15 Cleaning Tips Every Pet Owner Must Know

(PHOTO BY ANTON/UNSPLASH)

As a pet owner, keeping your home clean can feel like a constant battle against fur, odors, and messes. But with the right strategies and tools, maintaining a fresh and tidy space is entirely achievable. Here, we’ll explore essential cleaning tips that every pet owner should know—from clever hacks to daily routines; these tips will help you manage pet-related cleaning challenges effectively, ensuring your home stays welcoming and comfortable for both you and your furry friends!

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Cover Scratch Marks Using Gel Stain

Pets often leave scratch marks on wooden surfaces, which can be quite an eyesore. A practical and cost-effective solution is to use a gel stain that closely matches the color of the wood. Apply the stain carefully over the scratches, ensuring full coverage. Once dry, apply a light coat of varnish to seal and protect the area. It’s a simple DIY fix that can make a big difference in maintaining the aesthetics of your wooden surfaces.

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Deodorize Upholstery with Baking Soda

Pet odors can linger on furniture, making your living space less inviting. Baking soda, a natural and safe odor absorber, is your ally in combating these smells. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected upholstery and let it sit for about 30 minutes. The baking soda works to neutralize and absorb the odors during this time. Afterward, vacuum up the baking soda using a handheld vacuum or a hose attachment.

(PHOTO BY M.H./PIXABAY)

Use Duct Tape

Removing pet hair from fabrics can be challenging, but duct tape offers a surprisingly effective solution. Wrap some duct tape around your hand with the sticky side out for a quick fix. Wrap the tape around an old paint roller for larger areas, such as sofas or rugs. Use this makeshift lint roller to lift pet hair from various surfaces. The adhesive quality of the duct tape makes it effective at picking up stubborn pet hair that vacuums may miss.

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Wear Rubber Gloves

Rubber gloves are not just for cleaning; they can be a game-changer in removing pet hair from furniture. Just put on a pair of rubber gloves and gently run your hands over the surfaces of your furniture. The static charge from the gloves attracts pet hair, clumping it together for easy removal. This method is beneficial for getting into tight corners and crevices where pet hair often accumulates. After you’re done, rinse the gloves under water to remove the collected hair.

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Use a Fabric Conditioner Sheet

Maintaining a fresh-smelling home can be difficult with pets. A simple trick is to use fabric conditioner sheets. Place a sheet under the cushions of your sofas or inside your pet’s bedding. These sheets neutralize and mask pet odors, leaving a pleasant scent in their place. It’s a subtle yet effective way to keep your living spaces smelling fresh. This method is especially useful for areas where pets spend a lot of time.

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Protect Furniture with Throws

Pets can be tough on furniture, leaving behind hair, dirt, and sometimes even scratches. An easy solution is to cover your furniture with throws. Choose throws that are easy to wash and match your decor. This way, you can quickly remove and clean them, keeping your furniture protected and neat. They can be easily swapped out and laundered, saving your furniture from wear and tear while adding a touch of style to your home.

(PHOTO BY PIXABAY/PEXELS)

Use Sticky Sheets

StickySheets are also an excellent option for an effective and hassle-free way to remove pet hair from furniture. These large, adhesive sheets are designed to quickly pick up pet hair from surfaces like sofas and chairs. All you have to do is remove the backing, press the sheet onto the hairy area, and lift. The hair sticks to the sheet, leaving your furniture clean. StickySheets can cover a large area at once, making them more efficient than smaller lint rollers for big cleaning tasks.

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Freshen Up Vacuum Cleaners

Over time, vacuum cleaners can start to emit unpleasant odors, mainly when used frequently to clean up pet hair. A simple solution is to place an unused fabric softener sheet into the vacuum cleaner bag or canister. As you vacuum, the sheet releases its fresh scent, neutralizing the smell of pet hair and old lint. This trick helps keep your rooms smelling fresh as you clean, enhancing the overall cleaning experience.

(PHOTO BY ANNA SHVETS/PEXELS)

Use Enzyme Cleaners for Pet Stains

Enzyme cleaners are a must-have when dealing with pet stains. These cleaners contain particular bacteria that break down and digest the organic matter, causing stains and odors, such as urine or vomit. The process leaves your carpets and upholstery spotless and odor-free. Enzyme cleaners are particularly effective because they tackle the root cause of the stain and odor rather than just masking them.

(PHOTO BY KAROLINA GRABOWSKA/PEXELS)

Save Your Floors Using an Old Towel and Plant Sprayer

One of the challenges of having pets is keeping your floors clean, especially during wet or muddy weather. A practical solution is to keep an old towel and a plant sprayer filled with water near your entrance. Use the towel to wipe off your pet’s paws as they come indoors and the sprayer to rinse away any stubborn dirt. This simple routine can prevent dirt and mud from being tracked through your house, saving your floors from stains and keeping your home cleaner.

(PHOTO BY AYYEEEAYYEEE/PEXELS)

Wash Pet Clothing and Beds

Regularly washing pet clothing and bedding is crucial in controlling odors and maintaining a clean environment. Over time, pet dander and natural oils can accumulate on these items, leading to unpleasant smells. Washing them every two weeks or as needed, using pet-safe detergents, can significantly reduce these odors. This routine keeps your pet’s belongings fresh and helps maintain your home’s overall cleanliness. Also, remember to check care labels for washing instructions to ensure the longevity of these items.

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Make Kitty Litter Cleanup Hassle-Free Using Plastic Garbage Bags

Changing cat litter can be messy and time-consuming. To simplify the process, line the litter box with a plastic garbage bag before adding the litter. When it’s time to change the litter, lift out the bag, dispose of it, and replace it with a new one. This method makes cleanup much quicker and cleaner, reducing the chance of litter spillage and making the task more manageable. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in your litter box maintenance routine.

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Protect Doors from Scratches Using Plexiglass

Doors can suffer from scratches and damage caused by pets, especially near the bottom, where pets tend to scratch. To protect your doors, install a piece of plexiglass. Cut the plexiglass to fit the lower part of the door, where scratches are most likely to occur, and securely attach it. This clear, durable material acts as a barrier against scratches, maintaining the appearance of your doors.

(PHOTO BY JULIANE SANCHEZ/PEXELS)

Scoop Out Litter Boxes Frequently

To maintain a clean and odor-free home, it’s important to scoop out your cat’s litter box regularly. Doing this two or three times a day can significantly reduce odors and keep the box clean. Frequent scooping prevents the buildup of waste, which can quickly lead to unpleasant smells permeating your home. This routine also makes your cat more comfortable and willing to use the litter box, promoting good hygiene and preventing accidents outside the box.

(PHOTO BY COTTONBRO STUDIO/PEXELS)

Use a Lint Roller

A lint roller is an indispensable tool for any pet owner. It’s perfect for quickly picking up pet hair from furniture, clothing, and other fabrics. Regular use of a lint roller on your upholstery, drapes, and even your clothes can significantly reduce the amount of pet hair in your home. This is particularly helpful for those with allergies or anyone wanting to keep their living spaces looking neat and hair-free.