's environment is needed to fully resolve the respiratory irritation.