As homeowners, it’s easy to focus on our floors when cleaning. However, did you know that your couch, chairs and other upholstery could be housing more dirt and dander than you may be comfortable with? Not only may this cause unpleasant odors and annoying allergens, but the South Florida humidity creates the perfect environment for mildew spores, which can lay dormant and grow into mold over time. This can pose serious health concerns for you and your family.
Not all dirt can be seen by the naked eye. By now you may have heard that indoor air is up to 70 times more polluted than outdoor air, but did you know there are multiple factors causing this? Microscopic particles, dust mites, mold spores and other pollutants can invade your home and upholstery causing allergies and even health issues.
Prevention:
When purchasing your furniture, make sure you’re thinking about the upholstery that properly fits into your family lifestyle, from thicker fabrics for heavier usage to synthetic fibers designed specifically to prevent pollutants. Certain synthetic fibers can even dry faster than natural fibers to prevent mildew and mold growth. Also, pretreating the fabric can prevent staining and odors from sticking.
Treatment:
Use cold water when treating stains naturally as some stains may set in using hot water. Start with a clean cloth and be sure you are cleaning the upholstery as intended. Be careful when using your favorite cleaning products and start with a small, non-visible area to ensure the fabric doesn’t change or smudge. As for odors or mildew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with a cup of water. Test for discoloration on an inconspicuous area. For pet odors, try mixing lemon juice and water. Be sure to watch out for any discoloration.
For lingering odors or stains that just don’t want to leave, remember, we are here for you. At Stanley Steemer of South Florida, we take pride in being the experts of cleaning. Our patented steam technique doesn’t just freshen up your upholstery, it kills pollutants and mold so that your upholstery will look and smell new.
Your home is your paradise, so make sure you’re preventing any unwanted visitors such as dust mites, microscopic pollutants and even allergens and asthma inducing particles.
Call Steemer of South Florida today for your FREE quote. Together we can create a cleaning game plan that leaves you with a happier and healthier home.