23 Essential DIY Cleaning Recipes for Dog Owners | Floors, Toys, Stains & More
Dog owners understand the love and joy our furry companions bring us. Keeping our homes clean and fresh is essential for both our own well-being and the comfort of our pets. However, traditional cleaning products can be surprisingly toxic to dogs. It's time to adopt eco-friendly cleaning methods and DIY solutions that are safe for pets and kinder to our planet.
1. DIY Pet-Safe All-Purpose Spray Cleaner
Banish grime and odors with this multipurpose cleaner that's gentle enough for homes with furry companions.
Ingredients:
1 cup white distilled vinegar
1 cup water
10-15 drops of pet-safe essential oil (optional, like lemon or lavender)
Instructions:
Combine vinegar and water in the spray bottle.
Add essential oils if desired, and shake well.
Uses:
Perfect for cleaning countertops, appliances, bathroom fixtures, and other non-porous surfaces.
Additional Notes:
For extra-stubborn stains, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping.
2. DIY Natural Carpet Deodorizer
Keep carpets fresh and banish pet odors with this simple homemade deodorizer.
Ingredients:
1 cup baking soda
10-15 drops pet-safe essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
In a small bowl, combine the baking soda and essential oils, if using.
Sprinkle the mixture liberally over your carpet.
Let sit for at least 15 minutes, or ideally overnight.
Vacuum thoroughly.
Uses:
Ideal for deodorizing carpets and rugs.
3. DIY Pet Bed Freshener
Keep your pet's bed smelling fresh and clean without any harsh chemicals.
Ingredients:
½ cup baking soda
½ cup white distilled vinegar
Instructions:
Remove any washable covers from the bed and launder them separately.
Combine baking soda and vinegar in the spray bottle. The mixture will fizz, so do this slowly to avoid overflow.
Once fizzing subsides, mist the pet bed lightly with the solution.
Allow the bed to air dry completely before letting your pet use it.
Uses:
Freshening pet beds and soft pet carriers.
Additional Notes:
For stubborn odors, sprinkle baking soda directly on the bed and let it sit for several hours before vacuuming.
4. DIY Pet-Safe Toy Cleaner
Eliminate bacteria and keep your pet's toys safe with this gentle cleaner.
Ingredients:
Warm water
White distilled vinegar
Sink or large container
Instructions:
Fill the sink or container with warm water and add a splash of vinegar.
Soak hard plastic toys for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse toys thoroughly with clean water and let air dry.
Uses:
Cleaning hard plastic pet toys. For plush toys, follow the care instructions on the tag.
Additional Notes:
For an extra boost, add a few drops of natural dish soap to the mixture.
5. DIY Pet-Safe Stain & Odor Remover
Accidents happen! Tackle tough pet stains and lingering odors with this natural cleaner.
Ingredients:
16 ounces hydrogen peroxide (3%)
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 teaspoon natural dish soap
Instructions:
In the spray bottle, combine hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap.
Gently swirl to mix (avoid vigorous shaking).
Blot any excess liquid from a fresh stain.
Spray the affected area liberally with the solution.
Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Blot the area dry with a clean cloth.
Uses:
Removing pet urine, vomit, and other organic stains on carpets, fabrics, and some hard surfaces.
Additional Notes:
Always test on an inconspicuous area first. For deep-set stains, repeat the process.
6. DIY Furry Friend Freshening Spritz
This gentle spritz freshens your pet's coat in between baths, without drying their skin.
Ingredients:
1 cup distilled water
1 tablespoon witch hazel
2-3 drops pet-safe essential oil (optional, like lavender or cedarwood)
Instructions:
Combine distilled water and witch hazel in the spray bottle.
Add essential oils if desired, and shake well.
Lightly mist your pet's fur, avoiding their face and eyes.
Brush or massage through to distribute.
Freshening your pet's coat between baths.
Additional Notes:
Choose essential oils known for being gentle and safe for dogs. Always research or consult your vet about pet-safe essential oils.
7. DIY Pet Food and Water Bowl Cleaner
Keep your pet's bowls clean and free from bacteria with this easy-to-make scrubbing paste.
Ingredients:
Baking soda
Water
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix enough baking soda with a splash of water to form a thick paste.
Use a damp cloth or sponge to apply the paste to your pet's bowls, scrubbing gently to remove food residue or build-up.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and air dry.
Uses:
Cleaning and sanitizing stainless steel, ceramic, or glass pet food and water bowls.
Additional Notes:
For stubborn grime, soak the bowls in a warm water and vinegar solution before applying the baking soda paste.
8. DIY Natural Window Cleaner
Get sparkling windows without the harsh chemicals found in commercial cleaners.
Ingredients:
1 part white vinegar
4 parts water
Microfiber cloth
Instructions
Combine the vinegar and water in the spray bottle.
Spray generously onto windows or mirrors.
