If you’re like most pet owners, you love your furry friend(s) and wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world. However, having pets does come with a few additional cleaning challenges – especially if you have a dog or cat who likes to shed! Here are seven cleaning hacks that will help keep your pet-friendly home clean and tidy.
Keep fur off the furniture
Another way to cut down on pet hair is to vacuum regularly – at least once a week, if not more. A handheld vacuum can be great for spot-cleaning, and if you have hardwood floors, be sure to use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the finish.
It’s also important to deep clean your pet-friendly home on a regular basis. This means vacuuming and shampooing your carpets, washing all of your bedding, and even steam cleaning your upholstered furniture. By doing a deep clean every few weeks, you can help keep pet hair and dander under control.
Clean paws
Fill a rimmed baking sheet with water and place it near the door to clean extra dirty paws after a walk. Before entering the house, have your dog step in the pan to wash off any mud or dirt, then towel dry.
Groom your dog or cat regularly – not only will this help reduce shedding, but it will also cut down on the amount of hair that ends up in your vacuum cleaner. If you have a long-haired pet, try using a rubber glove to remove loose hair – it’s an easy and effective way to reduce shedding.
Fresh-smelling litter box
By lining the bottom of the litter box with baking soda, you can eliminate litter box odors. When scooping, feel free to add a sprinkle. Baking soda absorbs odors and keeps your cat’s bathroom smelling fresh.
DIY solution for pet oopsies
One DIY solution for pet accidents is to mix together equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This natural cleaner will break down the urine molecules, making it easier to remove the stain from your carpet or upholstery. Just be sure to test it on an inconspicuous spot first to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric.
Keep your floors litter-free
Choose a litter box with a hood or a top-entry box to keep litter off your floors. If your feline friend is tracking litter after leaving their box, try putting a litter mat at the entrance to stop litter in its tracks. To avoid scratches on your hardwood floors, keep your dog’s nails trimmed on a regular basis. You could also try putting a throw rug near the door to catch any mud or dirt they may track in. Brush your pet on a regular basis and give them baths as needed to keep them clean and fresh-smelling; this will also help to keep your home smelling clean!
Keep the food bowls clean
One way to help keep your home clean when you have pets is to make sure their food bowls are always clean. Wipe them down after every mealtime, and wash them regularly with hot soapy water.
Keep-it-clean tip
When it comes to house cleaning hacks, the number one keep-it-clean tip is to vacuum regularly. But if you have pets, your vacuum probably doesn’t work as well as it used to. The good news is that there are now robot vacuums specifically designed for homes with pets. These nifty little machines are equipped with powerful suction and special filters that capture pet hair and dander. So if you’re looking for a way to keep your home clean and tidy, invest in a robot vacuum. Your furry friends will thank you!
