How to keep your house clean with pets

From muddy pawprints to shedding fur and the occasional accident, pets bring a lot of joy – but a fair bit of mess! Whether you’ve got a dog, cat or something more exotic, keeping your home clean with pets around can feel like a constant challenge.

The good news? With the right tools, routine and a few key habits, cleaning with pets doesn’t have to be a full-time job.

In this guide, we’ll cover how often to clean your carpets with pets, how to deep clean your home, and what’s safe to use – especially around animals.

How to keep your house clean with pets

A consistent routine makes all the difference. Staying on top of day-to-day mess means you won’t need to do a full deep clean quite as often.

Vacuum regularly – especially soft surfaces

Fur, dander and dust settle fast, particularly on carpets and upholstery. Vacuum at least two to three times a week in high-traffic areas, or daily if your pet sheds heavily. Don’t forget to go over soft furnishings like sofas and beds – pet hair loves to hide in cushions and corners.

Using a vacuum designed for pet homes can save you time and hassle. Hoover’s pet-specific vacuum cleaners come with specialist nozzles and anti-hair wrap technology, designed to tackle even the most stubborn fur.

Mop hard floors frequently

Pet mess, food, and muddy prints can leave hard floors sticky or stained. Mopping two to three times a week helps keep your space hygienic. If you have pets that go outside, keep a mat by the door to catch dirt before it spreads.

 Wash bedding and blankets

Pet bedding can harbour smells, bacteria and allergens. Wash it once a week on a hot cycle, and add towels or throws your pet uses regularly. This simple step makes a big difference to how fresh your home feels.

How to deep clean a house with pets

Every now and then, it’s worth doing a more thorough clean – especially if your pet has had an accident or you’re noticing lingering odours.

• Vacuum everywhere, including under furniture and behind appliances
• Use a spot cleaner to lift stains from carpets and upholstery
• Steam mop hard floors for a chemical-free deep clean
• Wash or wipe down skirting boards and pet-access areas like doorframes and under windows
• Empty and clean the vacuum filter if you’ve picked up a lot of fur

For spot treatment and smaller spaces, Hoover’s HS5 Spot Wash & Dry models are a smart option. They’re ideal for carpets, rugs, and upholstery – great for everyday stains and quick clean-ups.

How often should you clean your carpet with pets?

Carpets trap fur, dirt, allergens and bacteria more easily than hard flooring, so they need regular attention.

For homes with pets, we recommend:

• Vacuuming at least 2–3 times a week, or daily in heavy-use areas
• Deep cleaning with a carpet washer every 1–2 months, depending on the level of use
• Spot cleaning immediately when there’s a spill, stain or accident

The more frequently your pet sheds, the more often you’ll need to clean. Our spot washers are compact enough for quick use, meaning you don’t need to bring out a full carpet cleaner every time something happens.

What to clean carpet with after pet urine

If your pet has an accident, quick action helps prevent permanent stains and smells.

Step 1: Blot, don’t rub

Use paper towels or an old cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible. Press firmly and repeat with clean cloths until the area feels dry.

Step 2: Clean with pet-safe solution

Use a carpet cleaner specifically designed for pet stains, or a mix of white vinegar and water (with a 1:1 ratio). Avoid products with ammonia, as they can attract pets back to the same spot.

Step 3: Rinse and extract

If you have a spot washer, now’s the time to use it. These machines lift out moisture and dirt more effectively than hand cleaning. 

Is cleaning with bleach safe for pets?

In short: not really. While diluted bleach may be used in some household cleaning, it’s not recommended around pets. Fumes can irritate their respiratory systems, and if they walk on a surface before it’s fully rinsed and dry, they could ingest traces by licking their paws.

Instead, use pet-safe cleaners that are clearly labelled as non-toxic. For deeper cleans, steam is a great chemical-free option – particularly on hard floors and tiles.

How to keep furniture clean with pets

Sofas, chairs and beds can quickly become covered in fur or develop a lingering smell. Here’s how to stay on top of it:

Use washable throws or covers

Place a throw or blanket over the areas your pet likes to sit. It’s easier to wash a blanket weekly than to constantly clean upholstery.

Vacuum upholstery regularly

Use the upholstery tool on your vacuum cleaner at least once a week. A pet vacuum with a motorised brush is especially useful for lifting fur from fabric fibres.

Spot clean when needed

If your pet drools, has an accident or leaves a muddy mark, act fast. Hoover’s spot cleaners work well on sofas and cushions – just make sure the fabric is water-safe before using.

Looking for pet-friendly cleaning tools that do the job?

At Hoover, we know what life with pets is like, which is why we’ve developed cleaning tools that help you stay on top of mess without the stress.

From pet-specific vacuum cleaners to compact spot washers, our range is designed to deal with everyday challenges like shedding, odours and muddy prints. Whether you need a deep clean or a quick tidy, you’ll find tools that are lightweight, powerful and built for busy households.