Tips for safer cleaning

By Wendy Wilson

We love our dogs, but they sure can make a mess! They track mud and dirt into the house, they topple their food and water bowls, they leave behind that distinct doggy odor, and they have accidents — all of which require the right clean-up products.

Commercial over-the-counter cleaners, when used as directed on the label’s instructions, are safe to use around your four-legged family member, says Tina Wismer, DVM, medical director at the ASPCA’s animal poison control center in New York, N.Y.

“Dilution is very important,” she continues. “This is not a situation where a little is good and a lot is better. And we want to keep our animals out of that area until the products are dry. For instance, when you wash your floors, keep your pet out of the kitchen until the floors are dry. Then it’s OK for them to come back into the area.”

When used correctly, the residue left behind is minimal, Dr. Wismer adds. “But if owners are worried about residues, they can certainly clean them off with just plain water afterwards.”

Another option: Try some safer alternatives.

Mother Nature has provided all-natural solutions that do the job in a way that’s safer for your family and pets. Below, we’ve included several recipes for cleaning products that use simple ingredients from your pantry, like baking soda, vinegar and lemon juice.

Baking soda: An odor absorber and more

Known for its odor-absorbing and mild abrasive qualities, plain-old baking soda is a must-have all-natural cleaning product for your home. Dry, it safely absorbs all kinds of pet odors. You can sprinkle some on you carpet, let it sit for a half hour and vacuum it up. When mixed with equal amounts of warm water and salt, it becomes a thick paste that will gently scrub dog dishes, crusty countertops and stained sinks. And the best part: It costs just pennies.

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Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

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Combine the ingredients and form a thick paste. Rub it into the stain using a dry cloth. Let it set for two days, then vacuum.

Please note that lemon juice or vinegar should not be used on marble, travertine or limestone tabletops, counters or floors, as the acid may damage the surface. In addition, it’s a good idea to check with your flooring or countertop manufacturer and/or test the products on the surface before using to ensure resiliency and colorfastness.

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When using household cleaners, read the instructions carefully before use, and be sure to store them safely away from curious pups. If you suspect your pet has ingested a possibly toxic substance, call your veterinarian or the ASCPA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

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