10 Tips for Maintaining a Fresh-Smelling Home with Pets

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Are you a pet lover like I am who's constantly trying to keep your house smelling fresh?

You're definitely not alone. As much as I love our pets, there's no denying they can leave behind some... less-than-pleasant smells. Between muddy paws, wet dog, accidents, and pet bedding, keeping your home smelling clean can feel like a full-time job. The good news? After years of living with both dogs and cats, I've found a handful of products and habits that genuinely make a difference.

Here are my favorite tips for keeping your home fresh while still enjoying all the love (and chaos) that comes with having pets.

❤️ Want to see all of my favorite pet cleaning products in one place? Browse my curated Amazon collection here!

1. Keep Your Pets Clean and Well-Groomed

Keeping your pets clean and well-groomed significantly reduces the chances of unpleasant odors lingering in your home. Regular baths, brushing, and grooming sessions are key. My favorite shampoo is this lavender-scented shampoo from Target. It is long-lasting and great for my Dalmatian's sensitive skin.

2. Wash Pet Bedding Frequently

Wash your pets' bedding and blankets frequently, as these items can harbor odors. Opt for easy-to-clean, machine-washable bedding to maintain a fresh environment. We personally just use comfy blankets instead of crate mats because of how much easier they are to clean! For an extra scent boost while washing, I love these scent beads.

3. Use Odor-Eliminating Candles

Invest in pet-friendly candles or wax melts with odor-neutralizing properties. Not only do they keep your home smelling delightful, but they also help eliminate pet odors. I have used these specific candles countless times. Yes, they are pricier, but I promise you THEY WORK! They actually remove the odor instead of just masking it.

4. Invest in an Air Purifier

Consider using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to trap pet dander and odors, ensuring cleaner and fresher air quality in your home. This air purifier has great reviews on Amazon and is less than $100!

5. Freshen Carpets With Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, furniture, and pet bedding before vacuuming. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that effectively absorbs and neutralizes odors. I do this about once every 3 months. It makes a huge difference, especially if you keep your dog crates near a carpeted area.

6. Don't Forget Your Curtains

Don't forget to launder your curtains regularly, as they can trap pet odors and dander. Fresh, clean curtains can make a notable difference in your home's scent!

7. Clean Accidents With Pet-Safe Products

Use pet safe cleaning solutions for new messes, set in stains and lingering odors. My personal favorites are Angry Orange Odor Eliminator and OxiClean Carpet Stain Remover. I usually use both on new accidents because OxiClean handles the stains while Angry Orange handles the odors.

8. Deep Clean Carpets Regularly

Invest in pet-specific carpet cleaners to tackle accidents promptly. These cleaners not only eliminate stains but also neutralize odors, leaving your carpets fresh and clean. I personally own and LOVE this upright carpet cleaner from Bissell. Not only does it pack a serious punch while deep cleaning your carpets, but the included attachments also make it great for spot cleaning. I use it all the time on our carpets, couches, rugs, etc.

I personally skipped the smaller portable carpet cleaners and invested in an upright model instead. For our home, it was absolutely worth it because I could deep clean carpets, rugs, couches, and spot clean accidents with one machine.

9. Freshen Rooms With Pet-Safe Sprays

Opt for pet-safe room sprays to freshen up your living spaces. Look for natural formulas that are safe for your pets and effectively eliminate odors. Again, Angry Orange Odor Eliminator is my favorite, and it makes a great room spray as well. Another product I've been enjoying is Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator Spray. This spray is much less intense than Angry Orange, and great for those who are sensitive to strong scents. It's also contains natural ingredients and is pet safe.

10. Open the Windows Whenever You Can

Lastly, ensure proper ventilation in your home by opening windows when possible. Fresh air circulation can significantly reduce pet odors and create a healthier living environment.

Final Thoughts on Keeping a Fresh-Smelling Home With Pets

Keeping your house smelling fresh when you have pets isn't about one magic product—it's about building a routine that works for your home.

Between regular grooming, washing pet bedding, cleaning accidents quickly, and using a few odor-fighting products I genuinely love, we've been able to enjoy life with our pets without constantly worrying about lingering smells.

❤️ Want to see all of my favorite pet cleaning products in one place? Browse my curated Amazon collection here!

If you have a favorite pet odor-fighting tip or product, I'd love to hear about it in the comments. I'm always looking for new ideas to try!

Posted from the heart,

Mama Poe

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