1. All-Purpose Vinegar Spray
White vinegar is a miracle worker when it comes to cleaning. It’s naturally antibacterial and antifungal, which means it helps kill germs while being completely safe for pets. To make this all-purpose spray, mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle. You can also add a few drops of lemon juice for extra cleaning power and a fresh scent.
Use this spray on countertops, floors, pet bowls, and even toys—just avoid using it on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite, as vinegar can erode the finish. Vinegar is great at cutting through grime and neutralizing odors, including pet accidents. Some pets might not love the smell at first, but it fades quickly, leaving behind a clean, chemical-free space. No harsh fumes, no toxic residues—just simple, effective cleaning!
2. Baking Soda Carpet Refresher
If your carpets have absorbed some unpleasant pet smells, baking soda is the solution. It’s a natural deodorizer, meaning it absorbs and eliminates odors instead of just covering them up. To make a DIY carpet refresher, mix one cup of baking soda with 10-15 drops of pet-safe essential oils, like lavender or chamomile. Sprinkle the mixture over your carpet and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before vacuuming.
This method is perfect for pet owners because it lifts dirt, removes odors, and leaves your home smelling fresh without harmful chemicals. Plus, baking soda is completely non-toxic, so if your pet rolls around or sniffs the carpet afterward, there’s no need to worry. For an extra cleaning boost, sprinkle some on pet beds, let it sit, and vacuum it up—your pet will thank you for the fresh sleeping spot!
3. Pet-Friendly Floor Cleaner
Mopping your floors shouldn’t come with a side of worry about your pet licking up harsh chemicals. Instead, try a DIY pet-safe floor cleaner using one gallon of warm water, ½ cup of white vinegar, and a few drops of castile soap. This solution will cut through dirt and grime while keeping your floors safe for paws.
For hardwood or laminate, swap vinegar for lemon juice to avoid dulling the finish. If your pet has a habit of licking the floor or lying down immediately after cleaning, this solution ensures they won’t be exposed to harmful residues. And the best part? It works on all surfaces, including tile, vinyl, and sealed wood, so you don’t need multiple cleaning products cluttering your cabinets.
4. DIY Pet Stain Remover
Accidents happen, but they don’t have to leave a lasting mark—or a lasting odor! A simple, effective pet stain remover can be made using two cups of hydrogen peroxide, two tablespoons of baking soda, and a few drops of dish soap. Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before applying it to the stain.
Let the mixture sit for five to ten minutes, then blot with a clean cloth until the stain is gone. Hydrogen peroxide lifts stains while neutralizing bacteria, and baking soda absorbs odors so your pet isn’t tempted to revisit the same spot. Unlike commercial stain removers, this solution is free from ammonia and bleach, which can be irritating to pets. Your carpets and furniture will thank you!
5. Natural Air Freshener Spray
Store-bought air fresheners are packed with artificial fragrances and chemicals that can be harmful to pets. Instead, create a natural, pet-safe air freshener using one cup of water, one tablespoon of baking soda, and 10 drops of a pet-safe essential oil (like chamomile, cedarwood, or frankincense). Mix in a spray bottle and shake well before each use.
This DIY spray eliminates pet odors without the overpowering, artificial smell of commercial sprays. You can use it on pet bedding, furniture, and even in the air to refresh any room. Plus, since it doesn’t contain alcohol or aerosols, it’s safe even if your pet licks or inhales it. A fresh home without the hidden dangers—what’s not to love?
6. DIY Pet-Safe Glass Cleaner
Traditional glass cleaners often contain ammonia and other harsh chemicals, which can be harmful to pets if they lick windows or glass surfaces. A simple, non-toxic alternative is one part distilled white vinegar and one part water. For extra streak-free shine, add a teaspoon of cornstarch or rubbing alcohol to the mix.
Spray it on windows, mirrors, glass tables, and even sliding doors where pets leave nose prints. Wipe with a microfiber cloth for a sparkling clean finish. This solution removes smudges and grime without exposing your furry friends to dangerous fumes. Bonus tip: It also works great on stainless steel appliances!
