Upholstery Care Tips for Pet Owners

Our dogs, cats, and other pets bring joy, comfort, and companionship into our homes, but they can also bring muddy paws, fur, and the occasional “accident” onto our furniture. With the right care, you can keep your upholstery looking good for longer, even in a pet-friendly household.

Below, we’ve put together some practical, DIY upholstery care tips for pet owners and advice for when to call in the professionals for a deeper clean.

Why Upholstery Needs Special Attention in Pet-Friendly Homes

Pets naturally shed fur, produce oils, and occasionally have accidents. Over time, these can cause:

• Stains and odours
• Fabric wear and tear
• Build-up of allergens and bacteria
• Reduced furniture lifespan

Regular cleaning and preventative care can significantly reduce these effects.

Choose Pet-Friendly Fabrics from the Start

If you’re buying new furniture, consider fabrics that are more resistant to pet wear and tear:

• Microfibre or tightly woven fabrics: Easier to clean and less likely to snag.
• Leather or faux leather: Wipes clean easily, though it can scratch.

Pet-Friendly Furniture Protection Tips

Investing in protective products can save your upholstery in the long run.

Here’s what to use:

• Washable slipcovers: Easy to remove and clean regularly.
• Furniture throws or blankets: Adding a barrier to your pet’s favourite spot can help reduce wear and staining.
• Pet deterrent sprays: Dissuade pets from jumping on furniture.

Daily and Weekly Tips for Cleaner Upholstery

Keeping on top of upholstery care doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Here are some easy habits to adopt:

Daily:

• Use lint rollers or handheld vacuums to remove pet fur from couches and chairs.
• Wipe paws before pets come inside to prevent dirt from settling on furniture.

Weekly:

• Vacuum thoroughly with an upholstery attachment to remove pet hair, dander, and crumbs.
• Flip or rotate cushions to promote even wear.
• Brush and groom your pets regularly to reduce shedding and minimise the dirt transferred onto your furniture.

How to Deal with Pet Stains and Accidents

Quick response is key:

• Blot, don’t scrub: Use a clean towel to absorb moisture from accidents as soon as possible.
• Apply a mild cleaning solution: Mix water with a few drops of wool detergent or white vinegar. Test on an inconspicuous area first.
• Use enzyme-based cleaners: These break down proteins in pet urine and help eliminate odours.

For stubborn smells from urine or vomit, you may need more than surface cleaning. That’s where JAE’s professional odour treatment can help.

Why Professional Upholstery Cleaning Matters

Even with regular upkeep, pet homes benefit from periodic deep cleaning. JAE’s professional upholstery cleaning can:

• Clean away embedded dirt, pet hair, and allergens
• Treat persistent stains and pet odours
• Extend the life of your furniture
• Refresh and sanitise all types of fabric
• Apply a fabric protector treatment

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Our team uses advanced methods, including hot water extraction and specialised stain treatments, to restore your upholstery safely and effectively. At JAE, we also offer stain, fabric protection and odour treatment services, so we can address a wide range of pet-related issues in one visit.

If your upholstery needs a fresh start, contact your local JAE team for expert care that’s safe for both pets and people.

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FAQs

Q: How often should I have my upholstery professionally cleaned if I have pets?
A: For pet owners, a professional clean every 6–12 months can help keep your furniture looking fresh and reduce allergens. More frequent cleaning may be needed if your pet sheds heavily, you have multiple pets, there are recurring stains or odours or household members have allergies.

‍Q: Can professional upholstery cleaning remove pet odours?‍A: Professional cleans offer odour treatment services designed to target the source of smells such as urine, vomit, and other accidents. While we can often remediate odours, the results can vary depending on factors like the fabric type and how long the odour has been present. Our technicians will assess your upholstery and recommend the best possible approach.