VWB Blog As of 2022, over 84 million Americans have pets in their homes. This means that around 65 percent of all US citizens include pet care in their daily routines.
Unfortunately, with all those pets comes a lot of undesirable pet odors! But having pets in the home doesn’t have to mean there are odors in the home as well. Is your house in desperate need of pet odor removal?
The following guide will explore the most common myths about pet odor removal and which techniques work.
Do Cleaning Products With Ammonia Work Best?
The most common household cleaning products use ammonia, so you might be quick to use one for pet stains. However, ammonia-based products might make odor problems worse because ammonia is found naturally in urine.
So, if your dog or cat catches the scent of ammonia they might feel compelled to mark the area and you’ll have more cleaning to do. Ammonia cleaners can also irritate the eyes, skin, and throats of your pets so it’s best to avoid them completely.
There are several all-natural enzyme cleaners available on the market that you can use instead.
How About Using Vinegar?
Some homeowners try using white vinegar and baking soda for pet stains if they’re in a pinch but know that it’s not as effective as enzyme cleaners. Enzyme cleaners use protein compounds to eliminate odors for good, unlike vinegar solutions.
It’s also important to note that vinegar might damage wood furniture and remove polish because it’s acidic.
Can Scented Candles Cover Pet Odors?
Some scented candles claim to be odor eliminators but they won’t get the job done. Plus, they’re a fire hazard and shouldn’t get used for long periods.
even the smoke from candles might cause harm to your pet’s breathing or cause an allergic reaction. Instead of a candle, try using a scent diffuser instead.
Some examples of pet-safe scents to use in the diffuser include chamomile, peppermint, frankincense, ginger, and lavender. You can browse through these scent diffusers and get an idea of available options.
Bleach Fixes Everything, Right?
Bleach is the disinfectant chemical of choice for many homeowners but it’s not safe for pets. Bleach can cause pets to have convulsions, nausea, and vomiting, and it might lead to death in some cases. even death.
You can still use bleach in your home, but avoid surfaces where your pet might come into contact with it. Also, never mix bleach vinegar or ammonia because the combination makes toxic vapors that might harm you or your pet.
Understanding Pet Odor Removal
Now you know the best methods for pet odor removal and which myths to consider debunked. Remember, keep it natural, stick to enzyme-based cleaners, and choose diffusers with pet-safe scents over candles.
We hope this guide helps keep your pets safe and your home smelling fantastic. The next time you find a mess, don’t reach for the bleach or ammonia because you have better options! Check out our home decor category for more awesome tips and tricks.