We're a nation of pet lovers who adore and dote on our animals, but with furry friends comes a lot of clean-up and you'll need many innovative ways to keep your home clean.
34% of UK households own a dog, and 28% own a cat, but it doesn't matter which animal you prefer - you'll need to know how to clean up after them, as things can get seriously messy, and fast.
Cleaning experts at Gtech have shared ways that you can get carpets clean again after they've made a mess on your pride and joy, meaning you don't have to unnecessarily replace anything, keeping your home guest-ready at all times.
As you'll know, dogs and cats shed a lot in certain seasons, but it's still a year-round struggle for owners to stay on top of - especially if your pet has long fur.
GTech said consistency is key when it comes to getting rid of pet hair, and you must vacuum "frequently and thoroughly" on carpets, sofas, and wooden floors.
And whilst this may seem straightforward, when it comes to cleaning pet stains, it's a little bit more difficult.
Experts said: "From muddy paw prints to puppy pee puddles, stains are a common enemy for pet owners, especially those with either very young or elderly animals. Acting fast is essential when removing pet stains, and you should start cleaning as soon as you spot them.
"For liquid stains, such as urine, start by spraying the stain with cold water and then absorbing the liquid with paper towels or a cloth. Then, sprinkle the affected area with bicarbonate of soda, leaving for at least an hour."
Bicarbonate of soda can be bought for £1.05 in Ocado.
"Once it's soaked in, vacuum the carpet, and repeat until the stain and odours have gone", experts shared. "Give the area an additional few rounds of spot cleaning if necessary but try not to rub your carpet fibres too much as this could damage the finish.
"If you are tackling mud, then let the stain dry first and then vacuum up as much of it as possible. If there is still some mud remaining, then take a blunt knife to scrape away the excess.
"Now you can follow the same process as you would with a liquid stain, using bicarbonate of soda and spot cleaning to freshen up your carpet.
"For particularly tough stains, consider using cleaning agents, such as white vinegar or a carpet cleaner for serious stains. Just ensure that you use an agent that is suitable for your carpet, based on its instructions or maintenance guide."
Do you have any cleaning tips? Email:danielle.wroe@reachplc.com
