5 Tips for Dealing With Pet Odors as a Homeowner
A home that smells fresh offers a welcoming atmosphere. Unfortunately for pet owners, pet odors can be pervasive when not addressed properly. Thankfully, a handful of helpful tricks can keep your home smelling fresh, even when your roommate is a furry friend. Here are 5 tips for dealing with pet odors as a homeowner.
Reduce Odors Before They Start
While this can be easier said than done, the best trick for eliminating pet odors is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Grooming your pets regularly can help reduce dander and keep them smelling fresh. Be sure to clean your pet’s beds, blankets, and toys often using pet-safe cleaners. Carpeting can trap pet dander and make accidents harder to clean, so many pet owners opt for hardwood, laminate, or tile. Consistent potty training and cleaning can help reduce the overall odor and make it easier to manage pet odors.
Locate Odor-Causing Areas
To prevent pet smells from spreading throughout your home, address odor-causing areas immediately. Clean up any accidents promptly and thoroughly. Train young pets early to use a designated potty area, whether that’s outside, on a puppy pad, or in a litter box, to reduce the chance of future accidents. If your pet frequently has accidents, identify and treat the affected areas. Use a blacklight to find dried urine stains by holding it a few inches above carpets, floors, and furniture to spot any glowing areas that need extra cleaning.
Use the Right Cleaners
Pet dander and dirt brought in by pets can make a home smell stale or unpleasant. However, accidents are the most common and persistent cause of pet odors. Pet accidents often leave behind lingering smells and stubborn stains. These issues become more severe when they are not properly addressed. To prevent long-lasting odors, use the right cleaning products. Avoid general carpet or floor cleaners. Choose enzymatic cleaners that specifically target the stains and smells caused by pet urine. These cleaners break down the odor-causing compounds and help eliminate the problem at its source.
Air Out the Space
Fresh air can do wonders for lingering smells. If your space is filled with stagnant air and pet scents, opening the windows and allowing the outdoor air to circulate through the space can help ensure that your home smells its best. Additionally, a HEPA filter can be used to trap dander and reduce any lingering smells throughout the home.
