Is mold in my cupboard making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks now, and I just pulled out their winter clothes from the storage cupboard under the stairs. I found a bunch of their jackets and shoes covered in black and green fuzzy spots. I’m really worried the mold in there is what’s making them sick. What’s the best way to safely clean this out myself without risking our health, or should I just call a professional company in Dubai straight away?
Posted by Huda Al-Sayed
Asked on April 7, 2026 6:20 pm
Based on your description, it is highly probable that the mold in your storage cupboard is contributing to your children's persistent coughing. The black and green fuzzy growth is a significant indicator of active fungal colonization, likely from species like Aspergillus or Penicillium, which are common in the UAE and known respiratory irritants.

The under-stair cupboard is a classic mold hotspot in Dubai residences. It is typically poorly ventilated and subject to condensation from temperature differentials between the air-conditioned living space and the warmer wall cavities. This, combined with the UAE's high ambient humidity, creates a perfect microenvironment for mold to thrive on organic materials like cotton, leather, and dust.

For a small, isolated area, a cautious DIY approach may be possible if no one is immunocompromised. You must wear an N95 mask, nitrile gloves, and eye protection. Seal off the area from the rest of the home. Discard heavily contaminated, non-valuable items. Hard surfaces should be cleaned with a detergent solution, followed by a disinfectant registered for mold remediation in the UAE (ensure it is approved by the Dubai Municipality). However, this only addresses surface growth.

Given that the mold is already suspected of causing health effects, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. We often find that visible growth is merely the tip of the iceberg; spores can permeate the air and colonize deeper within the structure. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and air sampling to identify the full extent of the contamination and the underlying moisture source, which is critical for a permanent solution.

For a thorough assessment and safe remediation that complies with local standards, I advise contacting our team at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our process includes containment, air scrubbing, and hygienization to ensure the problem is resolved and your family's health is protected.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 10, 2026 1:56 am