How to Refresh Your Home and Keep Pets Safe
Spring is here — flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and that undeniable urge to deep-clean hits. But if you share your home with furry friends, spring cleaning for pet owners isn’t just about sparkling counters and dust-free shelves. It’s also about making sure your pets stay safe, comfortable, and happy during the process.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to refresh your home while keeping your pets’ health and happiness in mind.
Why Spring Cleaning is Important for Pet Owners
Let’s be honest — living with pets brings endless joy… and endless fur! Pet hair, dander, and tracked-in dirt can quickly build up, especially during the winter when we tend to stay indoors more.
Spring is the perfect time to:
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Remove hidden allergens and irritants
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Prevent pests like fleas and ticks
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Improve your home’s air quality
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Create a clean, inviting space for both you and your pets
Cleaning your home doesn’t just make it look better — it can directly impact your pet’s health and well-being.
Free Printable!
Want to make your spring cleaning easier (and pet-safe)? Download my FREE Pet-Safe Spring Cleaning Checklist below and make your home fresh and pet-friendly.
Choosing Pet-Safe Cleaning Products
Not all cleaning products are pet-friendly. Many common cleaners contain ingredients like bleach, ammonia, and phenols, which can be dangerous or even deadly for pets.
Here’s what to look for:
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Avoid: Bleach, ammonia, formaldehyde, phenols, and artificial fragrances.
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Choose: Enzymatic cleaners, vinegar-based solutions, or products specifically labeled as pet-safe.
My Recommended Pet-Safe Cleaning Products:
These products have worked great for me over the years, especially during kitten fosters and messy cat moments.
Room-by-Room Spring Cleaning Checklist
Living Room
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Vacuum pet beds, rugs, and furniture (use a pet hair attachment!)
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Wash covers, blankets, and throws
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Clean under and behind furniture — you’ll be surprised what’s hiding back there
Kitchen
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Deep-clean your pet’s feeding station
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Wash food and water bowls thoroughly
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Organize and safely store pet food and treats
Bedrooms
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Wash bedding (yours and your pet’s)
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Vacuum carpets and curtains
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Replace or clean air filters
Bathrooms
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Organize grooming supplies
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Safely store pet medications and cleaning chemicals
Yard or Balcony
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Remove any toxic plants or hazardous debris
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Wash outdoor pet toys
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Check fences and gates for safety
Pet Hair & Odor Control Tips
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Invest in a high-quality pet hair vacuum — I love my Shark TruePet
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Use air purifiers to reduce allergens
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DIY odor remover: Mix vinegar, water, and a drop of pet-safe essential oil in a spray bottle
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Brush your pets regularly to reduce shedding
Keeping up with pet hair will make your entire home feel lighter and fresher!
Recommended Product
I personally recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum — it’s a game changer for pet hair control!
How to Minimize Pet Stress During Cleaning
Cleaning can be chaotic for pets, especially with loud noises and strange smells. Here are a few ways to help:
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Give them a quiet, comfortable space away from the action
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Stick to their regular routines as much as possible
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Use calming aids like pheromone diffusers (affiliate link)
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Never confine them in areas being cleaned with strong odors or chemicals
Bonus: Refresh Pet Toys & Gear
Don’t forget your pet’s things during spring cleaning!
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Wash or replace worn-out toys
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Clean collars, harnesses, and leashes
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Organize your pet’s supplies (donate what you don’t need)
Final Thoughts on Spring Cleaning for Pet Owners
Spring cleaning isn’t just about making your home sparkle — it’s about creating a healthier space for you and your pets. With a few simple adjustments, you can declutter, refresh, and protect your furry family members all at once.
To make it even easier, I created a free printable Pet-Safe Spring Cleaning Checklist just for you!
Free Printable!
Want to make your spring cleaning easier (and pet-safe)? Download my FREE Pet-Safe Spring Cleaning Checklist below and make your home fresh and pet-friendly.
Happy cleaning (and cuddling)!