Pet owners urged to adopt regular cleaning routines for household health

Experts recommend a four‑step cleaning regimen for homes with pets: regular grooming to reduce shedding, HEPA‑vacuuming to capture fine allergens, enzymatic cleaners for accidents, and weekly washing of pet bedding. These habits help keep odors down and limit allergen exposure.

Veterinary professionals stress the importance of cleaning pet items. Jennifer Bruns, a veterinary epidemiologist at PetSmart, notes that “cleaning is an important part of creating a healthy environment for both people and pets.” Rebecca Greenstein, veterinary medical adviser at Rover, advises that food and water bowls should be cleaned daily to prevent bacterial growth and gastrointestinal upset. Ronit Berdugo of Synergy Labs adds that pet food storage containers should be washed monthly to avoid parasites, dust mites and mold. Regular cleaning of pet beds, crates and other accessories further reduces the risk of skin irritation and infection.

Following these practices—daily bowl cleaning, monthly container washing, and routine laundering of bedding and crate interiors—helps maintain a healthier home for both pets and their owners.