How to Keep Your Home Clean with Pets

Living with pets can be great fun, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring your home stays clean. After all, pet hair and messes can accumulate quickly! Fortunately, there are a few simple tricks that you can use to keep your home sparkling clean while sharing it with a menagerie of furry companions.

Statistics show Americans own around 80 million cats and over 60 million dogs. And even though having our four-legged friends around may make everyday life more lively and fun, keeping your home spotless can sometimes be quite challenging—especially when dogs and cats shed several hundred hairs a day. Here are some effective tips to help you easily keep your home free from pet mess and messes.

Vacuum regularly

Even if you love your pet, they can make a mess. Vacuuming regularly removes pet hair and dander from carpets and upholstery. A long-haired cat needs to be vacuumed more often than a short-haired rabbit. Vacuuming also reduces allergens, making it ideal for households with young children.

Use pet-friendly cleaning products

Many regular household cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can harm both you and your pet. To ensure your home is safe for both of them, opt for pet-friendly cleaners that use only natural ingredients without harsh synthetic chemicals or fragrances. Look out for plant-based formulas without added dyes or artificial scents, plus many have anti-bacterial properties to leave surfaces hygienic and sparkling!

Wipe down surfaces frequently

One of the best ways to keep your home clean when living with pets is to wipe down surfaces frequently. This helps to remove fur, dander, and other allergens that can otherwise circulate throughout the home. It’s especially important to use a damp cloth on hard surfaces such as tables and counters to prevent dirt from falling into the surface over time. You might also consider using a HEPA filter vacuum to reduce pet-related allergies.

Bathe and groom your pets regularly

Just like humans, pets need regular baths and grooming to stay healthy. Not only will this help make them smell better, but it can also significantly reduce shedding and maintain their coat in optimal condition. If you’re not comfortable giving your pet a full bath yourself, there are plenty of professional groomers out there who can do the job for you. Additionally, many vets offer bathing services, so it’s worth checking with yours if they offer this.

Keep litter boxes and pet bedding clean

Maintaining clean litter boxes and bedding is crucial for pet and human health. Regular cleaning prevents odor buildup and the spread of harmful germs. Cloth pet beds require frequent washing or removable covers for easy cleaning. Neglecting cleanliness can lead to sickness for pets and humans. Cleanliness also promotes a comfortable and pleasant living environment. Pet owners should prioritize regular cleaning as a part of pet care.

Use air purifiers and open windows for ventilation

Air purifiers are important in achieving this goal when it comes to keeping your home clean with pets. Air purifiers can help reduce dust and other particulates in the air, eliminating odors from pet fur and dander. Consider adding one to each room where your pet spends time, like the bedroom or family room. Another tip is to ensure proper ventilation by opening windows to let fresh air in periodically, which can help circulate the air and keep things smelling fresh.

Train your pets to stay off furniture and countertops

Teaching your pet to avoid furniture and countertops is important in maintaining a clean home. Start by using positive reinforcement, such as giving your pet a treat or a pat when they keep away from certain areas of the house. Additionally, try to make off-limits items less appealing to your pet. Place blankets or sheets on the furniture to discourage them from climbing on it, and use scents like citrus to keep them away from countertops.

Store pet food in airtight containers

Storing pet food properly is another key element of keeping your home clean. Pet food can quickly attract pests such as cockroaches and rats if not stored correctly – so use containers with tight-fitting lids to keep pet food safe and contamination-free. Additionally, this will help preserve the freshness of the food, ensuring that your pet gets all the nutrients they need while keeping your home clean and pest-free.

Get some latex gloves

Latex gloves are an essential tool for cleaning with pets. They protect you from contact with pet hair, animal dander, other allergens, and bacteria and germs that can make humans ill. When cleaning with pets, wearing latex gloves is suggested to keep your hands safe. Make sure your gloves fit properly – too tight and they may be uncomfortable; too loose and they will not provide the necessary protection against contagions. In addition, wear long sleeves and an apron to keep you and your clothes clean while you work.

Skewer some baby wipes

Baby wipes are an indispensable cleaning aid for households with pets. Not only do they quickly pick up spills and messes, but their gentle formula contains gentle cleaners that can help remove stubborn pet stains. Plus, since these come pre-moistened, there’s no need to mix solutions or use harsh chemicals – making them perfect even for households with young children. Baby wipes offer an efficient yet effective solution to maintaining a tidy household while having pets.

FAQs

How do I clean up pet hair?

Vacuum regularly and use a damp cloth to capture pet hairs.

How often should I clean pet areas?

Cleaning pet areas should be done every week for optimal results.

How do I get rid of pet odors?

Regularly replacing pet bedding, using an air purifier, and using specialty sprays can help to reduce odors.

How do I clean pet messes?

Immediately clean up pet messes using a spot or enzymatic cleaner for optimal results.