How to Keep Your House Clean With Dogs: 11 Essential Tips

As a dog owner, maintaining a clean home can be challenging but not impossible. With the right strategies and tools, you can keep your house tidy and fresh while still enjoying life with your furry friend. Here are 11 essential tips for keeping your house clean when you have dogs.

Establish a Regular Cleaning Routine

1. Bathe Your Dog Regularly

Most dogs benefit from a monthly bath, though some breeds may need more frequent bathing. Regular baths help control odors and shedding.

2. Brush Your Dog Often

Frequent brushing, especially for shedding dogs, helps remove loose hair, dirt, and dander before it ends up all over your home. Aim for at least weekly brushing sessions.

3. Clean Food and Water Areas Daily

Wipe up spills and messes around food and water bowls daily. Consider using placemats or washable rugs under bowls for easy cleanup.

Use the Right Tools and Products

4. Invest in a Robot Vacuum

A robot vacuum can handle daily floor cleaning, sucking up pet hair and dirt with minimal effort on your part.

5. Choose Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products

Use cleaning solutions that are safe for pets but effective at removing stains and odors. Natural options like vinegar and baking soda work well.

6. Keep Pet-Friendly Cleaning Supplies Handy

Stock up on lint rollers, pet wipes, and other tools to quickly address messes as they happen.

Create Pet-Friendly Spaces

7. Use Washable Rugs and Furniture Covers

Opt for machine-washable rugs and slipcovers to make deep cleaning easier.

8. Designate a “Clean Zone”

Create an area near entrances to clean muddy paws before dogs enter the rest of the house.

9. Keep Dogs Off Furniture

If possible, train dogs to stay off furniture to reduce hair and dirt accumulation on upholstery.

Get Professional Help

10. Schedule Regular Grooming Appointments

Professional groomers can help control shedding and keep your dog’s coat in top condition.

11. Hire Cleaning Services for Deep Cleans

Consider periodic professional house cleaning to tackle deep cleaning tasks and keep your home fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I vacuum when I have dogs?

For homes with dogs, daily vacuuming is ideal. At minimum, aim to vacuum high-traffic areas 2-3 times per week.

What’s the best way to remove pet odors from carpets?

Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, let sit overnight, then vacuum thoroughly. For tough odors, use an enzymatic cleaner designed for pet messes.

How can I reduce dog hair on furniture?

Use washable furniture covers, groom your dog regularly, and use a damp rubber glove or lint roller to remove hair from upholstery.

By following these tips and establishing a consistent cleaning routine, you can enjoy a clean home and the companionship of your canine friend. Remember, a little daily maintenance goes a long way in keeping your house clean with dogs.