Mold on clothes: urgent professional needed or DIY?« Back to Previous Page

Visible mould on clothes is a strong indicator of elevated humidity levels within the living space, a common issue in Jumeirah apartments. The type of mould matters; greenish spots often suggest Cladosporium or Penicillium, which are common allergens, while black spots could be Stachybotrys (black mould), which requires more careful handling.

For a few affected items, you can attempt DIY. Wash the clothes at a high temperature (at least 60°C) with a mould-killing detergent. Sun-drying is highly effective in our climate. However, this only addresses the symptom, not the cause. The real concern is the hidden mould growth in the wardrobe and possibly inside the walls due to condensation from your AC. A dehumidifier is a good start, but it won't remediate existing colonies.

Given the persistent cough in children, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can identify the moisture source—often poor ventilation, AC condensation drain issues, or penetrating damp—and assess the extent of the growth. DIY bleach spraying is not advised; it can aggravate spores and doesn't address the root problem. A proper assessment with moisture meters and, if needed, air or surface sampling, will determine if remediation is required to improve your indoor air quality and protect your family's health.