Regularly vacuum, use pet-friendly cleaners, establish designated pet areas, and implement a grooming routine to maintain a clean home with pets.
Keeping a clean home with multiple pets requires strategy, the right tools, and consistent routines. While pet messes are inevitable, these expert-approved methods will help you maintain order without constant cleaning.
Establish Pet Cleaning Stations
Create designated cleaning zones at every entrance to contain dirt and mud. This prevents pets from tracking debris throughout your home.
Essential Station Components
- Absorbent washable rugs (replace traditional doormats)
- Wall-mounted towel hooks with microfiber cloths
- Pet-safe wipes for quick paw cleaning
- Small trash bin for used wipes
For serious mud control, install a wet/dry vacuum station in your mudroom. The Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro is excellent for quick cleanups.
Upgrade Your Cleaning Arsenal
Standard cleaning tools often fail against pet messes. Invest in these specialized products:
| Tool | Purpose | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|
| Enzyme cleaner | Eliminates urine odors | Nature’s Miracle |
| Rubber broom | Removes embedded pet hair | Whisk Broom |
| Lint rollers | Quick fabric cleaning | Lily Brush |
For tough stains, antibacterial sprays with hydrogen peroxide work wonders on organic messes.
Implement Smart Furniture Strategies
Your furniture choices dramatically impact cleaning difficulty. Follow these guidelines:
Fabric Selection
- Choose microfiber or leather over velvet or chenille
- Select patterns that camouflage fur
- Use washable slipcovers on favorite pieces
Protective Measures
- Place washable throws on seating areas
- Use waterproof mattress protectors
- Install removable window film on glass doors
Master the Daily Cleaning Routine
Consistency beats marathon cleaning sessions. This 20-minute daily routine keeps messes manageable:
- Quick vacuum high-traffic areas (use a robot vacuum for maintenance)
- Wipe down food/water stations
- Spot clean accidents immediately
- Brush pets outdoors to reduce shedding
- Shake out rugs and pet beds
According to AKC experts, this preventive approach reduces weekly deep cleaning by 60%.
Optimize Your Home Layout
Strategic design choices minimize cleaning headaches:
- Install easy-clean flooring like luxury vinyl plank
- Use dark grout in tiled areas
- Choose semi-gloss paint for walls
- Create designated pet zones with washable mats
- Install built-in pet feeding stations
For homes with multiple dogs, organic cleaning products are safer for frequent use around pets.
Control Pet Hair Effectively
Pet hair requires specialized removal techniques:
Best Removal Methods
- Rubber squeegee for carpets
- Damp rubber gloves for upholstery
- Fabric softener sheets for clothing
- Air purifiers with HEPA filters
Regular grooming reduces shedding by up to 80%. Schedule professional deshedding treatments during peak seasons.
Eliminate Pet Odors Permanently
Masking odors isn’t enough – you need to eliminate them at the source:
- Wash bedding weekly in enzymatic detergent
- Use baking soda between cleanings
- Clean crates/carriers monthly
- Replace air filters quarterly
- Groom pets regularly
For stubborn smells, ASPCA-approved odor neutralizers are safest for pet households.