Living with pets brings immeasurable joy, but it also comes with its own set of cleaning challenges. From shedding fur to unexpected messes, maintaining a spotless home can feel like an uphill battle. But fear not—achieving a clean, pet-friendly house is entirely within your reach.
In this guide, we’ll share practical and effective cleaning hacks tailored for pet owners. Whether it’s managing pet hair, neutralizing odors, or ensuring surfaces are safe for your furry friends, we’ve got you covered. These tips are designed to help you maintain a fresh and tidy home without compromising the well-being of your pets.
Essential Cleaning Tools for Pet Owners
Having the right tools makes a big difference. Vacuums designed for pet hair and dander are essential, especially on carpets or hardwood floors. Many of our house cleaners and maids use these in homes with pets for best results.
Grooming tools like shedding brushes also cut down on fur around the home. And when paired with pet-safe cleaning products, you’re fully equipped to maintain a clean, pet-friendly space.
Choose a vacuum built to handle the job
A vacuum built for pet hair is a must-have. Look for models with strong suction, HEPA filters, and tangle-free brush rolls. These tools are favorites among our cleaning ladies and professional maid teams, as they easily tackle fur, dander, and allergens on multiple surfaces.
Popular vacuums like the Dyson Ball Animal and Shark Navigator make it easier to keep up with daily messes, especially if your pets love lounging on the furniture.
If your pet’s fur gets too stuck to vacuum, go at it with a scraper designed for picking up pet hair. We love using these on stairs, cat trees, carpets and rugs, and furniture!
Proper grooming cuts down on stray fur
Regular grooming can minimize the amount of pet hair your house cleaner has to tackle. Use de-shedding tools like the Furminator and grooming gloves to collect loose fur before it lands on your floors.
Frequent grooming not only reduces hair buildup but also helps maintain your pet’s coat health, making them happier and more comfortable.
Safe Cleaning Products for Homes with Pets
A professional maid service knows that not all cleaning products are safe for pets. Avoid bleach, ammonia, and phenols. Instead, opt for gentler ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda.
Enzymatic cleaners, such as Rocco & Roxie, are safe and effective for removing odors and stains—perfect for households with pets and children.
Natural ingredients that are safe around pets
Nature provides many safe and effective cleaning options. Baking soda neutralizes odors, while vinegar cuts through grime. Add a little lemon juice for freshness. Cleaning experts often recommend these natural solutions when working in pet-friendly homes.
At TLC Cleaning, we use our hand-made cleaner, Simply Clean, on most surfaces in your home. It’s made from plant-based cleaning solutions, purified water, and lightly scented with food-grade essential oils.
Avoid storing or using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and phenols, especially in areas your pets frequent. Cats, in particular, are sensitive and prone to exposure due to their grooming habits. Strong smells can be unpleasant to your dog’s sensitive nose. Keep in mind – your pet is a curious creature! It may be compelled to sniff or lick new and interesting substances if they find them unattended.
Daily and Weekly Cleaning Routines
Creating a cleaning routine—whether done by you or your professional maid—makes a big difference in pet-friendly homes.
Daily Tasks
- Vacuum high-traffic areas
- Wipe down food and water bowls
- Scoop litter boxes or clean outdoor areas
Weekly Tasks
- Wash pet bedding
- Mop hard floors
- Disinfect frequently used areas
Sticking to a regular schedule reduces dander, controls odors, and keeps your home fresh.
Managing pet hair and dander
To control allergens, brush your pet regularly and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Lint rollers are handy for quick pick-ups, and air purifiers help reduce airborne dander.
Disinfecting areas your pet frequents
Pets often return to the same places—beds, bowls, crates—where bacteria and smells can build up. Use pet-safe disinfectants and warm water to clean these areas thoroughly.
Deep Cleaning Tips for Pet Owners
Deep cleaning is key to removing embedded fur and pet smells. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can tackle this task yourself. Don’t forget – TLC Cleaning is always available to help you with a deep clean if you need an extra hand.
Handling pet stains on carpets and upholstery
Accidents happen! Use enzymatic cleaners like Nature’s Miracle or Angry Orange to break down organic stains and remove odors. These products are staples in many maid kits because they’re effective and safe for pets.
For mild messes, try baking soda and vinegar as a quick DIY fix.
Seasonal cleaning considerations for pet owners
Each season brings new pet-related challenges. Adjust your cleaning or maid service routine to stay on top of it:
| Season | Challenges Issues | Recommended Solutions |
| Spring | Shedding season | Brush daily, vacuum often |
| Summer | Odors from heat and sweat | Wash beds more frequently |
| Autumn | Mud and wet paw prints | Clean floors with pet-safe enzymatic cleaners |
| Winter | Salt and snow tracked indoors | Wipe paws, rinse entryways |
Keeping a clean, pet-friendly home doesn’t have to be a full-time job. With the right tools, products, and support, you can enjoy a tidy space and happy pets.
If you’re short on time or tired of cleaning up after your four-legged friend, let TLC Cleaning help. Whether you’re looking for a one-time cleaning lady or regular maid service, we have a package to fit your needs.
Contact us today for a personalized quote and discover why we’re the #1 professional maid service in Grand Forks, Fargo, and Detroit Lakes.
