International Dog Day: 5 Ways to Keep Your Home Fresh & Odor Free

Happy International Dog Day! If you're a dog owner, you know that our furry friends can bring a lot of joy into our lives. They can also bring with them a little mess (and smells). But they love them nonetheless!

Don’t let dog odors get you down. Keep reading to discover a few ways to make your home smell fresh and clean, and be a home you want to be in!

1. Vacuum Regularly

This is probably the most important tip on the list. Vacuuming helps to remove dirt, dust, and dander from your home. Doing this regularly will help reduce the amount of dander in your home and keep those unpleasant pet smells at bay. 

Pick a day of the week (or two if you have a consistent shedder) to add vacuuming to your cleaning schedule. And vacuum everything—your floors, rugs, couches, curtains, and your mattress if you let your furry friend snuggle up with you at night.

Pro Tip: Speaking of your mattress—if you let your pet sleep in bed with you, we suggest investing in a mattress protector or mattress encasement. Whichever you choose, it will help increase the longevity of your mattress and help keep it looking, feeling, and smelling fresh. And you won’t have to worry about vacuuming your mattress as much. All you’ll have to do is throw the mattress protector into the wash. Easy peasy!

2. Use Natural Methods for Freshening the Air & Cleaning

When it comes to keeping your home fresh with a furry friend around, choosing the right cleaning and deodorizing solutions is key. Not all products are created equal, especially when it comes to effectively tackling pet-related odors and stains. 

When choosing cleaning essentials for everyday messes, whether pet-related or not, make sure to read the labels and opt for non-toxic solutions to protect both your pet and your household. If you’re looking for a safe, naturally scented linen freshener, check out our Cosy House Lavender Linen Spray. It contains gentle ingredients that help reduce odors between washes.

If you prefer natural alternatives, want to save some money, or forgot to pick up your go-to cleaning products, you can create your own cleaning solutions using common household items. For instance, a mixture of vinegar and water can effectively neutralize odors, while baking soda sprinkled on carpets before vacuuming can help absorb unpleasant smells. These simple yet effective solutions can be a lifesaver in maintaining a fresh environment, especially when you’re in a pinch.

3. Make Sure Fido Gets Regular Groomings

A fresh, clean dog helps keep a fresh, clean home. Keep these grooming tips in mind:

Brushing

Regular brushing is essential for controlling shedding, removing loose hair, and preventing mats or tangles. Use a brush suitable for your dog's coat type and spend a few minutes each day to keep their fur in top condition. Not only does this reduce the amount of loose hair in your home, but it also helps distribute natural oils, keeping their coat healthy and odor-free.

Bathing

How often you bathe your pet will depend on the type of pet you have and how much they shed. Bathing your dog at regular intervals helps remove dirt, allergens, and odors from their skin and coat. Avoid over-bathing, as it can strip the natural oils from your dog's skin, leading to dryness and potential odor issues. 

Trimming

Keeping your dog's nails trimmed is not only important for their comfort, but also for maintaining cleanliness. Invest in a quality pair of dog nail clippers or consider professional nail trims if you're not confident in doing it yourself. Regularly check their ears and trim excessive hair around the ears and paws to prevent matting and potential odor buildup.

By incorporating these grooming practices into your routine, you can significantly reduce shedding, minimize odors, and promote a healthier and happier living environment for both you and your furry friend. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking their best but also contributes to a fresh and inviting home.

4. Wash Your Dog’s Bed (and Your Bed) Regularly

Taking care of your dog's bedding and managing furniture can greatly contribute to keeping your home fresh and clean. Dogs spend a significant amount of time resting and sleeping, so it's essential to pay attention to their beds and the impact they can have on your living environment.

Here are some tips when it comes to choosing the right bedding (for both of you) and washing them:

Your Dog’s Bedding

Just like your own sheets and blankets, your dog's bedding needs regular washing to remove dirt, hair, and odors. Choose a dog bed that is easy to clean, like one with a removable cover that is machine washable. Materials play a role, too. When selecting a dog bed, consider materials that are resistant to odor. Look for beds made of waterproof or moisture-resistant fabrics that are less likely to retain odors or absorb stains. 

Your Bedding

Speaking of your own sheets and blankets—Cosy House has you covered with ultra-comfy “pet-friendly” bedding options. Our luxury bedding is made from a moisture-wicking, durable, hypoallergenic, and machine-washable material that is perfect for you and your pup to soak up some snuggle time. 

If you want to learn more about our top bedding picks for pet owners, check out our blog Pet Parent? 9 Things You Need to Help Keep Your Home Fresh

Washing Tips

• Wash your bedding at least once a week
• Pay attention to care instructions
• Use a mild detergent, and consider one that is hypoallergenic
• Spray your bedding with a gentle linen spray in between washes

5. Be Patient

Above all else, be patient with your pet. It takes time and effort to keep your home fresh with a pet. However, if you follow these tips, you'll be well on your way to a clean and fresh home in no time!

Keeping your home fresh with a furry friend can be a challenge, but it's definitely possible with a little effort. By following the tips, you can keep your home smelling clean and inviting, even with a pet around.

If you’re ready to check out Cosy House’s full line of luxury bedding and other home essentials, click here to start shopping!

We've gone ahead & enclosed a 10% off coupon below for you to use if you'd like to take the plunge and try out our sheets for yourself! To shop our collection & get 10% OFF Use the code 'BLOG10' at checkout.

And with all of that being said—Happy International Dog Day to all the pups out there (and their loyal pet parents)! 

If you’re a pet parent, what are some of your tried and tested ways to keep your home fresh? Let us know in the comments! We love hearing from our Cosy Community!