While pets bring much joy, they are usually the sources of lingering odors in our living spaces. Therefore, maintaining a fresh and clean home when you have furry friends requires more effort than the occasional room spray. From the unmistakable scent of a wet dog to the permeating stench of a litter box, it’s easy for pet owners to experience noseblindness after some time. Although you may return home and smell nothing, the scent trail is likely more intense to others than you know. Fortunately, there are strategies to stop pet odors from drowning out pleasant scents.

Groom your pet regularly.

One of the most effective ways to combat pet odors is through regular grooming and cleaning routines. Yes, there’s a recommended limit for how often pets should bathe. But to work around this, invest in a spray-on deodorizer to use in between bath times. Brushing your pets reduces shedding, minimizing the amount of loose fur and dander in your home. Beyond full grooming days, wipe down your pets thoroughly with grooming wipes, especially your dog’s paws. Pets can track dirt and debris onto the floor and furniture, including smelly liquids.

Clean your pet’s stuff.

Your pet’s belongings, such as bedding, toys, litter boxes, and food bowls, harbor bacteria and odors. Wash your pet’s bed, blankets, and plush toys weekly in hot water with a non-toxic detergent. Clean litter boxes daily and replace litter frequently to prevent the smell of waste. Additionally, wash food and water bowls after your pet’s last feeding. Pro tip: stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easier to clean and less likely to emit odors.

Ventilate your home.

Adequate air circulation is essential for maintaining a lovely-smelling home. Open windows to let fresh air in and allow odors to escape. Turn on ceiling fans or air purifiers to quickly filter out dander, airborne allergens, and smells.

Get smells and stains out of carpet and upholstery.

Carpets and fabrics can absorb pet odors. The longer the smell remains, the harder it is to remove. Vacuum carpets and rugs at least a few times a week, focusing on areas your pets hang around the most. For odors that won’t go away, sprinkle on some baking soda, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. The goal is to neutralize the stench without leaving behind any residue that could damage your furniture.

Use targeted products.

When odors persist despite regular cleaning, you might need something more powerful, like targeted odor eliminators. Pet cleaners are specifically effective at breaking down urine, feces, and other messes and stains. Furthermore, pet air fresheners or neutralizing sprays eliminate their odors without masking them.

Establish a consistent routine.

Implementing these strategies on a schedule will help you effectively manage pet odors in your home. Odor elimination is the first step, but remember to incorporate fragrances or natural remedies like simmering citrus peels and cinnamon on the stove to improve the scent of your home, too. Whereas it’s unavoidable for homes with pets to have a particular aroma, prioritizing a clean and well-maintained living space minimizes their presence, making them undetectable.