As the UK experiences soaring temperatures and high pollen counts, experts are warning of a seasonal "pollen
bomb" that could leave millions of hay fever sufferers reaching for the tissues.
While it's easy to think you're escaping pollen once you're indoors, that's not always the case. Pollen is carried into our homes on clothing, shoes, hair and even pets, where it settles into carpets, curtains and soft furnishings, including your sofa.
Because your sofa is one of the most-used pieces of furniture in the home, it can quickly become a hotspot for pollen, dust and other allergens. Every time you sit down or fluff a cushion, these particles can be disturbed and released back into the air.
With around 13 million people in the UK
affected by hay fever every year*, keeping your sofa clean during allergy
season can help reduce allergen build-up and create a fresher living space.
To help you prepare for the summer months Sofa Club want to share their top tips for allergy-proofing your sofa.
1. Vacuum your sofa more often
During periods of high pollen, aim to vacuum your sofa two to three times a week using the upholstery attachment.
Don't forget the areas that are easiest to miss, including seams, underneath cushions and down the sides of the sofa,
where pollen and dust naturally collect. If you have one, a vacuum with a HEPA
filter can help trap allergens instead of blowing them back into the air.
2. Wash throws and removable covers regularly
Throws and removable cushion covers are the first surfaces to collect pollen.
Washing them regularly throughout allergy season helps prevent allergens from building up in your upholstery while keeping your sofa looking and smelling fresh.
3. Clean up spills as soon as they happen
Spills aren't just a stain risk - they can also encourage bacteria and mould if moisture is left sitting in upholstery.
Always blot spills with a clean cloth rather than rubbing them, then clean the area with an upholstery-safe cleaner after testing it on a hidden section of fabric first.
4. Refresh your sofa naturally
If your sofa is starting to feel a little less fresh, baking soda is an easy solution.
Sprinkle it over the upholstery, leave it for around 15 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly. It helps neutralise odours and
freshens the fabric between deeper cleans.
5. Deep clean once or twice a year
While regular vacuuming removes everyday dust and pollen, it won't reach everything trapped deep within the fabric.
Steam cleaning or professional upholstery cleaning once or twice a year helps remove embedded allergens, dust mites and
dirt while extending the life of your sofa.
6. Improve airflow around your sofa
Where you position your sofa can also make a difference.
Avoid pushing it tightly against external walls, where condensation is more likely to build up. Leaving a small gap
behind the sofa encourages airflow and helps reduce the risk of damp and mould.
Other ways to reduce pollen inside your home
Alongside cleaning your sofa, there are a few simple habits that can help minimise pollen indoors:
· Remove your shoes before entering the house.
· Change your clothes after spending time outside.
· Shower and wash your hair before bed to stop pollen transferring onto
furniture and bedding.
· Keep windows closed when pollen counts are highest, especially during
the early morning and evening.
· Dust with a damp microfibre cloth rather than a dry duster to avoid
redistributing pollen into the air.
Why keeping your sofa clean matters during hay fever season
Your sofa is where you spend time relaxing, watching TV and unwinding—but during allergy season, it can also become a
hidden collection point for pollen and other airborne particles.
By vacuuming regularly, washing removable covers and giving your sofa a seasonal deep clean, you can reduce allergen
build-up, keep your furniture looking its best and create a healthier home
environment throughout the summer.
Sources
·
Royal Meteorological Society – The MetMatters Guide to Hay Fever and the Pollen
Season
UK Health Security Agency – Hay fever and airborne allergens
