Is urgent mold removal needed for my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for the past couple of weeks and I've just discovered what looks like black mold behind the wardrobe in our master bedroom. We've lived in this Mirdif villa for years, but I think the problem started after that period of heavy humidity we had last month. How urgent is it that I get a professional mold removal company in, or can I handle this myself with a bleach solution first?
Posted by John King
Asked on April 3, 2026 1:03 pm
Given the symptoms you've described and the discovery of black mold, this situation should be treated with a high degree of urgency. Persistent coughing in children is a common allergic reaction to mycotoxins released by mold spores, and Stachybotrys chartarum (often referred to as "black mold") is particularly concerning. The high humidity period we experienced is a classic catalyst for such growth, especially in areas with poor ventilation like behind furniture.

In the UAE's climate, where air conditioning runs year-round, condensation can easily form on cold walls, creating the perfect damp environment for mold to thrive, even if the room itself feels dry. Attempting a DIY removal with a bleach solution is strongly discouraged. Bleach is ineffective on porous surfaces like drywall, as it only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact. More critically, it can agitate the colony, causing a massive release of spores into your indoor air and potentially worsening your children's respiratory symptoms.

Professional remediation is essential. We adhere to strict IICRC S520 standards for mold remediation, which involves full containment of the area with negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination, safe removal of affected porous materials, and HEPA filtration to scrub the air of spores. A certified inspection is also critical to identify the moisture source—it could be a hidden pipe leak, condensation, or ingress from the high humidity—to prevent recurrence.

For the health of your family, I recommend immediate professional assessment. Please call our team at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection. Our certified experts can determine the extent of the problem and implement a safe, effective, and permanent solution.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 6, 2026 12:19 pm