Pet-Safe Cleaning Products: Keep Your Home Clean & Pet Safe

Keep Your Home Clean & Pet Safe

Maintaining a clean home is essential for pet owners, but most of the traditional cleaning products are toxic to our furry friends. Pets are naturally curious and spend a lot of time on the floor—sniffing, licking, and rolling around—coming into direct contact with harsh chemical residue left behind after cleaning. Many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to pets, causing anything from mild irritation to serious health issues.

The good news? There are safer alternatives that keep your home clean AND pet-friendly. Here's how to make smarter choices and protect your pets.

Why Choose Pet-Safe Cleaning Products?

Exposure to harsh chemicals can lead to a variety of health issues in pets, including respiratory problems, digestive upset, and skin irritations. By switching to pet-safe cleaning products, you reduce these risks while maintaining a clean and healthy living space.

Common Harmful Ingredients to Avoid:

• Ammonia: Common in window cleaners and known to irritate the respiratory system and likely to contain PFAS (forever chemicals).
• Chlorine (Bleach): Found in disinfectants and toilet bowl cleaners; highly toxic if inhaled or ingested.
• Phthalates: Used in fragranced products and known to disrupt hormones.
• Phenols: Found in disinfectant wipes and sprays; particularly toxic to cats and harmful to dogs.

Top Pet-Safe Cleaning Solutions

1. Aqueous Ozone: The Gold Standard in Pet-Safe Cleaning

Aqueous ozone is a powerful cleaning solution created by infusing ozone gas into cold tap water. It safely cleans, sanitizes, and deodorizes without the use of harmful chemicals. Best of all, it leaves no toxic residue—making it safe for your pets and the environment.

Why Choose Aqueous Ozone?

• Natural and Chemical-Free: No synthetic additives or fragrances.
• Powerful Yet Safe: Kills germs and neutralizes odors faster and more effectively than harsh chemical cleaners. Look at the back of the bottle on how long you need to have the chemical cleaner sit on the surface for it to be effective. Ozone only takes seconds to kill all bacteria, viruses and mold!
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces your carbon footprint by replacing traditional cleaning products.

CleanCore Solutions offers patented technology that generates aqueous ozone on-demand, allowing you to use it throughout your home for everything from cleaning floors to countertops. If you want to learn more about Ozone Cleaning email Michael Webb at [email protected] or message him at (352) 225-1733.

 
2. Plant-Based Cleaners

Plant-based cleaners are an excellent alternative for those who prefer ready-made solutions. These cleaners are biodegradable, non-toxic, and free from harmful chemicals.

Recommended Brand:

• Seventh Generation Free & Clear: Known for its non-toxic, fragrance-free formula.
   
  3. DIY Pet-Safe Cleaning Recipes

Sometimes, the best solutions come from ingredients you already have at home. Here are a few easy DIY cleaning recipes:

All-Purpose Cleaner:

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• Optional: 5 drops lavender or peppermint essential oil (pet-safe)
  Directions: Mix in a spray bottle and use for countertops, floors, and windows.

Carpet Deodorizer:

• 1 cup baking soda
• Optional: 5 drops pet-safe essential oil
  Directions: Sprinkle over carpets, let sit for 10–15 minutes, and vacuum thoroughly.

Tips for Cleaning Safely Around Pets

Even when using pet-safe products, it’s essential to take precautions while cleaning:

• Keep Pets Away: Allow surfaces to dry before letting your pet back into the area.
• Ventilate: Ensure proper airflow when cleaning to disperse any fumes.
• Rinse Thoroughly: When cleaning pet bowls, toys, or litter boxes, rinse thoroughly to remove all residue.
• Check Labels: Always look for products labeled non-toxic, biodegradable, and free from harsh chemicals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning with Pets at Home

Even when you’re committed to using pet-safe products, it’s easy to make mistakes without realizing it. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Assuming "Natural" Means Safe: Just because a product is labeled "natural" or "green" doesn’t mean it’s pet-safe. Always read the label carefully. Ingredients like phenols, certain essential oils, and strong fragrances can still be harmful to pets.

Overusing Essential Oils: While essential oils might smell great to us, not all of them are safe for pets. Oils like tea tree, citrus, pine, and eucalyptus can be toxic, especially to cats and small dogs. Stick to pet-safe options like lavender and chamomile, and always use them sparingly.

Using Strongly Scented Products: Pets have a much stronger sense of smell than we do. Heavily scented cleaning products can irritate their respiratory system and overwhelm them. Opt for fragrance-free or lightly scented cleaners.

A Safer, Cleaner Home for You and Your Pets

By choosing pet-safe cleaning products like aqueous ozone and plant-based alternatives, you can maintain a fresh, clean home without compromising your pet’s health. Whether it’s cleaning your floors, freshening your carpets, or tackling stubborn stains, there are plenty of ways to keep your space spotless and pet-friendly.

I’m always mindful of what Luciano is exposed to at home. Now, I use ozone to clean almost everything—our floors, countertops, even our fruits and veggies. Switching to ozone cleaning gave me peace of mind knowing I’ve eliminated harsh chemicals from our home. It’s a simple choice that keeps our living space healthy for both Luciano and us.

Want more tips on creating a safe environment for your pet? Follow us at Paws on Planes Inc. on Instagram and Facebook for expert advice on pet care, travel, and creating a healthy home for you and your furry companion.

Got questions? I’ve got answers.
If something’s unclear or you’re feeling stuck, shoot me a message. I’m always happy to chat and help however I can!