Sixty-eight percent of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet, according to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA). Of those, about 35% own a pet that goes outside on a regular basis. This means dirt and germs can be tracked in by our furry family members. Tracked in dirt and debris can be very abrasive on all types of flooring especially carpet and hardwood floors. Below are tips and tricks on keeping your floors looking new, without getting rid of the beloved family pet!

Floors and How to Keep Clean

• Brush your pet – Cats and dogs shed and can leave fur lying around on our floors. Brushing them regularly helps remove any loose fur that may be dropped on the floor. Brushing them outside (if possible), also keeps the fur from blowing around inside.
• Clean your pets (especially after walks) – Dogs can bring in dirt and debris depending on weather conditions where they are walked. Cleaning off their paws before entering the home can prevent the dirt/debris from entering!
• Keep nails trimmed – Cutting your pets claws on a regular schedule will not only be more comfortable for them, but prevent scratches on hardwood or laminate floors.
• Use high quality tools – Pet friendly vacuums and brooms (or dry mops) are helpful in keeping household floors clean. Creating a cleaning routine helps keep hair/fur levels down and high traffic areas clean longer.
• Accidents? Clean quickly! – By cleaning up accidents quickly and effectively, you prolong the life of your floors!
• Make sure you clean food areas – Our pets are not the neatest when it comes to eating so maintaining a clean food/water area will also help keep the floor clean. Laying down a mat under the food/water, will catch any spills and prevent damage to your floors.

Cleaning Tips

• Floors and How to Keep Clean
• Sweeping or vacuuming weekly will cut down on the amount of accumulated dirt on floors. Automatic vacuums are another great tool to help cut down on the amount of hair/fur on floors.
• Empty your vacuum frequently while vacuuming to maintain suction. Also be sure to check any filters, belts, etc. to insure maximum effectiveness.
• Lint rollers are great for getting hair/fur off furniture!

Octagon Building Care is a leader in commercial cleaning and building solutions for Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas. Follow us on Facebook for more great information.