Pets make great companions and have a positive effect on our health and well-being. However, the downside is that pets in the home leave behind pet fur and dander. They may track dirt inside, stain the furniture, or spill their water bowl. Follow these tips for house cleaning for pet owners to help you maintain a cleaner home.
1. House Cleaning for Pet Owners: Begin with a Clean Pet
Different breeds have different grooming needs, but all will benefit from an occasional bath with a gentle animal shampoo. Rinse your pet off with plain water. Regular bathing will help keep your pet’s coat clean and smelling nice. Long-haired pets should be professionally groomed or else learn how to do it yourself.
2. Make an Animal Cleaning Station
Set up a pet cleaning station by the door where your pet goes outside. Include a shallow tray of water, an old towel, pet wipes, and a floor mat. Add some treats so you can train him to stay put while you wipe his paws.
3. House Cleaning for Pet Owners Requires a Good Vacuum Cleaner
A high-quality vacuum cleaner is an important tool in house cleaning for pet owners. It needs to have strong suction and a good brush and filter. Especially in a home with pets, you can improve your indoor air quality by using a strong vacuum with a HEPA filter. The filter must be cleaned regularly to avoid spreading pet hair and dander while vacuuming
4. Consider a Different Sofa
Most of us like to share our sofa with our pets. A leather, vinyl, or tightly woven sofa will be easier to keep free of pet hair than a sofa that is loosely woven. If you can’t get a new sofa, use a throw blanket that can be tossed in the wash. Lint rollers come in handy for cleaning pet fur from upholstery.
5. Keep a Clean Feeding Area
Have an easy-to-clean rubber mat in the area where you feed your pet. This is much tidier than having food morsels and puddles of water on a bare floor. Handwash feeding bowls often or wash them in the dishwasher.
6. Wash Bedding in Baking Soda
House cleaning for pet owners includes washing bedding frequently, especially if your pets sleep on your bed. A cup of baking soda added to the wash will help neutralize odors. If your pet has his own bed, use one with a removable cover. Along with the baking soda, use hot water to kill allergens and bacteria.
7. House Cleaning for Pet Owners: Cat Litter Boxes
The litter box can be a source of strong odors in your home. This makes it a priority for house cleaning. Line your cat’s litter box with a plastic bag to keep the tray itself clean. Use a good quality litter with odor control or add baking soda to your cat’s litter. Empty the litter box daily to keep your cat happy and keep odors under control.
8. Pet Urine Cleaning and Other Accidents
House cleaning is important for unexpected accidents, especially if your home is carpeted. Carpet odors and stains can be difficult to eliminate. Keep a solution of one part vinegar and one part water along with a few teaspoons of baking soda added in a spray bottle for unexpected accidents. Spray, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then blot dry with paper towels.
HomeVantage Home Inspections offers home inspection services in Northern New Jersey. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to schedule an appointment.