How to get rid of dust mites in your sofa

Your sofa, while a cozy spot, can also harbor dust mites, tiny pests that flourish in warm, moist areas and can trigger allergies. Fortunately, you can take measures to both prevent and reduce dust mites in your sofa.

Do Dust Mites Live in Sofas?
How to Clean a Fabric Sofa to Get Rid of Dust Mites?
What Are Alternatives to Fabric Sofas?
How to Get Rid of Dust Mites in Sofa Cushions?
Pets and Dust Mite Allergens

Do Dust Mites Live in a Sofa?

Yes, dust mites can thrive in sofas and other upholstered furniture. As upholstered furniture provides a warm and humid environment, along with a readily available food source, dead skin cells, dust mites can quickly breed and multiply. 

 

Why Do Dust Mites Cause Allergies?

Their bodies, along with what they secrete and their feces, have certain proteins that can initiate allergic responses in people prone to allergies (Better Health Channel).

As you clean, remember, just killing dust mites solve your problem with allergies. It is important that you remove the minuscule allergens that float through the air every time it is disturbed, which is their bodies and feces.

How to Clean a Fabric Sofa to Get Rid of Dust Mites?

Regular cleaning of your fabric sofa can help to prevent the buildup of dust and allergens, which can reduce the likelihood of dust mites living in your furniture. Here are some steps you can take to clean a fabric couch:

 

Step 1: Vacuum Your Sofa Thoroughly. Begin by removing all loose cushions and vacuuming your sofa thoroughly. Use the crevice tool to clean between the cushions and in crevices where dust and debris tend to accumulate. Make sure you vacuum both sides of the cushions and the frame of the sofa.

Step 2: Spot Clean Any Stains or Spills. If there are any stains or spills on your sofa, spot clean them using a damp cloth and mild detergent. Be sure to test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the sofa first to ensure that it doesn't cause any discoloration or damage.

Step 3: Use a Dust Mite Spray. Next, consider using a spray that is designed to kill mites and their eggs. Follow the instructions on the label carefully, and be sure to apply the spray to all areas of the sofa, including the frame, cushions, and any other fabric surfaces.

Step 4: Use a Steam Cleaner. After applying the dust mite spray, use a steam cleaner to sanitise and deep clean the fabric of your sofa. A steam cleaner will kill dust mites and remove any remaining allergens from the fabric. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and take care not to saturate the fabric with too much water.

Step 5: Allow Your Sofa to Dry. After using the steam cleaner, allow your sofa to dry completely before using it again. Avoid sitting on the sofa or replacing the cushions until the fabric is completely dry to prevent mold or mildew from forming.

What Are Alternatives to Fabric Sofas?

If you are concerned about dust mites and other allergens, you may want to consider alternatives to fabric sofas. Leather sofas are a popular choice, as they are less likely to harbor dust mites and other allergens. Another alternative is microfiber sofas, which are designed to be easy to clean and less likely to attract dust and allergens. They are also affordable and come in a variety of colors and styles. Ultimately, the choice of sofa material will depend on your personal preferences and needs.

 

How to Get Rid of Dust Mites in Sofa Cushions?

Sofa cushions often accumulate dead skin cells, pet dander, and other organic materials, which are food sources for dust mites. The fabric and stuffing in cushions create a warm and often humid environment, especially in frequently used sofas. Clean the cushions regularly, including vacuuming with HEPA filters, washing removable covers in hot water, and using dust mite-proof covers, can help in reducing their presence in sofa cushions. However, completely eliminating dust mites from these environments can be challenging due to their microscopic size and ability to thrive in household dust.

Pets and Dust Mite Allergens

Pets, particularly furry ones like dogs and cats, can inadvertently contribute to dust mite problems in your home. Their dander, or tiny flakes of skin, along with the fur they shed, provides an ideal food source for dust mites, especially when it accumulates on sofa, carpets, and bedding. Since it's not always feasible to keep pets off these surfaces, regular grooming and cleaning can help reduce the amount of dander and fur available to dust mites. Additionally, frequent vacuuming with HEPA filters and washing pet bedding in hot water can further minimise dust mite populations.

 

Read our full guide on how to get rid of dust mites in every room in your house.