A GP has issued a crucial warning about the health risks posed by old furniture, particularly when canine and feline friends are involved.
The alert comes as new research reveals damning statistics about British homeowners' mattress and sofa replacement habits.
NHS GP Dr Hana Patel, speaking to Superdrug Online Doctor, cautioned that ageing furniture "can pose genuine health risks", pointing out particular concerns about pets spreading bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli onto household surfaces.
"Their paws may carry dirt or parasites like fleas and ticks onto surfaces where you relax or sleep," Dr Patel warned.
Pets could bring parasites like ticks and fleas into your bed
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The pet-related risks extend beyond bacteria, with Dr Patel noting that "pet dander and fur can increase allergens" in the home.
Despite these concerns, she acknowledged that "sharing furniture with pets can be comforting", so it's important to mitigate these risks if you do own furry friends.
Dr Patel emphasised the importance of regular maintenance, urging individuals "to clean upholstery regularly and consider protective covers".
The concerning home maintenance behaviour extends beyond pet owners, with a study by Roseland Furniture uncovering that one in forty British homeowners have never replaced their mattress.
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Even more worrying, approximately one in 20 has never replaced their sofa.
These figures are particularly troubling given that most experts recommend replacing mattresses every seven to 10 years and sofas every seven to 15 years.
The research shone a startling light on how homeowners significantly exceed recommended furniture lifespans, potentially exposing themselves and their families to various health hazards that accumulate over years of use.
Dr Patel explained: "An ageing mattress often accumulates dust mites, mould, and allergens that trigger asthma, allergies, or skin irritation."
Sofas tend to accumulate dirt, dust, and bacteria over the years
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The GP also warned about the physical consequences of deteriorating furniture, including its loss of support, leading to "chronic back and neck pain, and worsening sleep quality and overall health".
The concern is also extended to living room furniture that harbours "dust, bacteria, and allergens in its worn fabric and padding, contributing to respiratory issues and skin conditions", Dr Patel warned.
She added that structural breakdowns in sofas "can also cause poor posture when sitting, leading to musculoskeletal discomfort".
The GP concluded that "replacing very old or damaged items helps maintain a healthier environment, supporting better respiratory health, hygiene, and musculoskeletal well-being for you and your family".