Our homes are no stranger to a little chaos! With kids and dogs running around, it’s not uncommon to find fur on the couch or a spilled drink. But there are a few tricks to keep the mess to a minimum and create a pet-friendly home.
You know it’s possible to have a home full of furry friends and still enjoy the things we love. Today, we’re sharing key considerations for maintaining a lean, happy space friendly to little ones.
How to Create a Pet-friendly Home
1. Add Durable Slipcovers
When designing a home that is safe for kids and pet-friendly, you don’t have to replace your furniture entirely. If you want to protect your sofas and chairs from the messes of pets and children, stylish slipcovers for modern home interiors are an easy solution.
These covers are durable, easy to maintain, and offer a pet-friendly option for busy households. Made from 100% soft polyester microfiber, they’re built to handle everyday use while adding a sleek, fashionable touch to your space.
This way, you can keep your furniture looking new without compromising on comfort or style.
2. Be Mindful of Toxic Plants & Substances
While plants can add color and life to a space, some indoor plants are dangerous to children and family pets. Poisonous plants like lilies, ivy, and certain types of ferns can be harmful if ingested or touched.
It’s essential to research any species you bring into your home to ensure they’re non-toxic.
Another consideration is the chemicals used in paints, cleaning products, and air fresheners. Choose non-toxic, eco-friendly alternatives to keep your home safe for all members of the family.
Opt for paints that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and use natural cleaning solutions when possible.
3. Avoid Sharp Edges
When styling a pet-friendly home with young children, it’s crucial to consider safety. Furniture with sharp corners can lead to accidents. Coffee tables, side tables, and other furniture with sharp edges can pose safety risks.
To reduce these hazards, choose furniture with rounded corners or add corner protectors. Alternatively, cushion-based protectors can be subtly placed on tables to soften the edges.
The goal is to create a space where your kids and pets can move around safely and without the risk of injury.
4. Wicker, Rattan & Sisal: Proceed With Caution
Wicker, rattan, and sisal are materials that can add a rustic charm to your decor. However, they may not be the best choice for homes with pets or young children. While these materials are durable, they can also pose potential risks.
Pets, especially cats and dogs, may be drawn to chew or scratch wicker and rattan furniture, which can lead to damage over time. Additionally, sisal rugs, while stylish, can easily unravel or fray, creating small pieces that may pose a choking hazard for young children.
Consider using these materials sparingly or choosing items that are reinforced to withstand the wear and tear of a busy household.
5. Long & Flowy Drapes: A Potential Tripping Hazard
While long, flowing curtains can make a room look beautiful, they can also be dangerous. Kids and pets might tug on them or trip over the extra fabric.
To avoid this, it’s best to use shorter curtains or ones that can be tied back safely. Another good idea is to use shades, blinds, or shutters. These are easier to care for and safer for homes with pets and children.
6. Choosing the Right Rugs and Flooring for Durability
If you have kids and pets, you need tough stuff in your house. Those pretty jute and silk rugs might look great, but they won’t last.
Jute falls apart easily, and silk stains in a second. Think about rugs made from something like polypropylene instead. They’re easy to clean and won’t stain.
For floors, vinyl, laminate, and tile are all good choices because they’re durable and easy to take care of. If you want carpet, get the short kind or the kind that doesn’t stain easily.
That way, it won’t look worn out after a while.
7. Flat Paint for Rooms with High-Traffic
When selecting wall finishes, many homeowners turn to flat paint for its matte finish and ability to conceal imperfections.
Unlike glossy finishes, which can highlight smudges and fingerprints, flat paint does a better job of hiding marks. Furthermore, flat paint is less prone to scratching or scuffing, making it a durable option for busy households.
If you’re concerned about cleaning, some modern flat paints are formulated to be washable, offering practicality and a smooth finish.
Making a home look good and keeping it safe for kids and pets takes some planning. If you use these tips and pick the right stuff for your house, you can have a beautiful space that works for everyone.
With a little thought, your home can be a comfortable place for your whole family – kids, pets, and you – and still look great.
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