Should we be worried about mold growth?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a musty smell in the corner of our bedroom, especially when we open the windows. My partner and I both started experiencing mild coughing, which made us suspect mold might be growing there. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed this issue. Could you recommend any steps to prevent mold from spreading or recurring?
Posted by Lauren Anderson
Asked on December 17, 2025 1:23 am
Absolutely, the musty smell and symptoms your partner is experiencing could indeed be indicative of mold growth. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, high humidity can create perfect conditions for mold to thrive, especially following heavy rainfall as you've experienced.

Firstly, it's crucial to assess whether there's visible mold or potential moisture issues. Mold often appears as green, black, white, or other colors and can be accompanied by a musty smell. If you're not seeing any obvious signs but still suspect mold, it might be prudent to conduct an inspection with professionals who are well-versed in UAE regulations such as the ones mentioned at 800-MOLDS or through Saniservice at hello@saniservice.com.

In the meantime, here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows when weather permits and using exhaust fans to remove moisture. In Dubai's climate, this might be challenging during cooler months but is essential for preventing mold growth.

2. Dehumidification: Use dehumidifiers in areas of your home where you've noticed the musty smell or high humidity. This can help reduce the moisture levels that foster mold growth.

3. Dry Out Wet Areas Promptly: If there's been any water damage, such as from your recent rainfall incident, ensure it’s thoroughly dried out to prevent mold formation. For instance, clean up any leaks and dry walls and floors completely before they start hosting mold colonies.

4. Inspect Hard-to-Reach Areas: Mold can grow in hard-to-reach areas like behind furniture or under carpets. A flashlight might help you spot these spots that need attention.

5. Seal Cracks and Leaks: Seal any cracks, gaps, or leaks that could allow moisture to enter your home. This is especially important as Dubai's climate can sometimes bring unexpected humidity levels even when it’s not raining.

6. Regular Cleaning: Regular cleaning of bathrooms, kitchens, and other damp areas with mold-resistant cleaners can help prevent growth.

7. Professional Help: If you notice visible mold or if symptoms persist despite your efforts to control moisture, consider calling in professionals. They will have the knowledge and tools to thoroughly assess and remediate any mold issues adhering to UAE standards.

Remember, early detection and intervention are key in preventing mold from becoming a serious issue. Stay vigilant and act swiftly upon noticing changes that could point towards mold growth.

Keep an eye on the humidity levels in your home, as they can be quite high during certain seasons in Dubai. Regular checks with professionals will ensure you stay ahead of potential problems before they become costly to address or affect your health.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 18, 2025 10:03 am