Is mold from curtains harming my kids?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in my son’s bedroom. The windows are always open since it gets so hot during the day, but even with good ventilation, there seems to be some mold growing behind the curtains near his bed. My kids have been coughing more often lately and I’m worried it might be related. Could this really be from the mold? What can we do to prevent it from spreading and ensure my family’s health?
Posted by Juergen Becker
Asked on January 8, 2026 4:12 am
Mold From Curtains Harmin' Your Kids?

First off, it's understandable that you're concerned about the health implications of mold, especially given your family's recent respiratory issues. In Dubai and the UAE, we have specific regulations regarding indoor air quality and mold management, which are outlined in the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD) guidelines.

The musty smell and visible mold growth behind curtains can indeed pose a health risk to individuals, particularly children who might be more susceptible due to their developing immune systems. Symptoms like coughing could very well be linked to mold exposure; spores from mold can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate conditions such as asthma or other allergies.

Now, what steps should you take? Firstly, don't panic—take a deep breath (pun intended). It's crucial to act swiftly but methodically. The first step would be to cease any activities that might spread the spores further. Keep windows closed if possible and use air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to capture airborne mold spores.

Inspecting for mold is key, and given your situation in Dubai, it wouldn't hurt to schedule a professional inspection by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. These experts can provide a detailed assessment of the extent of the mold growth and suggest appropriate remediation methods.

In the meantime, you can implement some DIY measures to contain the situation:
1. Wear protective gear such as gloves and masks when dealing with mold.
2. Use a damp cloth or a solution of water and mild detergent to gently clean affected areas. Be cautious not to spread spores.
3. Replace any porous materials that cannot be cleaned thoroughly, like curtains or upholstery.
4. Ensure good ventilation by using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.

Remember, preventing the spread is essential. Keeping humidity levels low through dehumidifiers can help, but a professional assessment might reveal underlying issues such as water leaks or condensation problems that need addressing.

Lastly, regular maintenance of your home’s HVAC systems, including filters and ductwork cleaning, can prevent mold from taking root in the first place. This is especially important given the climate conditions in Dubai.

Stay vigilant and proactive to safeguard your family's health. If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out for professional guidance.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 9:30 am