Ever spend an entire day away from home only to find upon returning that your house smells like Fido? You’re not alone. For those of us who love our furry friends, pet odours are a constant battle and because we spend so much time at home, we often become ‘blind’ to odours that our guests notice right away.
Where Are These Odours Hiding?
In the average home there are dozens of places in which pet odours can hide, but the most common harbourers of foul smells are the textiles in your home. Carpets, rugs, upholstery, bedding, curtains and mattresses are all good at absorbing odours. These are not the only culprits; pet bowls, toys, bedding, and Fido himself are also to blame, but your textiles are likely the major source.
How Do I Get Rid Of Them?
Regular Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming can go a long way toward reducing pet odours in the home. Carpets, rugs, and upholstery can trap pet hair and dander that causes some odours. Pets also carry odours in from outside and these too have a tendency to get caught in the fabrics of your home.
Vacuum your carpets, rugs, and upholstery at least once a week to help mitigate the odours trapped within these textiles. Be sure to get under furniture and beneath cushions for a thorough cleaning.
Toys, Bedding, and Food Dishes
Like your carpets and upholstered furnishings, pet bedding is a natural refuge for odour causing bacteria. If your pets sleep on your bed at night, your bedding likely smells like Fido too. Washing your pet’s (and your) bedding on a regular basis is another odour reducing practice. While you are at it, toss in that lovely dog sweater along with cloth harnesses and collars.
Many pet odours originate in your pets mouth and even dried saliva can leave a lasting impression. Cleaning your pet’s toys and food dishes with hot water and dish soap can help mitigate these odours.
Groom Your Pet Regularly
Many pet odours are dermatological, meaning they originate on your pet’s skin. These odours are then dispersed throughout the home in shedded hair and dander. Brushing your pet’s coat on a regular basis can help mitigate shedding and reduce the amount of dander in the home. Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly can also help to freshen breath and strengthen teeth.
Depending on the type of pet and particular breed, regular bathing may be recommended. Consult your veterinarian first.
Deal With Accidents Quickly
If you are a pet owner, you have undoubtedly found the occasional poo pile or puddle on your carpet. These things happen, but dealing with them quickly is the key to mitigating the odours that come with it.
Spraying recent messes with an enzyme cleaner and letting it soak for 30 minutes or so can help to prevent lingering odours. Uncaught accidents can be a little trickier and you should have these areas professionally cleaned.
Professional Carpet Cleaning
Even if you stay on top of pet odours, nothing freshens the home like a professional carpet cleaning. Pet owners should consider having their carpets cleaned every 6 months, and at the minimum, once a year. A qualified cleaner can address older stains and odours and will typically offer upholstery and rug cleaning services as well.