Furry friends are the best friends. They fill your heart with love, but also can fill your house with a mess. According to the American Veterinary Association, 36.5% of households have dogs and 30.4% of households have cats. Pet owners’ homes are more prone to messes and bacteria. However, it is possible to keep your home clean and have pets.

Here are some tips on how to keep home fresh for your guests:

Prevent the Hair from Spreading

It is inevitable that your animal is going to shed. Try placing a slipcover, blanket or towel in your pet’s favorite place. This will help capture some of the hair in an easy way, so you can take it outside to shake it all out before washing. Grooming and bathing your pet on a regular basis will also help keep your pet from shedding too much.

Vacuum, and Vacuum Some More

The vacuum will be your best friend. If you have carpet floors, you should vacuum 2-3 times a week to help pick up hair. This isn’t efficient for hard floors. In those cases, use dust mops or a broom to help pick up the hair.

Stay Stocked Up on Cleaning Supplies

Make sure you are cleaning after your pet when they make a mess. If not cleaned soon enough, your pet might believe that leaving a mess is appropriate behavior. Be careful with the cleaner that you use around the house. Some may be harmful to them. Pet stores typically carry pet-friendly, ammonia-free cleaners for you to use.

Pets Need Beds Too

Provide a bed for your pet so that they have their own space. They will be looking for a spot that is comfortable, so create a space made for them. They will then spend more time in their bed and less on your furniture. Make sure you clean their bed at least once a month. You can also use odor-eliminating spray to help keep it fresh.

Clean Paws are the Best Paws

No one likes it when mud and other gunk is dragged through their house. After walks, clean your pet’s paws with room temperature water and dry them off to keep the dirt outside. Try to use the same entrance so your paw cleaning supplies are always handy. It’s quick and easy; plus, it means less cleaning for you.