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

My kids have been coughing and I suspect it's from the black mold I just found behind our bedroom wardrobe in Jumeirah. It's a pretty big patch, maybe a foot wide, and the wall feels damp. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this after I moved the furniture to rearrange the room. Should I try to clean this myself with bleach or is it a job for a professional company?
Posted by Smita Dubey
Asked on March 29, 2026 5:39 am
Based on my professional experience with mold inspection and remediation in Dubai, I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself. The scenario you described—a one-foot-wide patch behind furniture, damp walls, and associated health symptoms like coughing in children—is a serious concern that requires professional assessment.

The primary reason is that visible mold is often just the "tip of the iceberg." The dampness in the wall suggests a moisture source, likely from a small plumbing leak, condensation from year-round AC use, or capillary action from the high ambient humidity. Without identifying and rectifying this source, the mold will simply return. Bleach is an ineffective and potentially dangerous solution; it only bleaches the surface pigment and does not kill the root structure, while its fumes can exacerbate respiratory issues.

In the UAE, professional remediation follows strict IICRC guidelines. Our process involves containment of the area with negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination, safe removal of affected porous materials like drywall, HEPA vacuuming, and antimicrobial treatment. Crucially, we use specialized moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to locate the exact moisture source, which is essential for a permanent solution.

Given the health symptoms and the scale of the problem, a professional inspection is non-negotiable. For a definitive assessment and a safe, guaranteed remediation plan, I recommend contacting our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 6:04 am