Top tips to keep your home clean and fresh when you have a dog
As much as we love our furry canine companions, it’s no secret that dogs can make it challenging to keep a clean and odour-free home. From muddy paws traipsing through the house to smelly accidents on the carpet, our four-legged friends can quickly turn a tidy home into a messy place that seems overrun with pet dander, hair and unpleasant smells.
But keeping your home fresh and clean doesn’t have to be an endless battle when you have a dog. With some simple habits, pet-friendly products, and regular cleaning routines, you can maintain a clean house that doesn’t suffer from a pervasive “dog smell.”
Contain messes
One of the best ways to contain messes is to use baby gates or dog pens to restrict your dog’s access to certain areas of the house and keep them off carpets or out of rooms you want to keep clean and odour-free. You can also place mats, towels or pads under their food and water bowls to quickly soak up spills and drips.
Investing in washable furniture covers, throws or blankets for your sofas and chairs can also save your upholstery from embedded dog hair, dirt and smells. Be sure to clean these items frequently to eliminate smells before they set in.
Vacuum frequently
Plan to vacuum at least every other day, especially in high traffic areas and on soft surfaces where pet hair gathers quickly. Give extra attention to carpets, rugs, fabric furniture, pet beds and anywhere your dog likes to lounge. Using the hose attachment, vacuum upholstered furniture frequently to remove embedded pet hair and dander.
Vacuuming curtains, blinds and wiping down ceiling fans periodically can also catch stray pet hair and reduce the circulation of dander. Always empty the vacuum bin or bag immediately so lingering odours don’t develop. Following a thorough vacuuming routine will help enormously in managing dog hair and keeping your home fresh, especially when combined with a deep carpet cleaning at least once per year.
Wash bedding regularly
Washing your dog’s bedding and your own bed linens regularly is imperative for reducing pet odours and a build-up of dander. Wash your dog’s bed, pillows and blankets at least once a week to eliminate dirt and smells that accumulate, and use an enzymatic cleaner or pet odour eliminator in with the wash to fully remove traces of unpleasant smells.
You should also launder your own sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases and blankets weekly if your dog sleeps on your bed. This will prevent smells from transferring to your bedding. Use high heat washes and odour-fighting detergents when cleaning bed linens used by pets.
Use the right products
When cleaning your home with a dog around, it’s important to use pet-safe cleaners that won’t irritate your furry friend. Many conventional cleaners contain harsh chemicals, bleaches and synthetic fragrances that can be harmful to a dog’s respiratory system if inhaled, and also damaging to your soft furnishings.
Seeking out gentle, non-toxic cleaners is your best option for pet-friendly home cleaning. Look for brands that use natural enzymes and oils like citrus, mint or eucalyptus for their cleansing power and fresh scents. Steer clear of any cleaners that contain ammonia, chlorine, phthalates or formaldehyde which can be harmful. Be sure to rinse any cleaning products thoroughly before allowing pets back into an area, and ensure rooms are well-ventilated after using cleaners to allow any moisture to dry fully.
Air out the house
One of the simplest ways to keep your home smelling fresh is to regularly air out the house. Open all of your windows daily for at least 10-15 minutes, longer if weather permits, to let fresh air circulate throughout your home. This will help dissipate lingering smells that can build up from your dog and general living.
Get in touch
Keeping a clean and fresh home when you have an energetic dog bounding through it may seem daunting some days. But with the right cleaning routines, pet-friendly products and containment strategies, you really can maintain a pleasant-smelling house even with a furry companion. If you’re in need of a professional helping hand in keeping your home clean and fresh, why not contact Apple Clean – we offer a range of cleaning services to help you maintain your home.