Written by Andrea Reviewed by Daniel

How to Keep a Clean House When You Have Dogs (or Cats!)

Living with pets is brilliant, but let’s be honest: sometimes it feels like you’re fighting a losing battle against fur, muddy paw prints, and that distinctive pet smell that seems to follow you everywhere.

What if we told you there’s a way to have the best of both worlds? To come home to a house that’s spotless and fresh, while still enjoying all the cuddles and chaos your four-legged friends bring?

We’ve cracked the code on effortless pet friendly cleaning, and it’s about to transform your daily routine. Get ready to say goodbye to constant hoovering and hello to a home that actually stays clean, yes, even with your furry family members.

Table of Contents

Invest In Pet Friendly Furniture

Furniture and pets don’t always mix well, especially when fur and claws come into play. Go for pet friendly materials like leather, faux leather, or tightly woven fabrics that are easier to clean and less prone to damage. If a new sofa isn’t in the budget, washable slipcovers or throws can be an excellent alternative to protect your furniture.

Choose furniture designs that are durable and easy to maintain. For instance, avoid chairs with open-weave fabrics or intricate details where fur and dirt can get trapped. Having practical furniture choices will make it easier to keep your home looking and feeling fresh.

Control Shedding With Smart Cleaning Tools

Pet hair tends to get everywhere, but investing in the right cleaning tools can make all the difference. A vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair is a must, as these often include specialised attachments for upholstery and hard to reach places. Robot vacuums are also a great option for daily maintenance, as they can keep your floors fur free with minimal effort.

Beyond vacuums, keep lint rollers and pet hair removal brushes on hand for quick touch-ups on furniture and clothing. A rubber glove rubbed over fabric can also help gather fur effectively. Incorporating these tools into your routine will save you time and keep your home fur free.

Create A Designated Pet Area

Giving your pet their own designated area can help contain messes and keep your home more organised. Set up a cosy corner with a bed or crate, and store toys, leads, and other accessories in bins or baskets nearby. Not only does this keep your home tidier, but it also gives your pet a comfortable place to relax.

For feeding areas, use washable mats under food and water bowls to catch spills and crumbs. This keeps your floors clean and makes it easier to tidy up after mealtimes. Regularly clean the bowls and mats to prevent odours and bacteria from building up.

Clean Accidents Immediately

Even the best trained pets can have accidents, and cleaning them up quickly is essential to prevent lingering stains or smells. Blot any liquid messes with paper towels before they soak in, then use an enzymatic cleaner to break down odours and stains at the source. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals, as these can be harmful to pets.

Keep a small kit with cleaning supplies like paper towels, a spray bottle of enzymatic cleaner, and gloves in a convenient location. Having everything ready to go will make it easier to tackle accidents right away and keep your home smelling fresh.

Keep Your Floors Clean

Your floors endure the brunt of pet messes, from shedding fur to muddy pawprints. Hard floors like tile, laminate, or wood are much easier to clean than carpets, but even carpets can be managed with regular maintenance. Vacuum high traffic areas daily and do a deeper clean weekly, especially in rooms where your pet spends the most time.

For added protection, consider placing rugs or runners in entryways and other high traffic zones. These can catch dirt and fur before it spreads, and they’re easy to wash or shake out as needed. A spray mop is also a quick and convenient way to keep hard floors spotless.

Wash Pet Bedding Often

Pet bedding can quickly become a source of odour if not cleaned regularly. Choose machine washable beds or blankets and wash them weekly to keep smells at bay. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash can help neutralise odours and leave everything smelling fresh.

Don’t forget to wash other soft furnishings, like throws or cushion covers, that your pets use frequently. A clean sleeping area will not only keep your home smelling better but also help your pet stay healthier.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy

Having cleaning tools within reach can make it easier to keep up with messes as they happen. Store a small caddy of supplies in key areas like the kitchen or living room, where pet activity is highest. Include essentials like a lint roller, a handheld vacuum, pet safe sprays, and cloths for quick clean-ups.

person cleaning carpet with white vinegar

By having these items readily available, you’ll be more likely to tackle messes as they occur, rather than letting them pile up. A little effort in the moment can save you a lot of work later on.

Let Fresh Air In

Pets can bring in distinct smells, and proper ventilation is an easy way to keep your home smelling fresh. Open your windows for a few minutes each day, even in colder months, to improve air circulation and reduce odours. If you live in a small space or have multiple pets, an air purifier with a HEPA filter can also help remove allergens and keep the air clean.

Adding houseplants like spider plants or peace lilies can improve indoor air quality while adding a touch of greenery to your space. Just ensure any plants you choose are safe for pets.

Your Path To A Tidy, Pet Friendly Home

Keeping a clean house when you have pets is entirely possible with a bit of planning and consistency. By adopting these simple habits, you can maintain a tidy and welcoming home while enjoying all the love your pets bring.

If you found these tips useful, share them with fellow pet owners who might also benefit from a cleaner, pet friendly home!

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