Pets can bring a lot of joy to our lives. In fact, pets are currently bringing joy to roughly 67% of U.S. households (85 million families), according to the 2019-2020 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA). And 95% of those households consider their pet to be a member of the family.

With statistics like that, it’s safe to say that we love our pets. Still, our homes might not be quite the haven they need to feel comfortable. If we look at our pets like family, shouldn’t we keep their needs in mind when we decorate our homes? In some ways, it’s likely that you already do. But are you keeping yourself in mind too? In other words, are you sacrificing the style or comfort you crave all because you’re worried about how the nice things you want can stand up to your furry friend?

The good news is that you can have an incredibly stylish home that is also incredibly pet-friendly! The key is choosing the right materials and accommodating your animals’ needs. With a little effort, you can enjoy your home just as much as they can. Below are some tips to help you get started.

1. Keep your pet groomed.

A good way to keep your home clean longer is to keep your four-legged friends bathed and groomed regularly. While good grooming offers multiple benefits, a big one is that it minimizes loose hairs, which can end up on furniture, pillows, and curtains. Additionally, a nail trim will help keep your things, such as flooring and upholstery from getting scratched up.

Starting with something as simple as this is an easy way to maintain a cleaner and more attractive home. Think of it this way: pets are usually much easier and more fun to clean than upholstery anyway! Plus, the rugs and furniture around your home will last a lot longer if they don’t have to be cleaned as often.

2. Use stain-resistant and washable fabrics.

While luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, mohair, corduroy, velour, and chenille are lovely, they can easily attract animal hair. With that said, there’s no need to avoid using them altogether, though. Simply save those richer fabrics for more formal rooms and opt for fabrics like cotton, cotton blends, leather, microfiber fabrics, or performance fabrics for the portions of the house that will have more activity. These are durable and easy to clean, which is exactly what you want if you have pets in your home. And, with the way they are designed today, they actually look good, too! Your local fabric supplier will be able to help you choose just what you need to keep up with your furry friends.

When it comes to your bed, cover your mattress with a protector pad, use cotton sheets, and consider getting a duvet cover, if your pet sleeps with you. Having the ability to wash all of your bedding quickly at home will be a lifesaver.

It’s a good idea to choose interior fabrics that can handle the hair and are easy to clean. Here are some options you may want to consider:

Leather: Leather is durable and easy to clean. It doesn’t attract pet hair, so it won’t stick to it. However, it can be expensive and may not be the most comfortable option.
Microfiber: Microfiber is a synthetic material that is soft and durable. It is easy to clean and does not attract pet hair. It is also more affordable than leather.
Canvas: Canvas is a sturdy material that is easy to clean and can withstand pet hair. It is also an affordable option.
Denim: Denim is a durable material that can handle pet hair. It is also easy to clean and can be a stylish option.
Crypton: Crypton is a synthetic material that is stain-resistant, moisture-resistant, and odor-resistant. It can handle pet hair and is easy to clean.
Wool: Wool is a natural material that is durable and can handle pet hair. It is also a good insulator, so it can help regulate temperature in your home.

Keep in mind that even with the right fabric, it’s still important to vacuum and clean regularly to keep pet hair and dander under control.

3. Avoid carpet if possible.

If you already have carpet, you’re probably already used to cleaning it frequently. Carpet is like a sponge soaking up stains, absorbing odors, and trapping pet hair, so if you don’t have it, lean toward painted concrete, terrazzo, brick, tile, or wood flooring like sealed hardwood or synthetic woods, which are durable and less expensive than hardwood. If you still prefer carpet, a low pile version will be easier to keep clean. Layering an area rug on top of the carpet can also really help. Not only are area rugs beautiful to look at, but they are also much easier to clean than an entire roomful of carpet.

4. Keep your pet’s lifestyle in mind.

If your pet goes outside frequently, consider having an area near the door designated for them. Have shelving or a cabinet for their leash, food, and towels to wipe them down before they enter the house. If you crate your animal during the day, consider camouflaging a crate within a side table or chest at the end of your bed. Click here to check out some of the pet projects that are easy and creative.

Is it time to make some updates to your home that will add a bit more zest to your and your pet’s abode? If so, come in to see us at Cutting Corners to see the latest pet-friendly fabrics. Not only will their durability keep up with your pet, but their beauty will also appeal to your sense of style.