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Keeping carpets clean with pets is a challenge every pet owner faces. When you have pets and carpet, there’s no denying that regular carpet cleaning duties require a lot more effort.
We all know that humans are exceptional at creating messes, but cats and dogs are superior. Pets naturally shed, produce odors, excrete dirt, and may have lice or other bugs in their hair.
Pets are lovable and fun—a bundle of joy and a package deal that includes dirt and hair. This leads to aged carpet in its infancy. You shouldn’t have to replace your carpet before its due date, even with pets. Here are proven tips for keeping carpets clean with pets, so you and your furry friends can enjoy a beautiful home together.
Keep the Pet Clean
Clean pets mean clean carpets. Regularly bathing, brushing, and caring for your pet prevents carpets matted with pet hair. Also, regularly grooming your pet means controlling exactly where your furry friend’s hair is deposited.Â
Dry Dirty Paws: Essential for Keeping Carpets Clean with Pets
Most mothers demand their children rinse off with a hose before tracking dirt around the house. Pets, although more susceptible to mud and dust, should be handled the same way. Wipe off his paws with a cloth and water before he enters the house.
Use the Mudroom to Help Keep Carpets Clean
Some homes have a mudroom or tile entryway that acts as a bridge between the outside and inside. If there’s no time to clean up the dog, he can just walk on the tile, which is much easier to clean than carpet.
Keep Nails Short to Protect Carpets When Living with Pets
Long nails will shred a carpet faster than almost anything. Pets often scratch their nails on the carpet while playing or stretching. If you wish to keep tight carpet fibers, remember to regularly snip the dog’s nails.
Place Rugs Wisely
Use rugs. Lots and lots of rugs. Rugs preserve carpet by blocking oils, hair, and dirt from seeping into the carpet fibers. You can also train your pet to nap or sleep on the rug since rugs are much easier to clean and replace than carpets. Plus, they look great!
Vacuum Regularly—A Must for Keeping Carpets Clean with Pets
Hopefully, this goes without saying, but the carpet should be vacuumed several times a week. It is the best way for homeowners to remove dirt on their own. But what many homeowners don’t know is that vacuuming only removes about 80% of the dirt. Regular cleanings are necessary to remove the full range of dirt a pet will introduce into the home.
Clean Up Messes Quickly<
If your pet has had an accident, it’s important to turn your inner track star on and grab a towel to absorb the urine as soon as possible. If it’s been over 10 minutes, use water to lift the urine and reabsorb with a towel. Be cautious using chemical cleaners, as some are notorious for damaging carpets.
Schedule Regular Cleanings for Keeping Carpets Clean with Pets
With all the maintenance in the world, keeping carpets spotless with pets is a challenging feat. Since homeowners without pets need professional cleanings yearly, it is especially important for pet owners to deep clean their carpets. Â Let us know if we can help!
How to Keep Your Carpets Clean with Pets FAQs
Pets naturally shed, produce odors, excrete dirt, and may carry pests like lice or bugs in their hair. While they bring fun and joy, these factors can lead to carpets aging quickly—resulting in matted fibers and odors. Caring for your carpet becomes especially important so you don’t need to replace it prematurely.
Clean pets mean clean carpets. Regular bathing, brushing, and grooming prevent pet hair from matting in the carpet. This also helps you control where hair is deposited so it’s less likely to clog up your flooring.
Before your pet enters the house, always wipe off their paws with a cloth and water. Pets are especially prone to dragging in mud and dust. Just as children are required to rinse off with a hose, a good paw wipe can save you a lot of time and keep your carpets cleaner.
Long nails shred carpet more than almost anything else. Pets scratch and play, often digging their nails into the carpet. Regularly trimming your dog’s nails will help keep your carpet fibers tight and prevent unnecessary wear.
Yes! Some homes have tile entryways that act as a buffer between outside and inside. If you’re short on time, let your dog walk on the tile instead of going straight onto carpet. Tile is much easier to clean and will keep dirt off your carpets.
Absolutely. Rugs help protect carpet by trapping oils, hair, and dirt before they get deep into fibers. You can train your pet to nap or sleep on rugs, since they’re easier to clean and replace. Rugs also add visual appeal to your home.
Vacuums should be used several times a week. It’s the best way for homeowners to remove dirt on their own. However, be aware that vacuuming only removes about 80% of the dirt; regular deep cleaning may be necessary to eliminate everything pets can introduce.
If your pet has had an accident, respond quickly. Absorb the urine or mess with a towel as fast as possible. If it’s been over 10 minutes, use water to lift the urine and blot with a towel. Use chemical cleaners carefully—some may damage your carpet.
Yes. Professional cleanings are important even for those without pets, but pet owners should be extra vigilant. Deep cleaning helps maintain your carpet’s health and appearance, removing tough dirt and odors that vacuuming cannot.
Commercial Cleaning and Restoration offers specialized services for pet owners, including deep cleans, stain and odor removal, and maintenance tips for keeping carpets looking their best.