HOMESTAR Blog

Got Pets? Here’s How to Remove Pet Odor Before Selling Your Home

Are you in the market to sell your home? If you are and you have some furry friends roaming around your home, we have some tips when it comes to removing lingering pet odors. Eliminating pet odors from your home before you put it on the market will improve the likelihood that your home will be sold.

After some time, your nose may have adjusted to your pet’s smell; but, potential homebuyers could be turned off by any odor, beyond pet odor. Therefore, we’ve put together some tips to help you eliminate any chance of pet odor lingering during showings, open houses, and more.

Here are 5 things you can do to eliminate pet odor in the home:

1. Clean and groom your pet(s).

The last thing you want to do is waste valuable time cleaning everything only to forget about bathing your pet(s) first. After all, they are the source of bad smells.

We recommend that you bathe your pet(s) and groom them often – setting up a grooming schedule will keep those odors at bay and from transferring to your new home. Then, you won’t have to worry about trying to find and eliminate pet odors when selling your next home.

2. Locate all the possible sources.

As unappealing as it sounds, you will need to investigate and locate each source of the odor(s) and treat it/them. Basically, everywhere your pet goes needs to be treated, even the least suspecting areas. Some odors can do a good job of hiding.

3. Treat the sources.

From bedding to carpet to pet bowls to well…everything your pet touches, you will need to wash and deep clean everything. Even if you don’t smell anything (remember, your nose may be used to it), it’s probably a good idea to go ahead and clean it. Better safe than sorry!

4. Don’t forget the pet fur!

Unless you have a hairless cat (which, if you do, it makes things much easier!), chances are carpets, furniture, floors, and your clothes are housing lots of fur. Yuck! In this case, vacuum everything you can – even places where you know your pet hasn’t gone (yes, that fur can travel!).

5. Use natural ways to help alleviate odors.

Open curtains and windows to allow sunlight and fresh air in to help naturally disinfect and move in clean air. Natural air fresheners or essential oils can also help by providing appealing scents into your home.

By following these tips, you can remove pet odors before you list your home for sale. Plus, you can continue following these tips as you take care of your next home.

Need assistance with a mortgage on your new home? Contact us today to learn more.