Wipe the surface with a dry microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
Uses:
Perfect for cleaning windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces.
Additional Notes:
For tough grime, let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping.
9. DIY Stainless Steel Polish
Keep your stainless steel appliances looking their best and protect them from greasy paw prints.
Ingredients:
Olive oil
Soft cloth
Instructions:
Place a small amount of olive oil on a soft, clean cloth.
Rub the cloth in a circular motion on the stainless steel surface, following the direction of the grain.
Buff with a clean, dry portion of the cloth until streaks disappear.
Uses:
Polishing and protecting stainless steel appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and pet food containers.
Additional Notes:
A little olive oil goes a long way. Avoid using too much to prevent a greasy residue.
10. DIY Pet-Safe Floor Cleaner
This gentle, natural cleaner effectively cleans sealed floors without leaving behind harmful residues for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
½ cup white vinegar
1 gallon of warm water
2-3 tablespoons natural dish soap (optional, for extra cleaning power)
Large bucket
Instructions:
Combine the vinegar and warm water in the bucket.
If desired, add the natural dish soap.
Mop your floors as usual. No rinsing is required.
Uses:
Safe for cleaning most sealed floors, like tile, linoleum, and hardwood.
Additional Notes:
For a pleasant scent, add a few drops of your favorite pet-safe essential oil.
11. DIY Natural Drain Deodorizer
Keep drains smelling fresh and prevent clogs with this simple, fizzy solution.
Ingredients:
1 cup baking soda
1 cup white vinegar
Hot water
Instructions:
Pour the baking soda down the drain.
Slowly pour the vinegar down after the baking soda. Expect some fizzing!
Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes.
Flush the drain with hot water.
Uses:
Deodorizing kitchen or bathroom drains and reducing the chances of clogs.
Additional Notes:
Repeat this process monthly for optimal freshness and drain maintenance.
12. DIY Pet-Safe Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Ditch the harsh chemicals and use natural ingredients to keep your toilet bowl clean.
Ingredients:
1 cup baking soda
¼ cup white vinegar
Toilet brush
Instructions:
Sprinkle the baking soda liberally around the inside of the toilet bowl.
Slowly drizzle the vinegar over the baking soda.
Let it fizz for about 10 minutes.
Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and flush.
Uses:
Cleaning and removing light stains from the toilet bowl.
Additional Notes:
For stubborn stains, let the mixture sit longer or sprinkle more baking soda before adding the vinegar.
13. DIY "Oops" Mess Cleaner
This solution is specifically designed to help you tackle fresh pet messes on various surfaces.
Ingredients:
16 ounces hydrogen peroxide (3%)
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 teaspoon natural dish soap
Paper towels
Instructions:
Blot up as much liquid as possible from the mess using paper towels.
In the spray bottle, combine hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap. Gently swirl to mix.
Spray the affected area generously with the solution.
Blot with clean paper towels or a cloth until the stain is lifted.
If needed, repeat the process.
Uses:
Works on urine, vomit, poop, and similar organic stains on carpet, fabrics, or some hard surfaces.
Additional Notes:
Test this solution on an inconspicuous area first. For deep stains, letting the mix sit for a short while before blotting can help.
14. DIY Natural Air Freshener
Neutralize odors and freshen the air in your home with a safe, pet-friendly fragrance.
Ingredients:
Small jar or container
Baking soda
10-15 drops pet-safe essential oil (like lavender, sweet orange, or cedarwood)
Cheesecloth or other breathable fabric
Ribbon or twine
Instructions:
Fill the jar halfway with baking soda.
Add the essential oils and stir gently.
Cover the jar opening with cheesecloth, securing it with ribbon or twine.
Place in desired areas to absorb odors and release a subtle fragrance.
Uses:
Freshening any room of the house.
Additional Notes:
Essential oil strength can be adjusted to your preference. Replace the baking soda mixture every few weeks for optimal effectiveness.
15. DIY Pet-Safe Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
Keep your leather furniture and accessories looking their best (and protected from curious noses and paws) with this natural solution.
Ingredients:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons white vinegar
Soft cloth
Instructions:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and vinegar.
Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wring out excess moisture.
Wipe the leather surface gently, following the direction of the grain.
Buff with a dry portion of the cloth until the leather is clean and has a soft sheen.
Uses:
Cleaning and conditioning leather furniture, shoes, and other leather accessories.
Additional Notes:
Test this solution on a small, inconspicuous area first. Avoid using too much, as it may leave a residue.
16. DIY Pet-Safe Sticky Residue Remover
Easily remove sticker residue, pet fur stuck to surfaces, and other sticky messes with this simple method.
Ingredients:
Peanut Butter (or other natural oil, like coconut oil)
Soft cloth
Mild dish soap and warm water (for cleanup)
Instructions:
Apply a thin layer of peanut butter to the sticky area.
Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the residue.
Gently scrape or rub the residue away with a soft cloth.
