5 must-have tips to keep your home fresh – even with pets!

Pets are great additions to any family, but they often have unwanted odors. Whether you're dealing with litter box odors, wet dog odors, or lingering pet food odors, it's important to keep your home smelling clean and fresh. You don't have to sacrifice cleanliness for the love of your pets. Here are five expert-approved tips to help keep your home smelling great, no matter how many furry friends you have!

1. Clean pet litter regularly

Pet beds can be a major source of unpleasant odors. Washing your pet's bedding weekly is critical to removing hair, dander and odors. Use a mild, pet-safe detergent and make sure the bedding is completely dry to prevent mold growth.

Pro tip: Add a small amount of baking soda to the wash cycle to neutralize odors.

2. Use an air purifier

Investing in a high-quality air purifier can significantly reduce pet-related odors in your home. Choose a unit with a HEPA filter to trap dander and pet dander, and look for models designed to eliminate odors. Not only does this make your home smell better, but it also helps fight any allergens that may be floating around.

3. Fight Litter Box Odor

Litter boxes are notorious for their pungent smell. To keep odor under control, scoop the litter box daily and change the litter at least once a week. You can also try using deodorant powder or baking soda to absorb unpleasant odors.

Extra tip: Consider substituting a self-cleaning litter box if you have multiple cats or are busy.

4. Take care of your pets

Regular grooming is essential to prevent pet odors from entering your home. Bathe your dog as recommended for its breed, and brush cats and dogs frequently to remove loose fur. Clean your pet's paws and fur after walks in the fresh air to avoid bringing dirt and bacteria inside.

5. Neutralize odors with natural remedies

Instead of using chemical air fresheners that only mask odors, opt for natural odor neutralizers. Vinegar and baking soda are two powerful pet odor removers. You can sprinkle baking soda on carpets and furniture, leave it for 15-20 minutes and then vacuum it up. For surfaces, use a mixture of water and white vinegar to wipe areas that may have odors.

Extra tip: Use essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus (safely and in moderation) to add a fresh scent to your home.

By following these simple tips, you can make sure your home smells fresh and inviting without losing the companionship of your beloved pets. Want to learn more about pet care and house cleaning tips? Click here for more helpful guides!

PetMD is a trusted resource for expert advice on pet health and care.

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