Spring Cleaning Hacks for People with Pets

Spring Cleaning Hacks for People with Pets

            Spring has arrived! Warmer weather is here and it’s time to open those windows, get outdoors and do some good old-fashioned spring cleaning.  Pets can create lots of messes in the home.  What are the best methods for doing a deep cleaning when you have pets? Read on for our favorite cleaning products and methods!

• Nose prints on windows—dog noses and tongues can leave streaky marks on windows in the home and in our cars.  What’s the best way to clean those nose prints off the glass?  White vinegar and newspaper or a microfiber cloth work wonders at scrubbing that nose goo and slobber off glass.  Glass cleaners work great, too, and there’s always good old soap and water!
• Urine and poo on carpets—pet stains and odors can be tough to remove, especially from carpet.  Best bet? Choose products that have enzymes to break up and remove urine and other bodily fluids and odors from carpet.  Some of our favorite brands are Nature’s Miracle, Anti-Icky-Poo and pet odor carpet cleaners by Woolite/Bissel. You can also use a combination of dilute white vinegar, water, and baking soda or try hydrogen peroxide as home remedies. Be sure to spot check an inconspicuous area to make sure the product doesn’t damage carpet or fabric or cause colors to run or fade.  These products can also be used on hardwood floors, but, again, test an area to make sure it does not damage your floor.  Do NOT use bleach, ammonia or straight vinegar on pet urine. It does not remove the odor and can actually smell like urine to dogs and cats. 
• Litter pans—While litter pans should be scooped, if it’s been a while since you’ve done a deep cleaning of your cat’s litter box, now is the time!  Dump all litter and wash out the box thoroughly with soap and warm water.  Avoid bleach or heavy cleaning solutions and anything citrus scented.  Cats have sensitive noses and may not want to use their litter pan if it has a strong lingering odor.
• Everything else!—consider vacuuming under furniture cushions and surfaces to remove all that pet hair and change out any filters you have in your home.  Wash pet bedding and hand wash food and water bowls and plastic or rubber toys or run them through the dishwasher for an easy clean.

Pets can be a little messy but they bring so much joy to our lives that a little extra elbow grease to clean up after them isn’t so bad.  While you’re at it, consider giving your pets a bath or a good brushing session so they’re squeaky clean, too! Happy spring cleaning!

            This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/dog-urine-stains/

https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/spring-cleaning-pets/