Ticks in a sofa — what should be done? - briefly
First, detach the cushions, vacuum every seam, and apply a registered acaricide to the entire sofa. Then launder or discard any contaminated fabrics and re‑inspect the area regularly.
Ticks in a sofa — what should be done? - in detail
Ticks can appear in upholstered furniture when pets or wildlife bring them indoors. Immediate action reduces the risk of bites and disease transmission.
First, isolate the affected piece. Move the couch to an outdoor area or a well‑ventilated room, and keep children and pets away. Wear disposable gloves and a mask while handling the item.
Next, perform a thorough inspection. Use a bright flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to examine seams, cushions, and the underside of the fabric. Remove all removable covers and wash them in hot water (minimum 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat. For non‑removable fabric, apply a vacuum with a HEPA filter, moving slowly over each surface to capture attached ticks and eggs. After vacuuming, immediately seal the bag and discard it.
Disinfection follows. Spray the upholstery with an EPA‑registered acaricide labeled for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions. Allow the product to remain on the surface for the recommended contact time before wiping with a clean, damp cloth. If the couch’s label permits, steam‑cleaning at 100 °C can kill remaining stages without chemicals.
For persistent infestations, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. They can apply residual treatments, such as permethrin‑based sprays or foggers, and provide a follow‑up schedule to monitor re‑infestation.
Prevent future occurrences by:
- Regularly grooming pets and applying veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives.
- Keeping doors and windows screened to limit wildlife entry.
- Vacuuming upholstered furniture weekly.
- Using slipcovers that can be laundered at high temperatures.
Finally, monitor household members for tick‑borne symptoms—fever, rash, fatigue—and seek medical attention if they appear. Prompt detection and comprehensive cleaning eliminate the hazard and protect health.