Buying a second-hand lounge can be exciting—you might find a unique piece, save a lot of money, and give new life to furniture that might otherwise go to waste. It’s also a sustainable choice, reducing landfill and supporting a circular economy.
But here’s the catch: while second-hand couches can look perfectly fine on the outside, what’s hidden inside may tell a different story. Without proper cleaning, used lounges can carry allergens, bacteria, pests, and odours that affect not only the comfort of your home but also your health.
Before you settle into your new pre-loved couch, let’s uncover the potential risks and the safest ways to refresh it.
The Hidden Health Risks of Second-Hand Couches
Even the cleanest-looking second-hand sofa can hide years of buildup. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
1. Dust Mites & Allergens
Fabric lounges are the perfect environment for dust mites. These tiny organisms thrive in upholstery and feed on dead skin cells. While invisible to the naked eye, they can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes, asthma flare-ups, or eczema in sensitive individuals.
2. Bacteria & Germs
Everyday life leaves its mark—sweat, food spills, pet accidents, and even skin oils sink deep into cushions and padding. Over time, bacteria grow in these areas, creating hygiene concerns. For families with young children, this can be particularly worrying, as kids often nap or play on couches.
3. Mould & Mildew
If a couch has been stored in a damp garage, basement, or shed, moisture can lead to mould and mildew inside the fabric or foam. Not only does this cause unpleasant odours, but inhaling mould spores can irritate your lungs, trigger allergies, and, in severe cases, pose more serious respiratory risks.
4. Bed Bugs & Pests
Second-hand furniture is one of the most common ways bed bugs spread. These pests nest in seams, zippers, and crevices, waiting to hitch a ride into your home. They can also come with fleas or even cockroach eggs. Once they spread, infestations are costly and stressful to eradicate.
5. Lingering Odours
Even if the couch looks spotless, smells tell another story. Smoke, strong perfumes, or pet odours seep into the fibres and padding, making the lounge feel stale. Unlike surface dirt, these smells can’t be eliminated with a quick spray—they need deeper treatment.
How to Safely Clean a Second-Hand Lounge
Giving your pre-loved couch a proper clean is crucial before using it in your home. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Step 1: Inspect Thoroughly Before Bringing It In
Before purchasing, check seams, cushions, and the underside of the lounge for pests or water damage. Use a flashlight to spot tiny bugs or mould growth. If the couch shows signs of infestation or structural damage, it’s best to walk away.
Step 2: Vacuum Deeply
Once you bring it home, start with a high-powered vacuum. Use attachments to reach into every crack and seam. Go over both sides of cushions, the back, and under the seating area. This removes loose debris, pet hair, and surface dust.
Step 3: Steam or Heat Treat (If Suitable)
Steam cleaning is one of the most effective methods to kill dust mites, germs, and bacteria. Be careful, though: excess moisture can damage leather or delicate fabrics. Always test a small hidden spot first and check the manufacturer’s label.
Step 4: Disinfect Upholstery
Fabric: Lightly spray with a fabric-safe disinfectant or upholstery cleaner. Avoid soaking the material to prevent mould.
Leather: Use a specialised leather cleaner, followed by a nourishing conditioner. This not only sanitises but also restores suppleness and shine.
Step 5: Deodorise Naturally
Baking soda works wonders for absorbing odours. Sprinkle it generously over the surface, let it sit for several hours (or overnight if possible), then vacuum it off. For deeper odours, activated charcoal bags placed nearby can also help.
Step 6: Tackle Stains Properly
For food, drink, or ink stains, use fabric-appropriate cleaning solutions. Always blot stains—never rub—as rubbing can push them deeper into the fibres.
Step 7: Professional Inspection (Optional but Recommended)
If you notice mouldy smells, stubborn stains, or sagging cushions that don’t bounce back, it’s time to bring in professionals. DIY cleaning has its limits, especially when it comes to sanitisation and restoring comfort.
Why Professional Help Makes a Difference
A couch isn’t just another piece of furniture—it’s where you relax, spend time with family, and sometimes even sleep. That’s why ensuring it’s safe and comfortable is so important.
Professional lounge repair and restoration services go beyond surface-level cleaning. They can:
- Sanitise deeply to remove hidden bacteria, germs, and allergens.
- Restore leather to prevent cracks, fading, and stiffness.
- Repair and refill cushions for proper comfort and support.
- Eliminate odours at the source, not just mask them.
- Extend your lounge’s lifespan, making your second-hand purchase a long-term investment.
Ready to Enjoy Your Second-Hand Lounge Safely?
A pre-loved couch can be a wonderful addition to your home, but it deserves the right care before you and your family can truly enjoy it. With the proper cleaning, sanitising, and restoration, your lounge can feel fresh, safe, and comfortable—without the hidden health risks.
If you’ve just picked up a second-hand couch or have one at home that needs refreshing, Lounge Repair Guys can help. We specialise in deep cleaning, leather restoration, cushion refilling, stain removal, and odour elimination—everything you need to make your couch feel like new again.
Get in touch with Lounge Repair Guys today and let us restore your lounge to its best condition—so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy it with peace of mind.
