Windows have been closed all winter. Air hasn’t circulated much. With the boiler or furnace running all day long, odors have built up. When you enter your dad’s home, you can’t help but notice the pet odors. How do you get rid of pet odors and keep them from returning?
Start With Pet Stains and Messes
What is causing the odor? If your dad’s cat is always missing the litter box or not using it because it hasn’t been cleaned, you have two options. First, a larger litter box will help with accidents caused by missing the box. If your dad isn’t cleaning it enough, a self-cleaning litter box is a must.
Get a pet enzyme spray or mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Soak the area where the cat’s been missing and let it soak for several hours. Scrub and retreat with more spray or peroxide mixture.
Freshen the Dog’s Bed
If the odor is mainly a sweaty/dirty dog, there are a few things you can do. Wash the dog’s bed cover, if possible, or take the bed outside. Cover the bed in baking soda and let it sit in the sun. Vacuum it thoroughly and see if the odor has gone.
If you can wash the bed’s cover, spray the bed with a homemade bleach cleaner to kill any odorous bacteria. Let it dry completely before you place the freshly washed cover back on.
It could also be time to replace the dog bed. Make sure the replacement has a washable cover. You could also look for a dog bed that is machine washable to make it easier for you. Commercial washers at a laundromat do a great job at washing whole dog beds.
Wash Upholstery and Carpet to Remove Odors
Rent a carpet shampooer that has an upholstery attachment. Purchase a cleaner designed to eliminate pet odors. Wash all furniture and all of the carpets with that shampooer. Run fans to make sure they dry quickly.
Before the dog gets up on the sofa, cover it with a pet furniture cover. That cover can be washed every few weeks to keep odors away.
Run an Air Purifier
An air purifier will keep pet dander to a minimum. It helps reduce odors, too. With energy-efficient models available in many stores, there is a cost-effective appliance that will remove pet odors, limit dust, dander, and fur, and help make the pet-friendly home smell better all winter long.
Rely on home care services to keep up with cleaning tasks. You can have caregivers stop by to vacuum, do the laundry, dust, mop, and sweep. Caregivers also work with you to make sure your dad has the help he needs while remaining independent in his home.
A home care agency will advise you into all of the possible services and work with you to find the ideal schedule. Call to learn more about housekeeping and laundry services.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Health Care in Sunny Vale, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
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