Having a dog can bring immense joy to your life. But let’s admit it, it also has its fair share of trouble. From muddy paws to dog hair everywhere, keeping your home clean can be challenging.
However, all you need are a few handy suggestions. With a little planning and effort, you can maintain a tidy space while still enjoying the companionship of your furry friend. Here are six effective ways to keep your home clean when you have dogs.
1. Establish a Regular Grooming Routine
Regular grooming is essential for keeping your home clean when you have a dog. Brushing your dog frequently helps reduce shedding, keeping fur off your floors and furniture. The frequency of brushing depends on your dog’s breed, but most dogs benefit from a good brush at least once a week.
Bathing your dog every couple of weeks can minimize odors and keep their coat looking fresh. Again, your canine’s breed and coat type will affect the frequency of baths. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation. Regular grooming helps your dog stay healthy and keeps your home gleaming and pleasant to smell.
2. Keep a Pet Cleaning Station at Your Entrance
Setting up a cleaning station by your home’s entrance can help keep dirt and mud outside. This station can include a mat, towels, and dog-safe wipes to clean your dog’s paws after walks.
Consider investing in a paw washer. It is a simple tool filled with water that cleans dirt and debris off your dog’s paws before they come inside. Keeping these items near the door makes it easy to clean your pet quickly and reduces the mess they bring into the house.
3. Effective Dog Waste Management
Managing dog waste properly is crucial for keeping your home clean and odor-free. Regularly cleaning up after your dog in the yard prevents unpleasant smells and helps keep outdoor spaces tidy.
Moreover, it can also keep you healthy. A 2023 study published in the Antibiotics journal reveals dogs can carry Escherichia coli. It is a bacterium that is generally harmless but can cause Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in humans. WebMD reports that over 80% of UTIs are caused by E. coli bacteria. Moreover, the study discovered that dogs can infect us with this bacterium. Hence, sanitize your home thoroughly if you have a pet.
If you find it difficult to keep up with daily waste removal, consider hiring a professional dog poop pickup service. This service takes care of the mess, ensuring your yard remains immaculate without the inconvenience. Proper disposal of dog waste also prevents the spread of bacteria, making your home and surroundings healthier. Moreover, consider investing in a covered waste disposal bin. It will help control odors and keep your yard looking tidy.
Scoop Soldiers reveals pet waste shouldn’t be considered fertilizer as it damages your yard. It will attract rodents and unwanted pests, causing unwanted concerns. Professional cleaning will help keep them out of your yard so you can make the most of it.
4. Invest in Washable Furniture Covers and Pet-Friendly Fabrics
Dogs love to lounge on furniture, which can lead to fur, stains, and odors. Using washable slipcovers on your sofas and chairs can help protect your furniture. Choose covers made of sturdy, pet-friendly fabrics that are easy to change and maintain.
Opt for textiles that resist stains and fur, such as microfiber or finely made fabrics. Washable covers are a practical way to maintain a clean home without constantly worrying about messes on your furniture.
5. Utilize Smart Flooring Solutions for Easy Cleanup
The type of flooring in your home can make a big difference in how easy it is to clean up after your dog. Hard surfaces like tiles, laminate, or vinyl are easy to sweep and mop, making them ideal for pet owners. These materials don’t trap fur, dirt, or odors like carpets.
If you prefer carpet, consider using stain-resistant options or area rugs that are easy to clean. Regular vacuuming with a pet-specific vacuum cleaner can also help keep floors fur-, dander-, and dirt-free. A vacuum with a HEPA filter can be helpful for allergy sufferers.
6. Use Dog-Safe Cleaning Products to Tackle Stains and Odors
Accidents happen, but the right cleaning products can help you deal with them quickly and safely. Choose pet-safe cleaning solutions free from harsh chemicals, ideally an enzymatic cleaner. These products effectively neutralize odors and clean stains without risking your dog’s health.
You can also use simple DIY solutions. The American Kennel Club recommends using vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide to create a homemade all-purpose cleaner. Vinegar is a powerful cleanser with antifungal properties, whereas baking soda is a great odor-neutralizer and scrubbing agent. Furthermore, lemon juice is also a potent antibacterial and antifungal disinfectant, but not as effective as acetic acid.
Finally, hydrogen peroxide makes an excellent bleaching agent. Mix these ingredients to remove stains and odors and clean toilet bowls, sinks, shiny surfaces, and cabinet doors. Keeping these cleaning supplies on hand allows you to tackle messes as soon as they occur, maintaining a fresh-smelling home. Finally, don’t forget to wash your pet’s eating bowls.
AARP reveals only 12% of pet owners cleanse their pet’s food bowls daily. Moreover, only 18% clean them less than once every 90 days or never. They further add that metal bowls are more likely to have bacteria than plastic bowls. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises scrubbing pet bowls and utensils with soap and hot water after each use. However, you can use the dishwasher instead if you’re short on time.
People Also Ask
Q1. How often should you clean your dog’s bed?
You should wash your dog’s bed at least once every two weeks. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, wash it weekly. Use pet-safe detergent and hot water to eliminate dirt, dander, and bacteria that can cause odors and health issues.
Q2. What is the best way to remove dog hair from furniture?
Use a lint roller, rubber gloves, or a damp cloth to extract dog hair from furniture. Vacuuming with an upholstery attachment is also effective. For stubborn hair, try lightly spraying water and using a pet hair remover brush to lift the hair off surfaces.
Q3. How can I keep my dog’s paws clean after a walk?
To keep your dog’s paws clean after a walk, wipe them with dog-friendly wipes or a damp cloth. Consider using a paw washer filled with water for deeper cleaning. It helps remove dirt, salt, or chemicals that may stick to your dog’s paws.
Keeping your home clean when you have dogs may seem daunting, but with the right strategies, it’s entirely manageable. Regular grooming, smart cleaning setups, and proper waste management can make a big difference.
By following these tips and incorporating them daily, you can manage the mess that follows dog ownership and maintain a clean and comfortable home. Remember, consistency is key. With a little effort, you can enjoy a happy and healthy home life with your furry friend.
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