Should I clean black mold myself or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found in the corner of our master bedroom closet, behind some shoe boxes. We've lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, probably because this humid weather has made it worse. I'm worried it's a health risk. Should I try to clean this myself with bleach or is it time to call in a professional cleaning company?
Posted by Sarah Wright
Asked on April 6, 2026 4:18 pm
Based on the symptoms you've described and the location of the mold, I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself and recommend you call a professional for an inspection immediately.

The persistent coughing in your children is a significant indicator of potential exposure to mold spores, which can cause respiratory irritation and other health issues. The fact that the mold is in your closet, a confined space, and has been growing undetected for a potential period means the spore concentration in your bedroom air could be elevated.

In the UAE's climate, the combination of high external humidity and year-round air conditioning creates perfect conditions for condensation and mold growth within building envelopes, especially in poorly ventilated areas like closets. Using bleach is a common misconception; it is ineffective on porous surfaces (like drywall or wood) as it only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact. It can also agitate the colony, causing a massive release of harmful spores into the air and potentially worsening your family's symptoms.

A certified professional will first conduct a thorough inspection, including air quality testing, to identify the moisture source, assess the extent of the contamination (which is often far greater than what is visible), and determine the specific species of mold. This is crucial for planning the correct and safe remediation protocol, which involves containment, HEPA filtration, specialized antimicrobial treatments, and finally, verification testing to ensure the environment is safe.

For a confirmed black mold issue with associated health symptoms, professional remediation is not just recommended; it is essential for your family's well-being. Please contact our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 8, 2026 4:08 am