The winter has finally begun to thaw (knock on wood), and as the snow recedes and the days grow longer, you’ll slowly begin to realize that you haven’t given your home the deep-cleaning it deserves in some time. That is why they call it “spring cleaning” after all.
But if you’ve got a four-legged roommate you should consider whether the cleaning products you intend to use might be harmful to your pup. Even if you keep your cleaning solutions in a safe place, they can still leave a toxic residue or vapors that could injure your dog.
So we’ll start with the basics. Here are a few products to avoid.
Cleaning Products To Avoid
Any cleaning products which contain the following ingredients could be harmful to your dog.
1. Bleach
Think of all-purpose cleaners you’d use in the bathroom. Most rely on bleach to sanitize whatever surface it is used on.
2. Ammonia
This chemical can be found in the multi-purpose cleaners which tend to be used in the kitchen. May also be found in toilet bowl cleaners and oven degreasers, but is primarily found in glass and window cleaners. Is streak-less glass really worth it?
3. Glycol Ethers
Also found in glass cleaner, glycol ethers can also be found in carpet cleaners, and many “green” products. Glycol ethers won’t always be listed as ingredients, so be sure to research the products you buy, or DIY.
4. Phthalates
Not only is it hard to pronounce, but like glycol ethers it’s hard to determine if this is in your cleaning product. However, chances are that if your cleaning product features “fragrance,” then it contains phthalates. Also found in air fresheners.
5. Formaldehyde
You’d be surprised how many household products contain formaldehyde. The reason you’d be surprised is that it’s usually called something else. Check your labels for any of these nicknames for formaldehyde.
6. Perchloroethylene
Found in a variety of products, this chemical will more than likely be in any aerosol cleaners you intend to use.
Cleaning Products To Use
These DIY cleaning products are 3 non-toxic solutions you can use to eliminate stains and odors in your home without putting your pup at risk.
1. Vinegar-Baking Soda Spray
Mix the following into a spray bottle: 2 cups of white vinegar, 2 cups of warm water, and 4 tablespoons of baking soda.
2. Hydrogen-Peroxide & Baking Soda Mix
This solution is intended for scrubbing so mix the following into a bowl: 1 cup of baking soda, 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide, 1 teaspoon of eco-friendly dish liquid.
3. Citrus-Enzyme Cleaner
This one’s little more fun and a lot more natural. Place the following into a sealable container (like a mason jar, etc.): 7 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 ½ cups of lemon and orange peels/scraps, and 1 liter of water. Let sit for 3 months and your all-natural enzyme is ready to go!
Worried that some dangerous products might be in your home?
Signs Your Pup Has Been Exposed
First and foremost, always contact a licensed veterinarian IMMEDIATELY should you have any concerns for your dog’s health. It’s better to be safe than sorry. If you suspect your dog has interacted with any of the above products, the following symptoms could indicate exposure.
1. Coughing, Sneezing, Phlegm
2. Vomiting or Diarrhea
3. Loss of Appetite
4. Lethargy
5. Siezures
Now that you’ve been equipped with knowledge, go equip yourself with dog-safe cleaning products and turn that home upside down until no dust bunny goes unswept!