Wash the area with mild dish soap and warm water to remove any remaining oiliness.
Uses:
Removing stickers, tape, labels, stuck-on pet hair, and similar residues from hard surfaces.
Additional Notes:
Test on a small area first, as some surfaces may be sensitive to oils.
17. DIY Grooming Tool Cleaner
Banish bacteria and grime from your pet's grooming tools, keeping them hygienic and ready for use.
Ingredients:
Sink or container
Warm water
White vinegar
Soft-bristled brush (optional)
Instructions:
Fill the sink or container with warm water and add a splash of white vinegar.
Soak brushes, combs, and other grooming tools for 10-15 minutes.
For stubborn dirt, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the tools clean.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let air dry.
Uses:
Cleaning and sanitizing pet brushes, combs, nail clippers, and other grooming tools.
Additional Notes:
For tools with wooden handles, minimize soaking time to prevent damage to the wood.
18. DIY Natural Flea Repellent Spray
While not a cleaning recipe, this natural spray can help you keep pesky fleas at bay. Always consult your veterinarian for the best flea prevention strategy for your pet.
Ingredients:
1 cup distilled water
½ cup apple cider vinegar
2-3 drops of cedarwood or lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Combine the distilled water, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils in the spray bottle. Shake well.
Lightly spritz your pet's coat, avoiding their face and eyes.
Uses:
Can help repel fleas when used in combination with other flea prevention measures.
Additional Notes:
This spray is not a substitute for vet-recommended flea treatment. Patch test on your pet before full use, and consult your vet about the safety of essential oils for your pet. For even more ideas check out our article on Natural Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs.
19. DIY Pet-Safe Shower and Tub Scrub
Remove soap scum, grime, and pet hair from your shower or tub with this effective cleaner.
Ingredients:
1 cup baking soda
1/4 cup natural dish soap
2-3 tablespoons white vinegar
Bowl
Sponge or scrub brush
Instructions:
In a bowl, combine baking soda and dish soap to form a paste.
Slowly add vinegar until the mixture starts to fizz.
Apply the paste to the shower or tub surface using a sponge or scrub brush.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub to remove buildup.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Uses:
Cleaning shower stalls, bathtubs, and tile surrounds.
Additional Notes:
For tough soap scum, let the mixture sit for longer before scrubbing.
20. DIY Paw Balm
Protect your dog's paws from harsh weather, salt, and rough surfaces with this soothing and nourishing balm.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons shea butter or coconut oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon beeswax (optional)
Small heatproof container
Double boiler or microwave
Instructions:
In a heatproof container, combine shea butter (or coconut oil), olive oil, and beeswax (if using).
Melt the ingredients carefully using a double boiler or by placing the container in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until melted and combined.
Pour the mixture into a small, clean jar or tin.
Allow to cool and solidify before use.
Uses:
Apply a small amount to your dog's paws before and after walks to protect and condition them.
Additional Notes:
Store in a cool, dark place. Beeswax adds firmness but can be omitted for an easier-to-apply balm.
21. DIY Furniture Scratch Deterrent Spray
Help discourage your dog or cat from scratching furniture with this simple, citrus-infused spray.
Ingredients:
1 cup water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon or orange juice
10-15 drops of lemon or orange essential oil
Instructions:
Combine water, juice, and essential oils in the spray bottle. Shake well.
Lightly spritz areas where your pet tends to scratch.
Uses:
Deterring pets from scratching furniture or other unwanted areas.
Additional Notes:
Most cats dislike citrus scents. Test on an inconspicuous area first. Refresh the spray regularly as the scent fades.
22. DIY Ear Cleaning Solution (Consult Vet First)
This gentle solution can help with routine ear cleaning for dogs. Always consult your veterinarian before using any ear cleaner, especially if your dog has a history of ear problems.
Ingredients:
½ cup warm water
¼ cup white vinegar
Cotton balls or soft gauze
Instructions:
Combine warm water and vinegar in a clean bowl.
Soak a cotton ball or gauze in the solution and gently wipe the inside of your dog's ears, removing visible dirt and buildup.
Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.
Uses:
Routine ear cleaning for dogs. Do not use if you notice any redness, inflammation, or unusual discharge.
Additional Notes:
This solution should not be used on dogs with known ear infections or sensitivities. Consult your vet for appropriate ear treatments in those cases.
23. DIY Calming Spray for Pets
Help soothe anxiety and promote relaxation for your pet with this gentle, lavender-infused mist.
Ingredients:
1 cup distilled water
1 tablespoon witch hazel
5-10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
Combine distilled water, witch hazel, and lavender essential oil in a spray bottle. Shake well.
Lightly spritz your pet's bedding, bandana, or the air around them (avoiding their eyes and face).
Uses:
Promote relaxation during stressful situations like thunderstorms, vet visits, or travel.
Additional Notes:
Choose a pure, high-quality lavender essential oil. Always research essential oil safety for your pet before use.
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