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We all love our furry friends, but let’s face it – they can bring some not-so-pleasant odors into our homes.
Whether it’s the smell of their litter boxes or the lingering scent of wet dogs, here are 18 simple and practical tips to help you eliminate those unwanted smells and keep your home smelling its best.
Vacuum Regularly
The secret to combating pet odors starts with maintaining a clean environment. Regularly vacuum your floors to remove pet hair, dander, and any dirt or debris causing those not-so-fresh smells.
Stay on Top of the Litter Box
Keeping their litter boxes clean is essential if you have an indoor cat. Scoop it daily and change the litter regularly to prevent odors from permeating your home. Consider using odor-absorbing cat litter or adding a sprinkle of baking soda to the litter box to reduce the smell.
Pet Bedding Needs Love Too
Your furry friend’s bedding can harbor odors, so it’s essential to give it a good wash regularly. Check the care instructions and use pet-friendly detergent to eliminate any lingering smells. Don’t forget to throw in their blankets or pillows, too!
Groom Your Pets
Regular grooming not only keeps your pets looking fabulous, but it also helps keep those odors in check. Groom them to remove loose hair and dander, reducing the smell-causing particles floating around.
Give Pet Toys and Accessories Some TLC
It’s easy to forget, but your pet’s toys, collars, and leashes can accumulate dirt and odors over time. Give them a good wash with pet-friendly detergent, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning. Your furry friend will appreciate the extra effort!
Mop the Floors
If you have hard floors like wood, laminate, or vinyl plank, you should mop them regularly. Start by quickly sweeping the floor with a broom to pick up any loose debris, then follow up with a thorough mopping.
Change the Air Filter
Air filters help remove airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. By reducing these contaminants in your home, you can protect yourself and your family from breathing in poor air quality. Make sure to change it every three months to help keep your HVAC system running smoothly and filter the air.
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Allow Fresh Air In
Good ventilation is key to minimizing pet odors. Open your windows and let fresh breeze and air come in. Allowing the air to circulate in areas where your pets spend most of their time helps to reduce the pet smell. This helps whisk away stale air and replace it with a breath of fresh, odor-free air.
Tackle Shedding Head-On
Pet hair can contribute to lingering odors, so staying on top of shedding is essential. Regularly brush your pets to remove loose hair before it ends on your furniture or carpets. Consider using a shedding tool or a brush designed for your pet’s breed. Your home will thank you!
Opt for Pet-Friendly Air Fresheners
Look for air fresheners specially designed for pet-loving homes, or try natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers or potpourri made from dried herbs and flowers.
Clean Your Couch With An Upholstery Cleaner
If your pet spends time on your couch, there is a good chance that it will start to smell like them. Couches tend to trap odors. Use an upholstery cleaner or steam cleaner to remove stains and odors from your couch.
Deep Clean The Carpet
Carpets have a knack for absorbing pet odors, so cleaning and deodorizing them regularly is crucial. Use a carpet cleaner designed for pet stains and odors, or call the professionals for a deep clean that will leave your carpets smelling fresh and looking fabulous.
Wash Your Curtains and Other Linens
Curtains and other fabrics can trap pet odors. Check the care instructions and give them a good wash or dry clean. Consider using fabric fresheners or sprays designed to neutralize pet odors for that extra touch of freshness.
Keep Surfaces Clean
Pets love exploring all the surfaces in your home, from floors to walls to furniture. Wipe down these surfaces regularly with pet-friendly cleaning products to remove any built-up odors and ensure your home smells clean and inviting.
Embrace the Magic of Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and a lifesaver for kicking pet smells to the curb. Sprinkle baking soda on your carpets, rugs, and upholstery, let it work its magic for a few hours, and then give it a good vacuum. You can also place an open box of baking soda in litter boxes or areas with strong odors for extra odor control.
14 Clever Uses for Baking Soda Around the House (And It’s Not Baking)
Use an Air Purifier
Using an air purifier can effectively remove dander and debris from the air in your home, contributing to a fresher and more pleasant-smelling living space.
Repaint the House
While repainting might sound like an extreme solution, it can be highly effective. Painting makes sense if you’ve tackled eliminating odors from your home and discover that the smell may have permeated your walls. Repaint the affected area using a stain- and odor-sealing paint primer to address this issue.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you’ve tried everything and are still battling persistent pet odors, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. They can assess your home and provide specialized advice or treatments to tackle those stubborn smells effectively.
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Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