Click here for more stories like this
7. Coconut Oil Furniture Polish
If your wood furniture is looking a little dull, skip the commercial polishes that contain pet-toxic ingredients like silicone and artificial scents. Instead, use a dab of coconut oil on a microfiber cloth and buff it into wooden surfaces. Coconut oil moisturizes and protects wood while leaving behind a natural shine.
Not only does it make your furniture look great, but it also creates a barrier against dust and pet hair. If your pet happens to lick the surface, there’s no harm—coconut oil is even beneficial for their skin and coat. Plus, it has a natural, light fragrance that freshens up your home without artificial chemicals.
8. Lemon and Baking Soda Scrub
For tough stains on bathtubs, sinks, or pet bowls, a lemon and baking soda scrub works wonders. Simply cut a lemon in half, dip it in baking soda, and scrub the surface. The natural acidity of the lemon breaks down grime, while the baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive that lifts stains without scratching.
This method is completely pet-safe, unlike commercial scrubbing powders that often contain harsh chemicals. It’s especially useful for getting rid of pet food residue in bowls or cleaning up muddy paw prints in the bathtub. Plus, the fresh lemon scent makes everything smell clean without artificial fragrances that can irritate pets.
9. DIY Pet-Safe Laundry Detergent
Pets love snuggling in blankets and sleeping on soft cushions, but many laundry detergents contain dyes and fragrances that can irritate their skin. To make a pet-safe detergent, mix one cup of washing soda, one cup of baking soda, ½ cup of castile soap, and a few drops of pet-safe essential oil. Store it in a jar and use two tablespoons per load.
This homemade detergent removes pet hair, eliminates odors, and cleans effectively without harsh chemicals. It’s perfect for washing pet beds, blankets, and even your clothes if you cuddle with your furry friend a lot. Bonus: It’s also a great eco-friendly alternative to store-bought detergent!
10. Apple Cider Vinegar Flea Spray
Fleas are a pet owner’s nightmare, but you don’t need chemical-laden sprays to keep them at bay. A simple flea-repelling spray can be made using equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Spray it lightly on your pet’s bedding, collars, or even directly on their fur (avoiding the eyes and ears).
Apple cider vinegar helps balance pH levels on your pet’s skin, making it less attractive to fleas. It also works as a natural deodorizer, keeping your pet smelling fresh without synthetic perfumes. While it won’t kill fleas, it’s a great preventative measure—especially during flea season!
11. Coconut Oil Paw Balm
Pets’ paws go through a lot—hot pavement, cold weather, and rough surfaces can leave them dry and cracked. Instead of using store-bought balms with unpronounceable ingredients, make your own with coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax. Melt them together, let the mixture cool, and apply it to your pet’s paws as needed.
This DIY balm moisturizes, heals, and protects delicate paw pads. Since all ingredients are safe if licked, you don’t have to worry about your pet ingesting anything harmful. It’s also great for dry noses, itchy skin, and even minor cuts!
12. DIY Pet-Safe Toilet Bowl Cleaner
If your pet has a habit of drinking from the toilet, you’ll want to make sure whatever you’re using to clean it is non-toxic. A simple, pet-safe toilet cleaner consists of ½ cup of baking soda, ½ cup of vinegar, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Pour the mixture into the toilet, let it fizz for a few minutes, and scrub as usual.
This method cleans effectively without chlorine, bleach, or harsh acids. Plus, it keeps your bathroom smelling fresh without artificial deodorizers. And if your pet sneaks a sip from the bowl, there’s no need for a panicked vet visit!
13. Castile Soap Dish Cleaner
If you’re washing pet food and water bowls, you want something gentle yet effective. Regular dish soaps often contain harsh surfactants and artificial fragrances, which can leave behind residues that pets ingest. Instead, use one tablespoon of castile soap mixed with warm water to clean pet bowls, toys, and feeding mats.
Castile soap is made from natural oils, so it cuts through grease and grime without leaving toxic residues. It’s gentle on hands, safe for pets, and even biodegradable, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious pet owners. Plus, it’s great for cleaning pet toys that always seem to end up in their mouths!
