Is musty smell from closet due to mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in our bedroom closet, and since then, my asthma has been acting up really badly. My kids have been coughing more than usual too, especially at night. Could this be mold causing these symptoms? What should we do to check for mold and address it if it’s the culprit?
Posted by Marco Robert
Asked on January 23, 2026 8:36 pm
The musty smell emanating from your closet could indeed be indicative of mold growth. In the UAE, particularly during seasons of heavy rainfall as you've experienced recently, it's quite common to see moisture-related issues leading to such odors and subsequent health concerns like exacerbated asthma symptoms and coughing among family members.

Mold thrives in damp environments with high humidity levels. In Dubai, the climate can be challenging due to its proximity to water bodies and occasional intense rainfall events. If moisture has accumulated in your closet due to poor ventilation or leaking areas, it could provide an ideal environment for mold spores to grow and multiply.

For a definitive diagnosis of whether mold is causing your symptoms, we recommend engaging a professional mold inspector. In the UAE, companies like Saniservice can conduct thorough inspections following local standards such as ASHRAE guidelines which are widely accepted in the region. They will use advanced equipment including moisture meters, thermometers, and air sampling devices to identify areas of high humidity or actual mold growth.

If a presence of mold is confirmed, remediation must be done promptly. This involves removing affected materials (like carpets or drywall), cleaning surfaces with anti-microbial solutions, and drying out the area completely. To prevent future occurrences, consider installing dehumidifiers in damp-prone areas like basements or closets. Regular maintenance checks for leaks and ensuring proper airflow can also help.

Remember, dealing with mold isn't just about addressing visible growth; it's crucial to manage underlying moisture issues too. Ignoring these could lead to persistent health problems not only for you but your family as well. Given the severity of symptoms described, immediate action is advised.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com today to schedule a professional inspection and remediation service tailored specifically for Dubai's climate conditions.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 26, 2026 5:11 pm