If you’re a pet owner, you know the joy of watching your furry friend bound around the garden, chase a ball, or wrestle with their favourite toy. But with all that fun comes the inevitable aftermath, muddy paw prints, scattered fur, and the occasional mystery stain. Here’s your go-to guide for cleaning after pets South Africa style, where the dust, fur, and mess can be as unique as the climate we live in.
1. Wipe down paws before they come inside
One of the simplest ways to cut down on post-play cleaning is by catching the dirt before it enters your home. Keep a towel or pet-friendly wet wipes near the door to quickly clean paws. This will help prevent muddy streaks on your floors and furniture, especially important during Cape Town’s rainy season or after a romp in Johannesburg’s red soil. This simple habit saves time on scrubbing floors later. For exterior cleaning, check our guide on maintaining your patio and deck.
2. Vacuum and sweep regularly for fur control
After play-time, it’s a good idea to gather up all your pet’s toys and give them a clean. Plush toys can go in the washing machine (use a gentle cycle and mild Fur has a sneaky way of travelling everywhere. Invest in a vacuum cleaner designed to pick up pet hair. Make a habit of running it over high-traffic areas after play sessions. For tiled or wooden floors, a quick sweep will keep things tidy and prevent hair from gathering in corners.
3. Tidy and wash pet toys and bedding
After play-time, it’s a good idea to gather up all your pet’s toys and bedding. Plush toys can go in the washing machine (use a gentle cycle and mild detergent), while rubber and plastic toys can be rinsed in warm, soapy water. This keeps them safe and helps control odours. Making this a regular chore is key to keeping your home fresh. Washing bedding and toys is an important part of any regular washing bedding and toys schedule.
4. Spot-clean messes immediately
Accidents happen. From muddy splashes on the couch to the occasional indoor mishap, the faster you tackle these spots, the easier they are to clean. Use pet-safe cleaning solutions and blot the area to prevent stains from setting. Using an enzyme-based cleaner is essential for eliminating odours and preventing repeat incidents in the same spot.
5. Wash bedding and blankets
If your pet collapses on their bed or blanket after play-time, those items will quickly collect dirt, fur, and smells. Wash bedding weekly to keep your home feeling fresh and your pet’s space hygienic. This simple, consistent step is crucial for overall home hygiene.
Focus on the fun.
Cleaning after pets can feel like a never-ending task, but with a few quick habits and the right tools, you can enjoy the best parts of pet ownership without the mess taking over. If the clean-up ever feels overwhelming, consider booking a trusted cleaning professional through Sweepsouth. They can help restore your home to a spotless, fur-free haven, so you can focus on the fun moments with your furry companion.
ALSO SEE: HOW TO KEEP A DOG-FRIENDLY HOME SMELLING FRESH.
