Keeping It Clean with Pets: A Realistic Guide for Pet-Loving Homeowners

Let’s face it — life’s just better with pets. Whether it’s the thump of a happy tail greeting you at the door or a sleepy purr on your lap at the end of a long day, our four-legged companions make a house feel like home. But if you’re sharing your space with a furry friend, you also know the not-so-glamorous truth: keeping your home clean can feel like a full-time job.

At Handler Homes, we welcome families of all shapes, sizes and species. So, if you’re juggling the joys of pet ownership with the desire for a tidy, inviting home, we’ve got some down-to-earth advice to help you find that sweet spot between “lived-in” and “fur-covered.”

Keep Shedding in Check with Regular Grooming

You’d be surprised how much fur you can stop at the source. Brushing your pet often, especially during heavy-shedding seasons, cuts down on the loose hair floating onto your floors, clinging to furniture or rolling like tiny tumbleweeds through the hallway. Plus, your pet will love the extra attention.

Make Smart Fabric Choices

Your couch doesn’t have to be a fur magnet. Use washable slipcovers on furniture and pet beds—ones you can toss in with your weekly laundry. It’s a simple swap that keeps things fresh without constant scrubbing or steam cleaning.

Invest in a Pet-Friendly Vacuum and Use It Often

Pet hair has an uncanny ability to find every corner and crevice. A powerful vacuum designed specifically for pet hair is a game-changer. Run it over rugs, furniture and your pet’s favorite hangout spots a few times a week and you’ll stay ahead of the mess.

Embrace the Power of the Lint Roller

You know those moments when you’re heading out the door and realize your black jeans have turned grey thanks to your golden retriever? That’s where lint rollers earn their keep. Keep one in every room or at least near your closet and sofa. They’re small, cheap and weirdly satisfying.

Dirty Paws, Clean Floors

Outdoor pets can unknowingly bring in more than love, such as dirt, pollen and mud. Place a mat by the door and make paw-wiping a quick habit. It’s a small step that saves you from constantly mopping up surprise prints.

Tidy Up the Litter Situation

Cat owners, this one’s for you. Daily scooping might not be glamorous, but it keeps odors in check. Swap out litter regularly and try placing the box in a breezy corner. If aesthetics matter (and we get it—they do), consider stylish furniture pieces that conceal the litter box while keeping it accessible.

Set Gentle Boundaries

Training your pets to stay off furniture or out of certain rooms helps maintain your space and your sanity. It’s not about being strict; it’s about giving everyone their place in the home, pets included.

Keep Mealtime Contained

Feeding time can get…chaotic. Place your pet’s food and water dishes on easy-to-wipe surfaces or a mat that catches crumbs and splashes. It keeps the mess localized and clean-up quick.

A Home Worth Loving—for Everyone

Pet messes are just part of the deal when you live with unconditional love. A bit of shedding and a few paw prints are all part of the beautiful chaos that makes a house feel alive.

And that’s what Handler Homes is all about. We design spaces that aren’t just beautiful—they’re made to be lived in, loved in and yes, occasionally licked by a dog. If you’re dreaming about a home that fits your family, including the furry members, why not start with us?

See how Handler Homes builds homes where your whole family can feel at home, even the ones with wagging tails.