Is odor from bookcase due to mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent dust storm that hit Dubai, I've noticed a strange odor coming from the bottom shelf of our bookcase in the living room. My family has been complaining about it for a few days now, and it’s really concerning since we’re also dealing with some respiratory issues. The furniture repair guy suggested it might be due to moisture seepage but warned us that using uncertified dehumidifiers could be dangerous. How urgent is this issue, and should I prioritize getting a certified one right away or wait for the specialist who handles such cases?
Posted by Barbara Moore
Asked on February 20, 2026 7:10 am
Odors from bookcases can indeed be indicative of mold growth, especially post-dust storms. In the context of the uae and dubai, where humidity levels can fluctuate significantly due to weather conditions like dust storms and periodic rainfall, it is crucial to investigate such issues thoroughly.

The presence of moisture seepage as suggested by your furniture repair guy could indeed be a contributing factor. However, without proper testing, it's difficult to ascertain the exact source or extent of any mold growth. Mold thrives in damp environments, and its spores can irritate respiratory systems, causing allergic reactions or exacerbating existing conditions like asthma.

Given the health concerns raised by your family and the recent environmental conditions, I would recommend prioritizing a professional inspection. The uae has stringent building codes regarding indoor air quality (IAQ), particularly with regards to moisture management in buildings. Local regulations such as those enforced by the Dubai Municipality require adherence to specific standards for maintaining healthy indoor environments.

Using uncertified dehumidifiers can indeed pose risks, including potential malfunctions that might further exacerbate humidity issues or introduce contaminants into your home’s air. Therefore, opting for a certified dehumidifier would be prudent, ensuring it meets local safety and performance standards.

You should consider contacting a professional remediation company like Saniservice (hello@saniservice.com or call 800-MOLDS / 800-66537) who can provide comprehensive testing to identify the root cause of the odor. They will use specialized equipment such as thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to assess the condition of your bookcase and surrounding areas.

Once identified, they can recommend appropriate remedial actions which might include dehumidification, mold removal techniques, and ensuring proper ventilation systems are functioning correctly. It’s important to address these issues promptly to prevent potential long-term health impacts on you and your family.

Remember, maintaining a dry environment is key to preventing mold growth. Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture accumulation, such as bookcases near windows or in corners where air circulation may be poor. Implementing practices like using dehumidifiers during high-humidity periods can help prevent issues from arising.

Do not delay seeking professional advice and remediation services. Addressing this issue now could save you significant inconvenience down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 22, 2026 6:22 pm