10 carpet cleaning tips for pet owners

Carpet cleaning tips for pet owners

If you're a pet owner, you know the joy and companionship that furry friends bring into your life. However, along with that joy comes the inevitable challenge of keeping your carpets clean and fresh. Fear not, fellow pet lovers! In this guide, we'll walk you through some tried-and-true carpet cleaning tips to help you maintain a clean and odour-free home while enjoying the company of your four-legged pals.

1. Wet messes

Pets and accidents go hand in paw. Whether it's a puppy's little accident or a senior cat's protest, dealing with wet messes is part of the pet ownership journey.

The key here is swift action and most importantly, do not panic. Blot up as much moisture as possible using paper towels or cotton towels.

But remember, don't stomp on those paper towels, as it can push the mess deeper into the carpet fibres.

- Don't stomp on paper towels

As tempting as it might be to stomp on those paper towels to absorb the mess, resist the urge.

Pressing down by force can cause the liquid to seep deeper into the carpet and pad, making it harder to clean thoroughly.

Instead, gently blot the area to soak up the moisture.

- Cotton towels and lightweight

Opt for cotton towels when cleaning up wet messes. Cotton is absorbent and won't leave behind fibres that can get caught in your carpet.

Lightweight towels are best, as heavy ones might soak up more liquid than you can easily manage.

‍

Remember, the goal is to remove as much moisture as possible.‍

2. Strategically placed rugs

Prevention is critical when it comes to protecting your carpets from pet messes.

Strategically placing rugs or mats in high-traffic pet areas can help catch dirt and moisture before they reach your carpets.

Just make sure to choose rugs that are easy to clean, like those made from durable materials.‍

3. Use a carpet stain remover

A good quality carpet stain remover is your best friend for those inevitable stains pets can leave behind.

Choose a product specifically formulated to tackle pet stains and odours. Follow the label instructions carefully to lift the stain and eliminate the smell.

We have developed our own carpet and upholstery stain remover, which we gift our customers. You can also buy it on eBay here.

4. Use a spoon or wallpaper scraper for solids

Solid messes, like vomit or pet waste, can be challenging to clean up. Instead of panicking, grab a spoon or wallpaper scraper to lift and scoop up the mess gently. Be cautious not to press too hard; you don't want to push the solids into the carpet fibres.

5. Be careful of oxygenated pet stain removers

While oxygenated pet stain removers can be effective, they can also bleach certain types of carpets.

Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before using any new cleaning product. Testing will help you avoid unintentional discolouration.

6. Avoid the temptation of a home remedy

When dealing with pet stains, reaching for everyday household items like vinegar and baking soda is tempting.

However, some remedies can worsen the situation by setting the stain or damaging the carpet fibres. Stick to pet-specific cleaners for the best results.

7. Rubber brushes

A rubber brush can be a game changer if your pet's hair seems to be taking over your carpets. The static charge created by rubber helps attract and lift pet hair from the carpet fibres. Regularly brushing the area with a rubber brush can significantly reduce the fur in your carpets.‍

8. Wool carpets

‍If you're lucky enough to have wool carpets, you know they're luxurious but require special care.

Blot wet messes gently and consult the manufacturer's guidelines for cleaning instructions. Wool can be more sensitive to cleaning products, so choosing products safe for wool fibres is essential.

9. Bonus tip: treat your carpet to a professional cleaning session

Pet messes can leave lingering odours and stains over time, no matter how diligent you are.

Consider treating your carpets to a professional cleaning session at least once a year. Professional carpet cleaners have the equipment and expertise to deep-clean your carpets and remove stubborn stains.

10. Bonus tip: fabric protectors

Consider applying a fabric protector to your carpets for an extra layer of protection against pet messes.

These products create a barrier that repels liquids and makes cleaning up accidents easier. Just be sure to choose a safe protector for your specific type of carpet. 

See how our fabric protector works in the video here.

Conclusion

Being a pet owner doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the cleanliness of your home. Following these carpet cleaning tips and tricks, you can keep your carpets looking and smelling fresh, even in the face of fur, accidents, and muddy paws.

Remember, the key is prompt action, the right tools, and a little prevention. With these strategies in your toolkit, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a clean home and the company of your beloved pets.