Pets add a special kind of joy to our lives. They greet us at the door after a long day and comfort us when we’re feeling down. While it’s true that pets bring us happiness most of the time, there are moments when they can feel like pests. Think of the time your cat clawed their way up your drapes or your dog made a few scratches on your leather recliner. You may have started feeling like you have to limit the decor you include in your home to accommodate your pet, but we’re here to tell you that’s not true! Owning a pet doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on home decor. Follow these tips to get the best of both worlds:
Skip the wall-to-wall carpeting. Instead, accessorize with throw rugs. Carpet tends to trap pet hair and absorb any odors our pets release. To lessen the headache associated with these issues, opt for tile, vinyl, or hardwood flooring. Dress the space up with accessories like patterned throw pillows, drapes, and wall art. If you can’t live without carpet, choose one with a low pile. It’ll be easier to clean in the event of an accident! Additionally, choose carpet and upholstery that matches the color of your pet’s fur. The hair they leave behind won’t be as visible.
Avoid painting your walls white. It’s a bad idea aesthetically and practically for pet owners, particularly dog owners. White walls don’t last long, so they suggest opting for richer shades of neutrals like beige and tan. Regardless of how often they’re groomed, pets can leave smears and smudges on walls and door jambs. To help prevent this problem, the Lexington, MA, house painters recommend using semi-gloss wall paint. They’re easier to clean than flat finishes and the slight sheen can help cover any prior wall blemishes.
Make your home work for your pet. Convert an area of your home that doesn’t get much use into an area for your pets. If you have a spare bedroom that has become a second storage closet, create a play area for your cat or dog that houses all of their toys and playthings. If you have unused space in your laundry room, basement, or kitchen, convert part of that space into a tiled mudroom. You’ll have a place to remove dirt and dust from your dogs once they’re ready to come in from the backyard. Of course, you can also use this space to store wet shoes, raincoats, and umbrellas when the weather calls for them.
Buy furniture with stain-resistant fabrics. Furnishings cloaked in silk, chintz, or velvet are magnets for pet hair. Avoid these options and instead opt for leather or ultra suede. Leather is a durable fabric that’s easy to clean, but it will scratch. Ultra suede is a machine-washable microfiber that’s ideal for pet owners. It’s smooth like real suede but more durable and comfortable to sit on any time of year.
Bathe and groom your pet regularly. A clean pet translates to a clean house. You’ll lessen the headache of cleaning by reducing the amount of hair your pet has. Make a habit of brushing or bathing your pet to remove loose hair, dirt, and other debris. After all, it’s much easier to clean your pup than it is to clean your upholstery!
You don’t have to sacrifice style to live in harmony with your pet. For more interior design tips, contact Bohnne Jones, an interior decorator in Brentwood, TN.