How to Keep House Clean With a Dog

Ali Gabre

March 17, 2025
7:16 am

How to Keep House Clean With a Dog and Control Pet Messes

Owning a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with a fair share of messes. Shedding, dirty paws, accidents, and that lingering “dog smell” can quickly make your home feel less fresh. So, how do you keep a house clean with a dog while still enjoying all the love and companionship they bring?

The good news is that keeping your home clean with a dog isn’t impossible—it just takes some strategic planning, consistency, and a few clever tricks that many websites don’t talk about. In this guide, we’ll dive into some lesser-known cleaning hacks, backed by statistics, to help you maintain a tidy home while living with a four-legged friend.

The Reality of Pet Messes

Even the cleanest dogs contribute to household messes in different ways. Here are some of the most common culprits:

Shedding Fur – Dogs shed, and depending on the breed, some shed a lot. Studies by the American Kennel Club show that a dog can shed up to 60,000 hairs per day. Fur can accumulate on carpets, furniture, and clothing, creating extra work for pet owners.
Dirty Paws – A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that pet paws can carry bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella, which can be transferred to floors and furniture. After a walk, dogs can also track in dirt, mud, and even chemicals like lawn pesticides.
Odors – According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, pet dander and bacteria contribute to indoor air pollution. Dog beds, upholstery, and carpets often trap these odors, making them hard to remove.
Accidents and Stains – Even well-trained dogs occasionally have accidents. A Purdue University study found that pet urine, if not cleaned properly, can penetrate flooring and cause long-term odor issues.
Chewing and Scratching – Dogs love to chew, and this can lead to damaged furniture, shoes, and even walls. Scratching behaviors can also wear down flooring and upholstery over time.

Lesser-Known Cleaning Strategies

Many articles tell you to vacuum more and bathe your dog often, but what about the lesser-known tricks that really make a difference?

1. Use Cooking Spray on Food Bowls

Did you know that dog food bowls can develop tough stains and bacteria buildup? A light spray of cooking oil before serving food can prevent gunk from sticking to the bowl, making cleanup easier. Plus, it’s safe for your pet.

2. Velcro Hair Rollers in Laundry

Pet hair can cling to clothing and bedding, making it difficult to remove. Instead of just relying on dryer sheets, try adding a couple of Velcro hair rollers to your washing machine. The sticky surface will grab loose hair, reducing the amount that gets stuck in the fabric.

3. Squeegee for Carpet Hair Removal

Vacuuming doesn’t always pick up all the pet hair from carpets and rugs. A rubber squeegee, commonly used for cleaning windows, works wonders at lifting stubborn pet hair from carpet fibers. Simply drag it across the surface and watch the hair clump together for easy removal.

4. DIY Cleaning Station by the Door

A muddy paw station near the entrance can prevent dirt from spreading throughout your home. Keep a small towel, baby wipes, and a shallow water tray by the door. Train your dog to stop at the station before entering the house so you can wipe their paws clean.

5. Match Your Furniture and Flooring to Your Dog’s Fur

If you’re planning a home renovation or buying new furniture, consider choosing colors that match your dog’s fur. This won’t reduce the mess, but it will make shedding less noticeable and reduce the appearance of fur between cleanings.

6. Baking Soda for Odor Control

Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, rugs, and dog beds before vacuuming to absorb odors. Baking soda neutralizes pet smells instead of just masking them with fragrance.

7. Machine-Washable Furniture Covers

Invest in washable slipcovers for sofas, chairs, and dog beds. These are much easier to clean than scrubbing upholstery, and they help protect furniture from stains and fur buildup.

8. Air Purifier with HEPA Filter

Pet dander can cause allergies and contribute to household dust. A HEPA air purifier helps trap pet hair and allergens, improving the quality of air quality. Look for one specifically designed for pet owners.

Professional Help: ProClean’s Pet-Friendly Cleaning Services

Even with the best at-home cleaning strategies, pet messes can still build up over time. If you need extra help maintaining a spotless home, ProClean offers professional House Cleaning Maple Ridge. Our team understands the unique challenges pet owners face and uses safe, effective cleaning methods to tackle pet hair, odors, and stains.

Why choose ProClean?

Pet-Safe Cleaning Products – We use non-toxic, pet-friendly solutions to keep your home fresh and safe for your furry friends.
Deep Cleaning for Floors & Upholstery – Our deep-cleaning methods remove pet hair and embedded dirt from carpets, rugs, and furniture.
Odor Elimination – Say goodbye to lingering pet smells with our specialized deodorizing treatments.
Convenience for Busy Pet Owners – Let us handle the mess so you can spend more time with your dog.

Key Takeaways

Consistent cleaning routines and strategic home adjustments make a big difference in controlling pet messes.
Lesser-known tricks like cooking spray for bowls, Velcro rollers in laundry, and squeegees for pet hair can simplify cleaning.
Investing in washable furniture covers, air purifiers, and pet-friendly cleaning stations can significantly reduce pet-related messes.
ProClean’s professional cleaning services in Maple Ridge can help pet owners maintain a spotless home.

Keeping your home clean with a dog doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. By implementing these clever cleaning hacks, you can enjoy a fresher, tidier living space while still letting your pup roam freely. Need extra help? ProClean is here for pet owners in Maple Ridge! Our expert team will deep clean your home, remove stubborn pet messes, and ensure a healthier space for you and your furry friend. Schedule a cleaning appointment today and experience the ProClean difference!