9 Products You Need to Pet-Proof Your Home

Pet owners have a few more considerations than everyone else when it comes to renting or buying a home. From finding a pet-friendly place to shopping for a sofa, the entire process isn’t exactly easy—and that doesn’t even include purchasing the right products for pet-proofing your home once you’re settled in. We did the hard work for you and researched everything you need to keep your home as comfortable as possible for both and your best friend. Check out our top picks below, and let us know what your favorite solutions are in the comments!

As a pet owner, you’ll want to stick with low-pile rugs that are easy to clean and will hold up well over time. But if you want to make things as easy as possible, there are now washable rugs out there that can simply be thrown in the washing machine, no spot cleaning required. Ruggable is the most well-known washable rug company out there, with options available on Overstock at a seriously budget-friendly price.

Buy: Ruggable Area Rug, $133.49 from Overstock

Depending on the breed of dog or cat you have, you’re probably going to be experiencing hair everywhere. Keep your floors clear with this handy broom, which works on every type of surface, including carpets, tile, and hardwood. Plus, it has a built-in squeegee edge that wipes away liquid spills, making it one of the most versatile cleaning tools in your arsenal.

Buy: Evrilholder Furemover Broom, $13.45 from Amazon

Here’s the thing: If you have a dog, it’s going to pee inside, definitely more than once. Nature’s Miracle is one of the more popular cleaning brands geared toward pet messes, with super specific products like this Dog Urine Destroyer (there’s a cat version as well). Also check out the Stain & Odor Remover Spray to round out your supplies.

Buy: Nature’s Miracle Dog Urine Destroyer, $9.99 from Amazon

If you let your dog sleep with you, it’s worth it to invest in a mattress protector, just to be safe. This highly-reviewed option is not only waterproof, but it also protects against dust mites, allergens, and bacteria to keep your mattress in pristine condition for years.

Buy: SafeRest Waterproof Mattress Protector, $69.95 $26.95 for Queen

It can’t be overstated how important a good vacuum is for a home with pets. You’ll want to look for a model that’s specifically geared towards pet owners—they’re designed to have powerful suction and come with extra tools for vacuuming floors and furniture. Many of them also have filtration systems to clean the air as you go.

Buy: Shark Rotator Lift-Away TruePet Vacuum, $272.99 from Amazon

Cats are adorable companions, but they will destroy your furniture if you’re not careful. Make sure you have plenty of scratching posts around your home to discourage them from going after your sofa, and as an extra precaution you can grab a few of these furniture scratch guards. They aren’t the most attractive solution, but they do make a difference if you’re struggling.

Buy: In Hand Furniture Scratch Guards (pack of 6), $18.99 from Amazon

Dryer balls are an eco-friendly alternative to dryer sheets, so we were pretty thrilled to discover these dryer balls that are specifically made for pet hair removal. Made of plastic and nylon, these reusable balls catch hair and debris that get stuck on your clothes—just throw a couple in with your wet laundry and let them do their thing.

Buy: Frienda Pet Hair Remover Dryer Balls (pack of 24), $14.99 from Amazon

Have a pet who loves to chew on just about anything? Look into cord protectors, which wrap around cords up to ten feet long and act as a barrier between your pet and the cable. Simple, yet effective.

Buy: Pet Cords Cord Protector, $15.99 from Amazon

This multifunctional storage cabinet is functional and stylish. If you have a dog who is prone to eating your shoes, a normal open shoe rack might not be the storage solution for you. Instead, get this furniture piece, which hides away your shoes and actually looks good in your entryway. It’s a win-win.

Buy: Yaheetech Shoe Storage Cabinet, $104.99 from Amazon