Pets bring a lot of things to our homes, they make it happier, more comfortable, and more like home. However, they can also leave behind some pretty strong smells. If you’re a pet owner, you need some daily habits, smart products, and a few easy hacks to keep your home smelling fresh. Cleaning up after your pet, using litter boxes, and getting rid of pet dander are all great ways to start.
You can have a clean, welcoming space without giving up snuggles or playtime if you take a proactive approach with the right tools. Here you will find ways to get rid of pet smells without covering them up or filling your home with fake scents.
Where is it Coming From?
Try to find the cause, not just the symptoms. Pet smells don’t just appear out of nowhere. Some common causes are accidents, like not cleaning up urine, vomit, or feces. Dander and fur can get stuck in carpets and upholstery. Wet for after baths, rain, or swimming is another common cause. Dirty litter boxes or cages will get smelly. Food spills around feeding areas and unwashed pet beds, toys, and collars are all common causes for pet smells in your home.
Knowing what makes the smell helps; you know what to do about it instead of just covering it up with candles or air fresheners.
Have a Daily Cleaning Schedule
Putting in a little work every day can go a long way. The best way to stop smells from happening is to always clean up after your pet. You could have a daily routine that looks a little like this:
- Scoop litter boxes
- Wipe paws or fur after outdoor time, especially on rainy days
- Vacuum or sweep floors and high-traffic pet areas
- Clean water and food bowls to keep bacteria from growing
- Shake out and air, pet bedding or blankets
Even if you only commit five minutes a day to cleaning up after your pet, it can help stop smells from building up before they start.
Vacuum Like You Mean It
Invest in a vacuum that is specifically made for people with pets. Pet hair and dander don’t just sit on the surface, they stick to carpets, furniture, and curtains, trapping smells longer. They sit. The right vacuum can make a huge difference. Look for vacuums that have HEPA filters to catch dander and allergens, brush rollers that are made for pet hair, strong suction for cleaning your carpets deeply, and attachments for stairs, furniture, and tight spaces.
If you wanna see the best results, vacuum your pet’s area 2 to 3 times a week or more during shedding season.
Getting Rid of Smells on Soft Surfaces
Soft surfaces will hold onto smells if not dealt with. Don’t forget about your curtains, couch, and pet beds. Textiles and soft furnishings soak up smells like sponges. If you want to keep them fresh, try sprinkling baking soda on your rugs or furniture before you vacuum. Wash your pet’s bed and throw covers once a week.
You can use fabric-safe sprays with enzymes to help get rid of odors, instead of just covering them up. And whenever possible, air-dry your cushions, pillows, and bedding outside for a natural refresh. To make your cleaning even easier, pick pet beds and furniture with covers that can be taken off for an easy wash.
Clean Litter Boxes Like a Pro
Litter boxes are one of the places that smell the most. If you don’t take care of it, even one cat litter box can make the whole room smell terrible. Here’s how to keep it:
- Scoop the litter box daily. If you have more than one cat, scoop it twice.
- Wash the box. Do weekly washes with mild soap and warm water.
- Use high-quality order controlling litter.
- Consider using a little deodorizer or sprinkling baking soda on the bottom
- Keep your litter box in a well-ventilated area, not an enclosed closet
If your cat keeps missing the box, it could be a sign of stress, illness, or not liking the litter. If this is the case, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet.
Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Smells
You don’t have to use heart chemicals to get fresh sense. Instead of using strong air fresheners to cover up smells, try these natural, pet-safe ways to get rid of them.:
White vinegar can be sprayed on surfaces to get rid of smells by mixing it with water in a one-to-one ratio
And baking soda is a natural way to get rid of smells and carpets, beds, and litter boxes
Activated charcoal is a substance that absorbs smells in the air. You can use it in sachets or small containers that are out of sight.
Essential oils should only be used if they are safe for your pet. Certain ones, like lavender, can be diffused in a diffuser. Always talk to your vet first because many oils are bad for pets.
It’s always smart to open the windows of your home whenever possible to help improve ventilation and refresh the space.
Keep Your Pet Smelling Good
If your pet is clean, you’re home is likely to smell better. Your home will probably smell bad if your pet does. Make grooming a part of your daily routine:
- Bathe dogs every 4 to 6 weeks or more often for outdoor adventures
- Brush your pet regularly to reduce shedding and dander
- Use waterless pet shampoo between baths for a quick refresh
- Wipe their paws and bellies after walks or playtime
- Clean their ears and teeth on a regular basis, as both are hidden sources of odor
Cats tend to clean themselves, but older cats or cats with long hair may need some help from time to time. Always monitor your pet to better understand their needs.
Clean Up Accidents Right Away
Speed is the best way to get rid of smells that won’t go away. The sooner you clean up a puppy training accident or a hairball on the rug, the better. Make sure to use an enzyme-based cleaner made just for pet messes to get rid of proteins that smell bad. Don’t use cleaners that contain ammonia because they can smell like urine and make pets want to use the same spot again.
Use Air Purifiers
Circulate and clean your air. Air purifiers with HEPA and carbon filters do more than just remove your home of all allergens, they also get rid of odor particles. You can put them close to litter boxes or in rooms with a lot of pets, like the living room or bedrooms. Try to put them in areas with bad airflow and pick models that are good for homes with pets. Changing the filter often will give you the best results.
Tips for Smart Storage
Don’t let smells build up in your storage areas. Here are some helpful storage tips that will allow you to keep your leashes, toys, and grooming tools clean:
- Wipe down toys and tools once a week
- Use baskets or bins that let airflow so they don’t trap moisture
- Add a deodorizer to storage areas
- Food should be stored in airtight containers to keep it from smelling musty or stale.
Conclusion
Having pets doesn’t mean that you have to deal with smells that don’t go away. To keep smells under control, you need to be consistent.: do the same things every day, choose products carefully, and pay extra attention to certain
By getting rid of smells at their source and keeping your home clean, you can keep your home and pets smelling fresh and the space welcoming for guests. So get your baking soda and open those windows. Then give your vacuum a workout, and your nose will be grateful.
