If you’re a dog lover, you already know that keeping floors and furniture clean can be a real challenge. Paw prints on the couch, strange odors, and fur-covered floors - even right after vacuuming - are just part of life with a pup.

Together with the experts at Potty Buddy, we’ve put together some key tips for maintaining a clean home when you live with a dog. As specialists in pet-friendly cleanliness, we know that keeping your space fresh and tidy while sharing it with a furry friend is totally achievable with the right strategies.

Stop Dirt at the Door

A clean home starts before your dog even steps inside. To prevent dirt from being tracked in (especially on rainy or snowy days), try these simple tricks:

• Place two doormats - one outside and one inside. A high-quality outdoor mat will help remove most dirt, while a washable indoor mat absorbs moisture.
• Keep a towel by the door to wipe off muddy paws before your dog runs inside.
• Go the extra mile by setting up a small bowl of water near the entrance. Dip your dog’s paws in before drying them off - this is especially useful for those extra-messy walks.
• Consider paw wipes or a paw washer for quick cleaning after every walk. These handy tools make it easy to remove dirt and bacteria before it spreads through your home.

Bonus: These tricks work just as well for kids who love running inside with dirty shoes!

Protect Your Furniture

Sure, you could ban your dog from the couch entirely, but where’s the fun in that? If you love snuggling up with your furry friend, protect your furniture with these simple solutions:

• Use washable covers or blankets on sofas and chairs. Pick soft, machine-washable fabrics that are easy to clean and won’t trap pet hair.
• Choose pet-friendly fabrics. If you’re buying new furniture, opt for indoor-outdoor materials, which are more resistant to stains and easy to wipe clean.
• Train your dog to only sit on covered furniture. Dogs love routines, so if they get used to lounging only on a blanket-covered section of the couch, cleanup becomes a lot easier.
• Use lint rollers and rubber gloves to quickly remove hair from upholstery and fabric.

Stay on Top of Shedding

Even dogs that “don’t shed” still bring in dust, dirt, and crumbs. To keep fur and debris under control, try this three-step approach:

1. Get a robot vacuum. A game-changer for pet owners! Program it to run while you’re out or sleeping, so you wake up to cleaner floors.
2. Use a microfiber mop. Unlike traditional brooms, microfiber mops pick up pet hair and fine dust, making them perfect for tile and hardwood floors.
3. Invest in a handheld vacuum. These are great for cleaning pet hair from couch cushions, baseboards, and other tricky spots.
4. Brush your dog regularly. A good brushing routine can significantly reduce the amount of hair that ends up on your floors and furniture. Consider using a deshedding tool for heavy shedders. Not only does this minimize shedding, but it also keeps your dog’s coat healthy and shiny.

Eliminate Odors Naturally

No one wants their home to smell like a kennel. If your carpets are holding onto pet odors, try this simple hack:

• Sprinkle baking soda generously over your carpet, let it sit for a few hours (or overnight), then vacuum it up. Baking soda absorbs odors rather than just masking them.
• Want a fresh scent? Add a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil to the baking soda before sprinkling it on.
• Wash pet bedding regularly - a major source of lingering odors.
• Keep air circulating. Open windows, use air purifiers, and change HVAC filters regularly to reduce pet smells.

Deal with Pet Stains

Even well-trained pets have accidents. The key is quick action:

• For solid messes, pick them up and wipe the area with soapy water.
• For urine stains, blot up as much as possible with paper towels. Then, clean the area with a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water - a natural, effective way to break down odors.
• To freshen up carpets, sprinkle salt over the stain, then sweep it away with a broom dipped in warm, soapy water.
• For hard floors, mix 1 quart of water, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, a few drops of dish soap, and some essential oils (like lemon or pine) for a natural disinfectant that also deodorizes.
• For tougher stains, try an enzymatic cleaner. These break down organic stains at a molecular level, leaving no lingering scent to attract repeat accidents.

Important: Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners. Dogs might mistake the smell for urine and mark the spot again!

Keep Your Dog’s Space Tidy

Your dog’s comfort zone is often the dirtiest area of the house. Here’s how to keep it clean:

• Rotate toys. Just like humans, dogs lose interest in certain toys over time. By rotating them, you’ll not only keep your dog entertained but also reduce clutter. Wash plush toys regularly in the washing machine, and wipe down hard toys with a damp cloth.
• Clean food and water bowls daily. These can harbor bacteria if left unwashed. Use hot, soapy water or run them through the dishwasher.
• Store pet supplies neatly. Invest in a designated storage bin or shelf for leashes, grooming tools, and treats. This keeps everything organized and prevents items from cluttering your living space.

Create Cleaning Routines That Work for You

Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining a clean home with a dog. Here are some ideas to incorporate into your daily and weekly routines:

Daily: Spend 5-10 minutes tidying up. Pick up stray toys, fluff blankets, and give high-traffic areas a quick once-over with a handheld vacuum.

Weekly: Deep-clean pet bedding, vacuum all carpets thoroughly, and mop hard floors. Don’t forget to check corners and baseboards for hidden pet hair.

Monthly: Wash slipcovers and blankets, scrub grout lines in tiled areas, and inspect your furniture for any wear and tear caused by your pup.

Involve Your Dog in Cleaning Time

Believe it or not, your dog can actually help with household chores - if you train them properly! Teaching basic commands like “drop it” or “leave it” can prevent unwanted chewing or dragging items around the house. You can also teach your dog to fetch their own toys and put them away in a designated basket. It might take some patience, but the payoff is worth it.

Bonus Tips for a Cleaner Home

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your home stays sparkling clean:

• Declutter regularly. Less clutter means fewer places for pet hair and dirt to hide.
• Use washable rugs in high-traffic areas. They’re easy to throw in the washing machine and provide an extra layer of protection for your floors.
• Try a pet-safe air freshener. Look for products specifically designed to neutralize pet odors without harming your furry friend.
• Designate a “dog zone.” Whether it’s a corner of the living room or a cozy nook in the kitchen, having a dedicated space for your dog can help contain messes.

Final Thoughts

Living with a dog doesn’t mean giving up a clean home. With a few smart strategies and regular upkeep, you can enjoy both a tidy space and a happy pup. From keeping dirt at the door to controlling shedding and odors, these tips make maintaining a clean home with a dog easier than ever.

What are your favorite cleaning tricks? Let us know in the comments below. Here’s to many clean and cozy days with your four-legged friend!