• Avoid moldy smelling or mold-stained furniture. Mold spores are almost impossible to eliminate in upholstery.
• Test paints on antique furniture for lead before sanding or if children are in the house.
• Clean furniture with a HEPA vacuum cleaner, or one that traps dust particles down to at least 0.1 micron in size. Dust mites may be present in the upholstery. If possible, remove and wash covers in hot water. Stay away from anti-dust mite treatments containing tannic acid and benzyl benzoate -- both are eye, skin and respiratory irritants.
• If the furniture is really dusty and hasn’t been covered with a protective drape, you may want to forgo it. Removable, washable slipcovers for sofas and chairs will cover unsightly stains, but don’t rely on them to block dust and mold.
• Even some dusty furniture can be rehabilitated if re-upholstered. Use organic cotton fabrics and fill. Use wool if you want a flame-retardant fill.
• When cleaning furniture, use environmentally friendly cleaners .

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