Spring means the return of leaves to trees, the scent of flowers in the air, and rays of sunshine on your cheeks. It also means budding plants and baby animals. Whether you’ve chosen this time of year to welcome a new addition into your home, or just need some spring cleaning tips, we’ve got you covered--from treating spots to deep cleanings. By being a planner, being prepared, and being proactive, you can set yourself up for some serious success.
Be a planner
If you're potty training your puppy, plan to take him out frequently, at least every four to six hours. You may even have to take him out more often at first. If you see him starting to squat to do his business, make a loud noise that will distract him and take him outside immediately. Then, make sure to clean the area thoroughly. Try Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover, a bacteria-based cleaner which produces enzymes to help remove stains caused by urine. If you keep the area clean and odor-free, it will prevent your dog from marking the same area. For cat owners, plan to have a litter box per cat, plus one more, and to scoop the box every day. You may also want to invest in the Easyology Premium cat litter mat, a mesh carpet that traps debris from your cat’s feet, preventing it from being spread throughout the house.
Be prepared
It is important to shop wisely for furniture, especially when choosing the fabric of your couch. Samantha Lane, operations manager for April Lane’s Home Cleaning in Seattle, says, "Anything with a thick weave fabric is going to be good." Think leather or microfiber, and not silk or velvet. Lane also recommends matching the color of your couch to your pet, so that hair does not show as easily. It is also important to invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner. The Dyson V11 Animal cord-free vacuum is designed with hairy pets in mind. Pet hair and dirt are no match for its powerful motor. The stiff nylon bristles on the brush bar are propelled by the digital motor, removing dirt from your carpet easily, as well as capturing dust from your hard floors. One reviewer said, “I couldn't recommend this machine more to people that have to deal with a lot of pet fur. It's spectacular.” It might be in my virtual cart as I type. I mean, how amazing does that vacuum sound?
Be proactive
Mikkel Becker, a pug owner and a Seattle-based certified trainer for Vetstreet.com, requires her dog to step on a rug by her entryway to remove debris from his feet before he tracks it through the house. She recommends the Muddy Buddy Paw Mat, a microfiber chenille doormat that absorbs dirt and water. The mat boasts the ability to soak up seven times its weight in water and mud. Washing your pet frequently--weekly or every two weeks--can also keep the dirt and grime at bay, preventing it from transferring to furniture and your carpet. The Kong Zoom Groom brush gently massages your dog while you’re bathing him. I’m pretty sure my dog has added this one to my virtual cart. :) The bristles on the brush remove loose hair, and help stimulate natural oil production in your dog’s fur, encouraging a healthy coat.
Follow our tips and you’ll be spring cleaning and mopping up messes like a boss!
