I am being completely honest when I say I do not even notice dog hair in my house anymore. It’s just a part of life, and the alternative--not having a dog--is quite unimaginable to me, so I kind of don’t even see it anymore. Now, don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a freshly vacuumed house as much as the next fur mama, and I’m well aware that having pets can make it tough to keep a clean house. So, with spring on the horizon, let’s talk tips to keep your house looking in tip-tip shape this season.
Removing pet hair from your home
Vacuuming floors
When it comes to keeping your floors clean, it is best to use a vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair, or at the very least, one with powerful suction. If someone in your house suffers from allergies, it’s a good idea to invest in a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter so the fur and dust does not blow back into the air. It is also wise to choose a vacuum cleaner with multiple attachments. Briana Norde, president of Caliber Cleaning, Inc., recommends a soft brush attachment on baseboards to minimize the hair blowing around. She also suggests using a crevice tool around furniture and on stairs.
Wiping down furniture
When is comes to cleaning furniture, Norde claims the best way to remove hair from furniture is to put on rubber cleaning gloves and wipe your hand over the furniture to collect the fur. Another cleaning hack, suggested by Jessica Dodd in the Real Simple feature SOS: Pet Mess, is to use a squeegee, like the kind you might use in your shower, to collect hair from your pet’s favorite couch cushion.
Tackling pet stains
Next, let’s take on stains. Springtime often brings rain storms and rain storms mean muddy paws. In our post, Tools of the Trade, we suggested the Mudbuster, a clever tool for cleaning your dog’s paws before he comes in the house. But if you do not get those paws clean and your dog decorates your carpet with muddy footprints, Dodd has a couple non-toxic cleaning tips for you to try. For a light stain, fill a spray bottle with one part white vinegar to two parts water and spritz the area. Blot with a clean cloth. If your stain is resistant to this method, you may want to try a more powerful solution. Drool is often difficult to remove because it’s a protein-based stain (often containing tiny food particles). In a new spray bottle, mix half a cup of hydrogen peroxide with one teaspoon of ammonia. Test in an inconspicuous area before applying to the stain. Then, apply to the stain with a rag and let it sit for up to 30 minutes. Blot, add cold water to rinse, and blot again with a thick layer of paper towels.
Give toys a thorough wash
Your pet's favorite plush toys, blankets and bedding should all be washed. Usually, these items are safe to toss in the washer to get clean. Your dog can help you during this task if he knows commands to bring items back to you. Throw out toys that are broken or are too dirty to get clean. Most rubber toys can be scrubbed in the sink or run through the top rack of the dishwasher using pet-safe soap. Wipe out your pet's toybox and refill his bin with all his favorite toys!
Purify pet bowls
Check to make sure that your bowls aren't chewed on or broken in places, and toss any that are beyond repair. Deep clean your pet's food and water bowls every week with a pet-safe soap or a 50/50 water and vinegar blend! Don't forget to wipe up the area around your pet's food and water bowls if they are messy eaters!
Wipe down windows
If your dog is anything like mine, then he likes to leave little nose art all over the windows and sliding doors throughout your home. Take time to clear up these spots on the windows so he has a clean slate to begin some new pieces.
Clean your dog
How long has it been since your dog had a really good bath? Dirt can be one of many reasons that your dog smells so bad! Now is a good time to conquer your dog's bathtime fears and work on tidying up his appearance. A clean home will only stay as clean as the pet who inhabits it!
Tidy frequently
By tidying your home weekly, you can keep your home clean and sparkling. Living in a clean home is healthier for you and your pets, and can make enjoying time there more fun. Tidy up your spending by enrolling in pet insurance to help protect against unexpected vet bills. Get a quote today and good luck with your spring cleaning!
