If you share a home with any furry friends, you know how quickly your carpets can lose their freshness. Between muddy paws, shedding, and the occasional accident, even the most well-loved pets can leave their mark. Fortunately, by applying a few smart habits and investing in professional care, you can eliminate pet odors and keep your carpets looking and smelling clean all year round.
1. Vacuum Frequently
Pet hair, dander, and dirt can settle deep into carpet fibers. Regular vacuuming — at least two to three times per week — helps prevent buildup. Invest in a vacuum designed for homes with pets, ideally one with a HEPA filter, strong suction, and a rotating brush roll to capture fine hair and allergens.
Tip: Sprinkle a bit of baking soda liberally on the carpet, let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes or longer, then vacuum it up. This will help neutralize pet odors.
2. Wipe Paws at the Door
Keep a towel or pet-friendly wipes near entrances so you can clean your pet’s paws before they track in dirt or moisture. This simple step can help you drastically cut down on stains, odors, and debris.
3. Address Accidents Quickly
When accidents happen (and they will), you need to act quickly. Blot up moisture immediately with paper towels or a clean cloth (never rub as that can spread the stain). Then, use a pet-safe carpet cleaner or mix water with white vinegar to create a solution to neutralize pet odors and bacteria. If you need to clean any solid waste, use a putty knife and a dustpan, as rags and paper towels can push bacteria deeper into your carpet.
Note: If pet odors persist, professional cleaning may be needed to treat the carpet padding and underlying layers.
4. Groom Your Pet Regularly
Regular brushing and grooming help reduce shedding and the spread of dander. A cleaner pet means a cleaner carpet. Consider scheduling more frequent baths during shedding seasons and using a deshedding shampoo.
Additional Tip: Keep your pets’ nails trimmed to avoid carpet snags and unraveling fibers.
5. Use Area Rugs and Runners
In high-traffic or pet-prone areas, use washable rugs to protect your carpet underneath. They’re easier to clean and replace when needed — and they add a cozy touch to the space.
6. Deodorize Naturally
Skip harsh chemicals. Instead, use natural options like baking soda, essential oil sprays, or enzyme-based cleaners made especially for pet homes. These break down odor-causing bacteria, while keeping you, your family, and your furry friends safe.
Tip: Enzyme cleaners are specifically designed to break down organic compounds like urine, vomit, and drool. They also digest odor-causing bacteria and fully eliminate the smell.
7. Maintain Pet Areas
Keep pet beds and litter boxes clean to prevent odors and debris from transferring to the carpet. Wash bedding with a pet-friendly detergent and dry thoroughly, and consider investing in bedding with removable covers that can be easily washed or replaced.
8. Control Humidity Levels
Moisture in the air can reactivate old pet odors trapped in carpet fibers. Use a dehumidifier during humid months to help keep smells under control and prevent mold and mildew growth from lingering accidents.
9. Schedule Professional Carpet Cleaning
Even with regular upkeep, odors, allergens, and bacteria can get trapped deep in your carpet fibers. Professional steam cleaning or hot water extraction can remove what your vacuum can’t, leaving your home fresher, healthier, and more comfortable for you and your pets.
Additional Tips for Keeping Your Carpets Clean
Use Doormats — Place mats at all entrances to trap dirt before it reaches your main carpet.
Remove Shoes — Ask family and guests to remove their shoes to prevent tracking in dirt, grime, and bacteria.
Rotate Furniture — Periodically move furniture to prevent permanent indentations and to revitalize carpet fibers.
Maintain Air Filters — Change the air filters in your HVAC system once a month to reduce airborne particles from settling on carpets, as well as ensure the air in your home is clean and fresh.
Consider Carpet Protection — Apply a carpet protector, as it can help resist stains and reduce wear and tear.
Keep Your Home Fresh and Pet-Friendly
Keeping your carpets fresh when you have pets doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With consistent maintenance, quick cleanup habits, and routine professional care, you can enjoy a clean, healthy home without sacrificing the comfort of your pets.
If you have stubborn pet odors or deep-set stains you can remove, contact All American Cleaning & Restoration for carpet cleaning, and we will make sure your carpets continue to look their best.