Having pets is one of life’s greatest joys, but it does come with its own set of cleaning challenges. From endless pet hair to occasional accidents and lingering odors, maintaining a fresh, clean home can sometimes feel overwhelming.
The good news? With a few smart strategies and the right tools, you can have a clean, cozy home that’s just as welcoming for your pets as it is for your family and guests.
Let’s dive into the essential guide on how to keep your home clean when you have pets!
1. Invest in the Right Vacuum Cleaner
Your first and best line of defense against pet hair is a powerful vacuum designed specifically for homes with animals.
Features to look for in a vacuum:
- Strong suction power to pick up embedded hair
- HEPA filters to trap allergens
- Tangle-free brush rolls to prevent hair wrapping
- Special pet attachments for upholstery and stairs
Top recommended vacuums for pet hair:
- Dyson Ball Animal 2
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser
- Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog Canister Vacuum
Pro Tip:
Vacuum high-traffic areas daily and perform a thorough vacuuming of the entire house once or twice a week.
2. Set Up a Cleaning Routine
Consistency is key.
A simple daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning schedule makes all the difference.
Daily:
- Quick vacuum of common areas
- Wipe down pet food areas
- Check and clean litter boxes or pet toilets
Weekly:
- Deep vacuum all floors and furniture
- Wash pet bedding and blankets
- Mop hard floors with a pet-safe cleaner
Monthly:
- Shampoo carpets and upholstery (or spot clean)
- Wash pet toys
- Clean pet crates and carriers
Consistency reduces the buildup of dirt, hair, and odors—making each cleaning session faster and easier.
3. Manage Pet Odors Naturally
Even the cleanest homes can fall victim to pet odors. Thankfully, there are effective, pet-safe ways to keep your home smelling fresh.
How to manage pet odors:
- Wash pet bedding regularly (once a week if possible)
- Use baking soda on carpets before vacuuming
- Keep windows open when weather allows to ventilate
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
- Deodorize furniture with a homemade fabric spray (water, a tiny bit of vinegar, and pet-safe essential oils like lavender)
Avoid using heavily perfumed sprays or cleaners that could irritate your pet’s sensitive nose and skin.
4. Deal with Stains the Right Way
Accidents happen — it’s part of life with pets!
When they do, it’s important to act quickly and use the right products.
Stain removal basics:
- Blot, don’t rub — absorb as much of the mess as possible without pushing it deeper into fibers.
- Use enzymatic cleaners — these break down the proteins in pet stains (urine, vomit, feces) better than standard cleaners.
- Avoid heat — hot water or steam cleaning can set pet stains, making them permanent.
Top enzymatic cleaners for pets:
- Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator
- Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator
- Simple Solution Pet Stain & Odor Remover
5. Use Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products
Not all household cleaners are safe for pets. Some chemicals can cause serious health issues, especially if your pet walks on a cleaned surface and later licks their paws.
Pet-safe cleaning product essentials:
- Vinegar and water solutions
- Baking soda
- Pet-safe floor and surface cleaners (like Puracy Natural Surface Cleaner)
- Hypoallergenic, unscented laundry detergents
Always check labels and avoid products containing:
- Ammonia
- Bleach
- Phthalates
- Formaldehyde
Bonus Tip:
DIY cleaners using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are affordable, effective, and much safer for pets.
6. Groom Your Pet Regularly
One of the easiest ways to keep your home cleaner?
Groom your pets frequently!
Benefits of regular grooming:
- Reduces shedding
- Prevents matting (especially for long-haired pets)
- Helps control odors
- Improves skin and coat health
Suggested grooming routine:
- Brushing: 2–3 times a week (daily during heavy shedding seasons)
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks (or as needed)
- Nail trimming and ear cleaning: Monthly
A clean pet = a cleaner home.
7. Create Pet Zones
Designate specific areas in your home where your pet can sleep, eat, and play.
This limits the spread of dirt and fur and makes cleaning much more manageable.
Ideas for pet zones:
- A washable mat under food and water bowls
- A cozy, easy-to-wash bed in a quiet corner
- Play areas with easy-to-clean flooring (like tile or hardwood)
Tip:
Keep a towel or pet wipe station by the door to clean paws before your pets come back inside!
Conclusion: Happy Pets, Happy Home
Keeping your home clean when you have pets doesn’t have to feel like a full-time job.
With the right vacuum, effective routines, pet-safe products, and a little bit of consistency, you can enjoy a fresh, cozy home and all the joys of pet ownership.
Remember: it’s not about achieving perfection — it’s about building small, sustainable habits that make life better for everyone in your home (furry friends included!).
