Allergy-Friendly Home: How to Clean Upholstery Properly

Around 30% of Germans suffer from allergies — many of them to dust mites, pollen or pet hair. It's precisely in our own homes, where we want to feel safe and comfortable, that the most allergens lurk: in mattresses, sofas and carpets.
The Biggest Allergy Triggers at Home
Dust Mites
The most common indoor allergy trigger. Mites live in mattresses, pillows, sofa cushions and carpets. Their droppings cause allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose and breathing problems.
Pollen
Pollen enters the house through open windows and settles on upholstered furniture and carpets. There, it can trigger allergic reactions for weeks.
Pet Hair and Dander
Pet allergens are particularly persistent. They cling to upholstery, cushions and carpets and are difficult to remove.
Mould Spores
Damp upholstery and carpets can become a breeding ground for mould — an often underestimated health risk.
8 Tips for a Low-Allergen Home
1. Vacuum Regularly — But Properly
Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter (H13 or H14). Standard vacuum cleaners just stir up fine particles. Vacuum upholstered furniture and mattresses at least weekly.
2. Wash Bedding at 60°C
Wash bedding, pillowcases and sofa covers at least every two weeks at 60°C. At this temperature, mites are reliably killed.
3. Use Mite-Proof Covers (Encasings)
Special allergy-friendly covers for mattresses and pillows enclose mites and their droppings.
4. Control Humidity
Keep humidity below 50%. Mites and mould need moisture to survive. A hygrometer and regular ventilation help.
5. Choose Upholstery with Smooth Surfaces
When buying new furniture, choose fabrics that are easy to clean: microfibre, faux leather or smooth cotton covers.
6. Have Carpets Professionally Cleaned Regularly
Carpets are true allergen reservoirs. A professional deep clean removes mites, pollen and pet hair from deep within the fibres.
7. Minimise Cushions and Soft Toys
Every additional textile is a potential allergen collector. Reduce decorative cushions and wash soft toys regularly.
8. Professional Deep Cleaning Every 3–4 Months
For allergy sufferers, regular professional cleaning is the best protection. Professional extraction equipment reaches allergens that no household vacuum can remove.
Hypoallergenic Professional Cleaning
At Octoputz, we exclusively use hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly cleaning products that:
- Contain no aggressive chemicals
- Are safe for children and pets
- Effectively neutralise allergens
- Are biodegradable
Our Premium cleaning includes a special anti-allergen treatment and disinfection, especially recommended for allergy-prone households.
Our Services for Allergy Sufferers in Munich
- Sofa cleaning from €119 (Premium with anti-allergens from €179)
- Mattress cleaning from €79 (Premium from €109)
- Carpet cleaning from €50
All cleaning is carried out on-site in Munich — with no travel costs.
Advice and booking: 0176 651 58 719 or via WhatsApp.