As much as we love our furry friends, they can sometimes leave behind unwanted odors in our homes. Whether you’re preparing to list your home for sale or just want a fresher living space, tackling pet smells effectively is essential. Here are some tried-and-true methods to keep your home smelling clean and inviting.
1. Clean and Vacuum Regularly
Pet hair and dander accumulate quickly, embedding into carpets, furniture, and upholstery. Regular vacuuming (at least twice a week) helps control these odors. Consider using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap fine particles and allergens.
2. Wash Pet Bedding and Accessories
Pet beds, blankets, toys, and even collars can trap odors. Washing them weekly in hot water with a pet-safe detergent will help minimize lingering smells.
3. Bathe and Groom Your Pet
A clean pet means a fresher home. Regular bathing and brushing reduce shedding and dander buildup. If your pet isn’t a fan of baths, using pet wipes or dry shampoo can help maintain their hygiene between washes.
4. Use Baking Soda for Odor Absorption
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle it on carpets and upholstery, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, and then vacuum it up. You can also leave an open box in rooms where odors tend to linger.
5. Try an Air Purifier
Investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter helps eliminate pet dander and odors from the air, making a noticeable difference in indoor air quality.
6. Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners
For accidents and lingering odors, enzyme-based cleaners break down pet messes at a molecular level, preventing long-term odors from setting into fabrics and flooring.
7. Open Windows for Ventilation
Fresh air circulation helps prevent pet odors from becoming trapped inside your home. Whenever possible, open windows to let in the fresh air and reduce stale smells.
8. Address Litter Box and Potty Areas
If you have cats, scoop the litter box daily and replace the litter regularly. For dogs, keep outdoor potty areas clean and consider using pet-safe deodorizing sprays.
9. Use Essential Oils or Pet-Safe Air Fresheners
Some essential oils can help neutralize odors while providing a calming scent. Be sure to research pet-safe options, as some oils can be harmful to pets.
10. Schedule Deep Cleaning Periodically
Even with regular cleaning, a deep clean every few months is essential. Steam cleaning carpets, washing curtains, and wiping down walls and baseboards can significantly reduce pet-related odors.
Conclusion
Keeping your home smelling fresh while living with pets is possible with consistent cleaning and odor-control strategies. Whether you’re a pet owner preparing to sell your home or simply aiming for a fresher living space, these tips will help you enjoy a clean, welcoming environment without sacrificing the love and companionship of your furry friends!
For all of the latest information on our local real estate market in Southwestern Indiana, you can always trust the professionals at F.C. Tucker Emge. Our agents have superior training and resources at their disposal to better educate you about the road to homeownership. Even if you are 6-12 months (or more!) out from making a change, there is a lot to learn about the home buying and selling process, and our agents can help you learn what you need to know so that you can be confident in your decision and have a smooth experience when the time comes. Let’s Talk!
