Keeping A Pet Home Human Friendly

If you share your home with a furry friend, the good news is studies say you're probably happier and healthier. The bad news? Your house probably isn't.

But fear not! We've compiled our top tried and tested tips to keep your pet-friendly home feeling fresh.

1. Keep your pets clean

If Fido behaves like he is part-warthog on every walk, it's time to set up a pet grooming routine. It sounds obvious, but dirt removed through grooming is dirt not lying around the house. A quick wash down with plain water can make a world of difference, and you should keep damp dogs confined to one area, preferably with an easy to clean floor like the laundry room. Better yet, thoroughly dry them afterwards to avoid any eau-de-wet-dog. From time to time you'll need to give them a proper wash with pet shampoo. Depending on the breed they may also require trimming or de-shedding; shedding culprits are any long coats as well as water dogs like Labradors, and Jack Russells. In Africa you don’t need to feel bad - get that coat clipped! There are many mobile dog groomers who will come do it in your garden.
Psssst: Try our awesome pet shampoo!

2. Upgrade your sofa

If you can't bear to push your pooch off the couch it might be time to upgrade your current sofa. The wrong material can act like a hair magnet, hold undesirable odours and show up the slightest stain. While scouting your new sofa, look for leather or tightly woven materials, ideally in a similar shade to your pets. If you can't spring for a new sofa, add a pet-friendly throw which can be chucked in the wash when needed, or see if you can have the fabric scotch-guarded for protection.

3. Buy a quality vacuum cleaner

Look for a pet appropriate vacuum cleaner to pick up pesky hairs and help banish odours. You'll need extra strong suction, quality filter, and a good brush action to pull hair out rather than just glide over the surface. Consider the type of flooring you have in your home and if your pet goes on the furniture, look for one which can tackle upholstery too. If you've got yourself a shedder, you'll need to vacuum daily to keep on top of things, but it can be a five minute daily job as opposed to an hourly one every week.
Pssst: Be sure to regularly clean out the filter too as a hair and dirt clogged filter will spread the smell of pet hair wherever you vacuum. Ah, pet ownership!

4. Set up a dog cleaning station

Your art deco table and Victorian hat rack might look like the perfect entranceway, but not when you're armed with a muddy dog. Of course, if you have a laundry room, set up your dog cleaning station there. But if not, simply tweak your entranceway. We're talking a heavy duty doormat, easily accessible dog towels and wipes, and a water spray bottle to clean muddy paws.
Pssst: Maybe keep a couple of treats there, too.

5. Regularly clean your pet's things

Pet beds, toys and even leads pick up that strong dog odour and all need to be cleaned regularly. Check if they are machine washable, otherwise you can wash by hand in the sink. Save this chore for a sunny day and allow them to dry outside where the sun will help kill bad odours.
Psssst: We recommend our great pre-wash and maybe some sanitiser.

6. React quickly to accidents

Life with pets means the odd accident. Our advice? Act fast and use an enzyme-based cleaner to minimise smells.
Psssst: Try any of our amazing cleaning products, for outdoors, tiles, or carpets.

7. Buy a sensible dog bed

8. Air your house

← Previous Post Next Post →