9 Tips On How To Keep Your Home Clean & Fresh With Pets

Pets are an amazing part of life. They serve as companions, best friends, and let’s be honest, family members. But as much as we love them, there’s one caveat to ownership that everyone hates – messes.

Animals are prone to cause chaos in the home, whether that’s by means of shedding, tracking dirt in or answering nature’s call. On the worst of days, it’s all three at once. Depending on the size and breed of your pet, the mess can be more or less significant.

But there is hope – while cleaning after pets can often be a challenge, there are several best practices anyone can use to reduce the time and effort they spend doing it. We’ve compiled some of our favourites in this article.

1. Invest in a Vacuum

A quality vacuum cleaner is arguably the most important tool when it comes to keeping your home clean after pets. Even if you have carpet-less floors, vacuums can help you pick up pet hair and dirt easily and quickly. If your budget allows it, splurge on a model with excellent suction power and specialty attachments such as upholstery tools.

2. Wash Fabrics Frequently

Soft surfaces, such as furniture, bedding, and carpets, can quickly become dirty if not kept up with. To reduce the amount of pet fur, dander, and odours these fabrics accumulate, be sure to vacuum them regularly and spot treat any stains. If possible, wash your pet’s bedding weekly, and furniture covers or throws every other week.

3. Designate an Area for Laundry

Designate a specific area for pet-related laundry such as bedding, towels, and clothing. Keeping all of these items in one spot will make them easier to clean and keep track of. You can even invest in a pet laundry hamper to store everything neatly, making it easy to grab whatever you need quickly.

4. Get Under Carpets and In Nooks and Crannies

It’s easy to forget about those hard to reach areas when it comes to cleaning. Pet hair and dirt can easily accumulate in tight corners, under furniture, and behind appliances.  Taking the time to get into those nooks and crannies once in a while will make a big difference in terms of how quickly you notice things getting  dirty again.

5. Use an Air Purifier

Air purifiers are a great way to reduce pet allergens in the air and keep  your home smelling fresh. Invest in one with a high-quality filter to ensure the best results. Look for models specifically designed for pet owners, as these will typically be more effective at capturing pet dander and odours.

6. Groom Regularly

Regular grooming is essential for keeping pet mess at bay. Not only will grooming make your pet look and smell better, but it also helps keep their coat healthy. It’s important to brush them regularly using the right tools for their coat type. You should also consider investing in a good shampoo to keep them looking and smelling great. 

7. Train Your Pet

No matter the age, it’s important to train your pet. Teaching them basic commands such as “sit” and “stay” can help you keep them from making a mess in the first place. Additionally, training ensures that your pet understands what is and isn’t allowed in the house – this can be especially helpful when it comes to potty training.

8. Use Floor Mats

Adding floor mats, especially in areas your pet frequents, can help reduce messes. These mats act as a barrier between your floors and whatever dirt or wetness that your pet might track in. Place them near the door, and make sure to clean them regularly so they don’t become breeding grounds for bacteria. 

9. Freshen the Air

There’s nothing quite like coming home to a musty dog odour on a warm summer day.  To combat these odours, you can use air fresheners or pet-safe cleaning products. These are specifically designed to eliminate pet smells from the air quickly and efficiently. Having your carpets and upholstery regularly cleaned by a professional can also help keep your home smelling fresh.

 

Conclusion

Pet ownership can be an incredibly rewarding, fulfilling experience. The only challenge is managing the mess that often comes with it. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can get yourself off to a great start. Just remember – it’s a labour of love!