Got Pets? Here’s How to Keep Your Rugs Clean
We love our furry friends—they’re family. But as any pet owner knows, pets and rugs don’t always mix well. From muddy paw prints to shedding fur and the occasional “accident,” pets can quickly turn a beautiful rug into a source of stress. The good news? You don’t have to choose between a clean home and happy pets. With the right approach, you can enjoy both.
In this guide, we’ll explore simple, effective ways to keep your rugs fresh, clean, and odor-free—even with pets in the house. Whether you’re dealing with dog hair, cat dander, or the aftermath of a puppy mishap, we’ve got practical tips to help.
Why Pets Are Tough on Rugs
Before we jump into solutions, it’s important to understand the common ways pets impact your rugs:
• Pet hair and dander: Hair and microscopic skin flakes settle deep into rug fibers, triggering allergies and making rugs feel dirty even when they look clean.
• Stains and accidents: Pet urine, vomit, or drool can leave behind odors and bacteria if not treated properly.
• Paw prints and dirt: Pets track in outdoor debris, including mud, grass, and sand, grinding it into the rug with every step.
• Chewing or scratching: Curious puppies or anxious cats may chew corners, tug at fringes, or scratch fibers.
Now that we’ve identified the challenges, let’s look at what you can do to keep your rugs in top shape—without keeping your pets off them.
Vacuum Frequently
Vacuuming is your first line of defense. While once or twice a week is enough for most households, pet owners should aim for three to four times a week, especially if your pet sheds heavily.
Pro Tips:
• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap allergens.
• Choose a vacuum with strong suction and a rotating brush to lift embedded hair.
• Vacuum both sides of the rug occasionally to remove hair that gets trapped underneath.
Even a quick daily vacuum in high-traffic areas can make a huge difference in cleanliness and air quality.
Spot Clean Accidents Immediately
Accidents happen—even with house-trained pets. The key is to act fast. The longer urine or vomit sits, the more it seeps into the rug’s fibers and backing, creating lasting stains and smells.
Here’s how to clean up pet accidents:
• Blot the area with paper towels—don’t rub.
• Mix a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1) and spray the spot.
• Blot again, then sprinkle baking soda on the damp area.
• Let it sit overnight, then vacuum it up in the morning.
For more stubborn stains or repeated accidents, it’s best to call a professional rug cleaner. Pet urine can damage rug fibers and backing if not removed thoroughly.
Use Pet-Friendly Rug Pads
Rug pads do more than keep rugs in place—they also create a protective barrier between your rug and the floor. Choose a moisture-resistant, non-slip rug pad that can help:
• Absorb minor accidents before they hit your floors.
• Prevent rug bunching (which pets love to play with).
• Extend the life of your rug by reducing wear and tear.
Look for pet-specific rug pads designed to resist odors and provide extra cushioning for your pet to rest on.
Choose Pet-Smart Rugs
If you’re buying a new rug and you’ve got pets, pick one that holds up well in a pet-friendly home. Here’s what to look for:
Best materials:
• Wool: Naturally stain-resistant and durable. It hides dirt well and repels liquids initially.
• Synthetic fibers (like nylon or polypropylene): Budget-friendly and highly resistant to stains and wear.
• Indoor/outdoor rugs: These are rugged, moisture-resistant, and super easy to clean.
Avoid:
• Silk and viscose: Beautiful, but delicate and prone to staining.
• Shag rugs: The long fibers trap dirt, hair, and moisture, making them tough to clean.
Stick with low-pile rugs, which are easier to vacuum and less likely to trap hair or odors.
Bathe and Brush Your Pets Regularly
A clean pet equals a cleaner rug. Regular grooming helps reduce shedding and cuts down on the dirt and oils pets transfer to your rugs.
Tips:
• Brush pets outside to keep loose fur from spreading indoors.
• Wipe paws after walks using a pet-safe paw cloth or mat by the door.
• Consider regular baths or grooming appointments—especially for heavy shedders.
You’ll notice less fur on your floors, cleaner air, and fewer allergens circulating through your home.
Rotate Your Rugs
Rotating your rugs every few months helps distribute wear more evenly. Pets tend to hang out in the same spots—like near windows, couches, or their favorite dog bed. Rotating your rug can prevent one area from becoming overly worn or discolored.
If your rug is in a particularly sunny spot, rotation also helps minimize uneven fading.
Schedule Professional Cleanings
Even with the best at-home care, your rugs need a deep professional clean once or twice a year—especially in a pet-friendly home.
Professional cleaning removes:
• Embedded pet hair
• Dander and allergens
• Odors from pet accidents
• Dirt, bacteria, and mold spores
At The Rugsters, we specialize in deep-cleaning rugs using pet-safe, non-toxic methods that restore your rug’s appearance and remove harmful buildup. If your rug has suffered from pet accidents or lingering smells, don’t wait—some damage becomes permanent if left untreated.
Warning Signs Your Rug Needs Immediate Cleaning
Watch for these red flags:
• Persistent odors that don’t go away with spot cleaning
• Yellow or dark stains from urine
• A “crunchy” or stiff feel in certain areas
• Increased allergy symptoms in the home
• Visible matting or dullness
Ignoring these signs can lead to fiber damage, mold growth, and permanent odor retention—especially in natural fiber rugs like wool.
Professional Cleaning with The Rugsters
At The Rugsters, we understand how much you love your pets—and your rugs. That’s why we offer specialized pet-friendly rug cleaning solutions designed to gently but thoroughly remove:
• Urine and odor buildup
• Pet hair and dander
• Ground-in dirt and allergens
• Bacteria and mold from damp spots
We’re based in Leonia, NJ, and proudly serve homes throughout Bergen County, including Ridgewood, Garfield, Fort Lee, and Englewood.
Whether it’s routine maintenance or stain removal after a messy accident, we treat your rug with the care it deserves—so you and your pets can enjoy a clean, comfortable space.