Sharing your life with a pet can be an absolute joy. The unconditional love you get from a furry friend is a fantastic reward, but it must be said that rooming with kitty and doggo can sometimes get complicated.
Just because you own pets doesn’t mean your home can’t be clean and tidy! Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your home orderly without spending hours cleaning.
Preparing the home
First, make sure your property accepts animals. To find out more about the rules regarding pets and condos, read this article.
Choosing your furniture wisely
Prevent your sofas from being destroyed by your cat’s claws! Invest in tear-resistant furniture that is easy to clean. Microfibre, micro-suede or semi-aniline leather, for example, are all excellent choices.
Investing in throws
Purchase some pretty throws that you can leave on your bed, your couch and any other area that seems appropriate. These blankets will help extend the life of your bedding and furniture, while also guarding against pet hair.
Protecting the floor
Like children, cats and dogs sometimes make small messes when eating. Put a placemat under your furry friend’s feeding station; you can clean it regularly, ideally after meals, and protect your floor from water and other spills.
You should also place small carpets in your entrance. They’ll capture the dust, snow and dirt trapped under your puppy’s paws.
Buying the right bed for your buddy
A waterproof bed or one made out of rigid material will be easier to clean. Don’t like the texture of the one you chose? Put a soft blanket over the structure.
Cleaning stains and accidents properly
Cleaning up pet hair
Slip on a latex glove and run it over every surface. Hair sticks to it like magic! For clothing, stick to the classic clothes brush.
Next, vacuum the entire house. You can also use the small vacuum nozzle to clean your furniture. And don’t forget the carpets!
To make cleaning easier, consider using a vacuum cleaner with a suitable filter and attachments designed to pick up pet hair.
Dealing with little accidents
Your dog still isn’t housebroken? Get ready for accidents to become a regular part of your life for the next few months. Always keep spray cleaning products within arm’s reach. The quicker you deal with a mess, the better it is.
Once the stain has been soaked up with a cloth, use a solution of soft soap and lukewarm water to scrub the damage. For urine, vomit and other organic stains, opt for an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for use around pets, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid ammonia-based products, particularly when cleaning cat urine stains.
Also, keep your pet away from the area while cleaning and until the surface is completely dry, as directed by the product manufacturer.
Finally, don’t forget to wash your furry friend’s towels and throws regularly. Wash your pet’s blankets, beds and toys regularly, depending on how often they are used and how dirty they become. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of pet hair, dirt and odours.
Looking for a more eco-friendly way to clean? Look no further than this article!
Develop a simple routine for a clean environment
Always keep a towel near the entrance. As soon as your dog enters the house, wipe its paws with a damp towel or rinse them with lukewarm water if they are particularly dirty. During the winter, this habit is especially useful for removing salt and de-icing product residue. Make sure to dry your dog’s paws thoroughly, especially between the paw pads.
Bring your pets to see a groomer regularly. How often your pet needs grooming depends on its coat type and individual needs. Regular brushing and nail trimming when needed also help maintain good hygiene. Keep in mind that dogs with double coats should not routinely be shaved, as their coats serve a protective purpose.
Finally, don’t forget that a stimulated, healthy dog that gets enough exercise is often a calmer dog. Walks, games and activities suited to your dog’s age, breed and physical condition contribute to its well-being and can help reduce certain behaviours associated with boredom.
Key takeaways
- Invest in furniture that will last and accessories that protect your home from your pet’s hair and dirt.
- To avoid build-up and stains, clean every room regularly and take care of little accidents as they occur.
- Set up a simple routine that will save you a lot of grief.