Effective, Pet-Safe Cleaning Products

We all love our pets, but invariably they land in the doghouse for wreaking havoc on our carpets, couches, and other home surfaces. Dealing with the mess can be tricky; the ASPCA reports that poisoning from household cleaners is one of the top reasons for emergency phone calls from frantic owners. "There are many effective products that clean and remove odors without putting your pet at risk," says Julia Szabo, columnist for Dogster.com and author of Pretty Pet-Friendly (Wiley). Here are great options that get the job done while keeping your animal out of harm's way.
By Cheryl S. Grant

Problem: Urine stain
Product: Get Serious Pet Stain Odor and Pheromone Extractor
Why It Works: Urine stains and odor can be problematic because the smell causes your pet to mark the area again and again. Get Serious stops this by drawing out the pheromones—natural body chemicals produced by the animal—as it removes stains. Add a cup to your laundry to tackle residual pet odors on clothes or bedding.




Problem: Dirt and hair balls
Product: Panasonic vacuum model MCUL915
Why It Works: Removing pet hair from the couch, floor, and carpet can be frustrating. But thanks to the super-suction of this vacuum, which comes with a pet brush, the job just got easier. And if you're in doubt as to whether all the grime is gone, check out the dirt sensor; the light pops on if there's more cleaning to do.

• Available at panasonic.com, $250

Problem: Drool
Product: PawSafe Multi-Surface Cleaner
Why It Works: Spray this on glass, tile, sealed wood, and other water-safe surfaces to remove Fido's spittle. And since it's free of harmful chemicals, have no worries if your pup is prone to pressing his face to the window.

• Available at pawsafecleaners.com, $6

Problem: Dirt and grime
Product: Haan Slim & Light
Why It Works: This 5-pound wonder releases a 212 degrees Fahrenheit steam that lifts ground-in muck and bacteria from floors and carpets. Plus, it uses plain water so it's 100 percent natural.

• Available at haanusa.com, $120

Problem: Vomit
Product: Bissell Pet Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
Why It Works: The brush and foaming action lift vomit from most surfaces, including shaggy carpets and sofas.

• Available at bissell.com, $5

Homemade Pet-Safe Cleaners
Go the DIY route with two of Julia Szabo's favorite recipes.
—Combine 1 quart of white vinegar with 1 tablespoon of whole cloves. Let sit overnight. Use as often as needed for cleaning hard surfaces—cloves act as a natural antibacterial.
—Mix 1 cup white vinegar, 1/2 cup baking soda, and 2 tablespoons of chemical-free dishwashing liquid (such as Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid). This very foamy concoction is great for washing out a litter box, as well as a tub and tile surfaces. Plus, its bleaching qualities whiten gross grout.
Originally published in the May 2011 issue of Family Circle magazine.