What’s Hiding in a Dirty Couch?

Most people don’t clean their upholstery unless a spill ruins a couch’s immediate appearance. However, not all dirt is visible, and couches can harbor contaminants such as bugs and allergens not readily seen by the naked eye but still pose a health hazard to the family and pets. 

Dust mites, bed bugs, and allergens

Any furniture people sit or lie down on is an ideal place for dust mites and bed bugs to gather. These microscopic arachnids feed on human skin and blood, and some people are allergic to them. While the bugs themselves are not easily noticed, their aftereffects can be. Skin irritation and small bites can often be the result of bed bug infestation in beds or couches.

Harmful microbes

Pets and people can spread microbes far and wide, and couches are a common landing spot. Microbes include a host of bacteria, viruses, fungi, or protozoa, some of which can harm people or pets. While most microbes don’t survive on the couch itself, they can live long enough to spread between people, especially if the couch is in a high-traffic office area.

Mold

If the couch gets wet and isn’t dried properly, or if the house is too humid, mold can develop in the crevices beneath the couch cushions. Mold spreads through airborne spores, which can cause an allergic reaction, asthma attack, or an illness if inhaled.

Food particles and leftovers

If your family enjoys eating food on the couch, some of it will inevitably fall into the depth between the cushions. The food particles attract pests or become moldy. Greasy foods can also leave stains or increase the presence of other contaminants.

While avoiding some grease is unavoidable due to the human body’s natural oils, an excess of it can easily attract more dirt than you might be comfortable with.

Hair and skin flakes

Both people and pets shed skin and hair wherever they go. The upholstery fabric can tangle these flakes and provide more than enough food for dust mites to populate through the couch. For people with pet allergies, a sofa embedded with animal skin or hair can also cause a reaction.

Chemicals

Most furniture requires chemicals in its production process. These chemicals are usually what people are referring to when they speak of “new furniture smell.” While most of these chemicals are safe, some can be harmful to people with sensitive skin or respiratory systems. Sofas also soak up any flying particles in the house like a sponge and can play host to tiny flecks of paint or cleaning chemicals being used for home projects.

Getting rid of couch dirt

Vacuuming the couch regularly can lower the level of contaminants. However, professional upholstery cleaning from your local cleaning and restoration service will freshen up the couch and cushions, remove harmful contaminants, and give more peace of mind.

3D Carpet Cleaning and Restoration offers home service cleaning and sanitation, air duct cleaning, and 24-hour flood service in Tampa & South Florida. Call (813) 833-4126 today!