When it comes to pets, some messes are inevitable. But that doesn’t mean you have to completely sacrifice your home to your furry friends. The key is choosing materials that can accommodate your animals’ needs. Here are a few ways you can keep your home looking great even with a pet.
Choose hard surface floors
When it comes to pet messes, hard surfaces are definitely the best option. Ceramic tile is easy to clean and has the ability to resist to any stain your pet can dish out. Tile is toenail-proof, delivers a sleek and elegant style, and gives animals a cool place to nap during hot weather. Natural stone tiles and other more porous materials aren’t as pet-proof as other hard surfaces. Acids present in pet vomit can stain them, even if they’re sealed.
Toe-nails tend to leave scratches in hardwood floors, but laminate and vinyl floors have a protective layer to minimize scratches and dents. They also tend to be more water-resistant than real hardwood and may be a better fit for pet owners who are looking for wood-look flooring options.
Use stain-resistant fabrics
Carpet absorbs odors, traps pet hair and soaks up pet stains. Compared to hard surfaces, it’s much more difficult to keep clean. But if you must have carpet choose something that is designed with pets in mind. A stain-resistant nylon carpet that is easy to clean and provides exceptional durability and comfort would be ideal.
When it comes to furniture and bedding, some materials are winners, and some are losers. Silk, chintz and velvet, for instance are pet-hair magnets. You’re better off with a synthetic fabric that’s resistant to stains, smells, bacteria and muddy paws.
Leather is also a good choice. It’s easy to clean and very durable. Faux leather is cruelty-free and typically less expensive, but either option will resist everything but the occasional scratches claws.
Machine-washable materials are always winners. Protect your mattresses from accidents by covering them with a thick pad. Use cotton bedsheets in a medium color or pattern to help hide hair and stains. And as far as bedspreads go, duvet covers are great because you can take them off and wash them regularly.
Vacuum regularly
Pet hair has an odor, and it contains an oil that attracts dirt to the fabric on which it sits. Regular vacuuming will keep the pet hair at bay, but not all vacuums are created equally. Choose a vacuum that is designed in pet hair like the Miele Cat & Dog vacuum. IT has a high suction power, and an Active AirClean filter that helps neutralize odors more effectively.
Keeping your dog or cat clean will also help maximize your efforts, helping your house stay cleaner, longer. Regular brushing and bathing removes loose hair before it ends up spread through your entire home. Furniture and rugs will last longer if they don’t need to be cleaned as often, and trimmed nails won’t scratch floors or upholstery.
Match colors to your pet’s fur
Use your pet as a source of inspiration when choosing colors for your home. It makes sense, right? A black shirt will show every single white cat hair, so logically, a white shirt should hide them. A darker bedspread will hide dark pet hair much more effectively than a crisp white one will.
Your pets are presenting you with the opportunity to really work with color. Take the chance to be more creative and daring when choosing colors.
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