Pets bring love, joy, and plenty of messes. From fur-covered furniture to mystery stains, keeping a clean home with pets can feel like a full-time job. The good news? With a few smart tricks, you can stay ahead of the mess and keep your home looking (and smelling) fresh.
Here are 15 cleaning hacks every pet owner needs to know!
1. Use a Rubber Squeegee for Pet Hair
Vacuuming alone won’t get all the fur out of your carpets and furniture. Run a rubber squeegee over fabric surfaces to lift embedded pet hair with ease.
2. Ditch Carpet Odors with Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda over carpets and pet beds, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum. It absorbs odors and freshens up fabrics naturally.
3. Use a Damp Rubber Glove for Fur Removal
Put on a slightly damp rubber glove and run your hand over furniture or clothing. Pet hair will stick to the glove, making it easy to collect and toss.
4. Keep Litter Box Smells Under Control with Activated Charcoal
Placing a small container of activated charcoal near the litter box helps absorb odors without using artificial scents that may bother your cat.
5. Use Vinegar and Water for Accident Cleanups
For pet urine stains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray the area, and blot with a clean towel. Vinegar neutralizes odors and breaks down stains naturally.
6. Prevent Water Bowl Slime with a Quick Daily Rinse
Bacteria build up fast in pet bowls. Rinse them with hot water and mild soap daily to prevent slime and keep your pet’s water fresh.
7. Use a Lint Roller for Quick Fur Pickups
Keep a lint roller by the door for a quick cleanup before leaving the house. It works on clothes, furniture, and even car seats.
8. Protect Your Couch with a Washable Blanket
Instead of constantly vacuuming your couch, lay a washable blanket over your pet’s favorite spot. Shake it out regularly and toss it in the wash as needed.
9. Deodorize Pet Beds with Sunlight
Take pet beds outside and let the sun do the work! Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and freshens up pet bedding.
10. Use a Dish Rack to Air-Dry Toys and Collars
After washing toys, collars, and leashes, place them in a dish rack to dry. This keeps everything organized and prevents mold or mildew buildup.
11. Keep Muddy Paws in Check with a Towel Station
Place a towel or pet wipes near the door to quickly wipe paws before your pet tracks mud through the house.
12. Use a UV Blacklight to Find Hidden Stains
If you smell something but can’t find the source, a UV blacklight will reveal hidden pet stains so you can clean them properly.
13. Make DIY Pet-Safe Air Freshener
Mix water, a splash of white vinegar, and a few drops of pet-safe essential oils (like lavender) for a natural air freshener that won’t harm your pet.
Read More: 10 Tricks for Keeping Your Home Smelling Fresh All Year
14. Keep Fur Out of the Washing Machine with a Laundry Bag
Before washing pet blankets or beds, place them in a mesh laundry bag to trap excess hair and prevent it from clogging your washer.
Read More: How to Reduce Cat Allergens in Your Home
15. Vacuum Daily with a Robot Vacuum
If you have a pet that sheds a lot, a robot vacuum can be a lifesaver. Set it to run daily and let it pick up fur before it takes over your home.
With these cleaning hacks, you can spend less time battling fur and odors and more time enjoying life with your pet. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your home fresh, clean, and pet-friendly!
Read More: From Furballs to Freshness: 10 Ways to Maintain a Clean Home with Pets
