Keeping a clean and tidy home when you own pets can be a challenge, especially with dogs who tend to have free reign over the space. From muddy paws to nuisance fur and odours, there are some considerations dog-owners need to think about when cleaning and decorating their home, especially in high-traffic areas like the hallway.
With National Pet Awareness Month underway in April, Jackson Woodturners stair part specialists have teamed up with a range of experts, to create a useful guide on how to design and maintain a clean, functional, safe and stylish hallway space – designed with dogs in mind.
Cleaning expert Georgina Shepherd from Housekeep shares her top tips for maintaining a clean and fresh-smelling hallway. The is usually the first room guests see when entering into your home and for dog owners, keeping this area looking and smelling great requires a few clever cleaning hacks.
Expert Dog-Friendly Tips for a Clean & Fresh Hallway:
Georgina Shepherd, Cleaning Expert at Housekeep told Jackson Woodturners,
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Vacuum Regularly
Regular vacuuming is key, no matter what type of flooring you have. Otherwise, pet hair and dirt can quickly build up, leading to odours. If you’re using a vacuum, opt for one with a HEPA filter (also known as a high-efficiency particulate air filter). It’s great for getting rid of pet dander and keeping your hallway as clean as possible.
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Make use of Washable Mats
It may sound obvious, but putting a washable mat near the door is super handy for keeping your hallway cleaner for longer. This helps catch any mud or dirt from your dog’s paws before they track it through the house. Then you can simply pop it in the washing machine as needed.
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Keep a Towel by the Door
This will be especially handy for rainy days. Drying your dog off as soon as they come in can prevent wet dog smells and muddy paw prints throughout your home. I would recommend keeping a small basket near the entrance stocked with a spare towel and other essentials, like paw wipes or a brush. That way, everything is within reach when you need it, but neatly stored so your hallway doesn’t feel cluttered.
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Use Washable Paint in High-Traffic Areas
Consider using washable paint for your walls. Dogs often shake off water as soon as they step inside, and being able to wipe down the walls easily can make a huge difference in keeping your hallway looking fresh.
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Eliminate Odours with Baking Soda and Essential Oils
A good trick for eliminating that ‘dog’ smell from your hallway carpets is to sprinkle a mixture of baking soda and a few drops of essential oils onto your carpet. Let this sit for a good few hours so it can absorb any odours before vacuuming. Just make sure any oils you use are pet safe!
Lucie Jackson, Director and Interiors Expert at Jackson Woodturners said,
“Designing a dog-friendly home shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on style. That’s why we created this guide. With a little planning, your hallway can become a welcoming, practical, and stylish space that meets the needs of every member of the household, four-legged ones included!”
By implementing these simple yet effective tips, dog owners can enjoy a cleaner, fresher hallway without the constant battle against pet mess.
For further guidance from experts in cleaning, home decor and canine behaviours, visit Jackson Woodturners’ guide to dog-friendly hallways, which has been published for National Pet Awareness Month.
- Georgina Shepherd