Feeling stuffy on the sofa? Nose extra drippy in the dining room? While the spring may spark seasonal allergies, the problem may be more contained indoors. Learn how your upholstery could be harboring some health hazards and how to find some relief.

Upholstery Health Hazards

Even if you don’t suffer from seasonal allergies, other elements around your home could irritate your respiratory system throughout the year. If you find yourself sneezing, coughing, and constantly sick, focus on where you spend most of your time. The culprit could be hiding in your couch cushions, car seats, and other upholstered pieces of furniture. Here are some of the allergens and other irritants that collect in the fibers of your favorite resting spots:

• Dust mites. Even if you vacuum the surface of the seats, dust collects in the crevices and underneath the cushions.
• Pet dander. You could try to keep your pets off the couch or use washable covers, but if you’re a pet owner, you know how their hair gets everywhere.
• Mold. Whether from humidity in the air, spills, or sweat, moisture trapped in the upholstery can lead to fungal growth.
• Bacteria. Germs can be transmitted through contact or airborne particles and spread viruses.
• Chemical emissions. Some materials emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, which can irritate the senses.

While there are many factors that could be causing allergic reactions, there are ways to help ensure it’s not coming from your upholstery.

Keeping Your Upholstery Clean

You may not be able to control the amount of pollen outdoors, but you can help mitigate the risk of indoor allergens with the following tips:

• Friendly fabrics. When shopping for new furniture, choose a design that’s less likely to trap allergens, such as microfiber or leather. Also make sure it has a low VOC rating.
• Monitor for mold. Be aware of excess moisture in the area, and check for signs of fungal growth, especially on outdoor furniture.
• Cleaning. Regularly vacuum your upholstery, including the crevices, under the cushions (if possible), and below the furniture itself. Deep clean the upholstery—following specific fabric instructions—at least once a year (more frequently if kids and pets are in the home).

With the right fabric and cleaning routine, you can help prevent potentially hazardous dust, mold, and bacteria from building up on upholstery and making you and your family sick. Contact JDog Carpet Cleaning & Floor Care to learn about our upholstery cleaning services to help maintain a safe and healthy home.