We know you want your house to be clean—we do, too. But if you have pets, their safety is everything. Unfortunately, some cleaning products contain ingredients that are dangerous to your dog. Keep your pup happy and healthy by replacing toxic chemicals with pet-safe cleaning products.
How to Know if Cleaning Products Are Safe for Your Dog
There are a lot of products in the cleaning aisle, so we get that it's hard to know what'll be safe for your pooch and what won't. But with some simple info, you can make choices you know won't harm your pet.
Check for Cleaning Ingredients Toxic to Dogs
When you're looking at the ingredients label, it can be hard to tell what's safe and what isn't. Use the following chart to determine if any of the ingredients listed on the label are toxic. If you're out shopping and see one that's on the list, set the cleaner back on the shelf and look at others.
| Ingredient | Type of Cleaners |
| Ammonia | Degreasers, oven cleaners, window cleaners |
| Bleach | Common household cleaners |
| Chlorine | Common in disinfectants, toilet bowl cleaners, laundry whiteners |
| Formaldehyde | Soaps, shampoos |
| Glycol ether | Carpet cleaners, spot removers, glass cleaners |
| Isopropyl alcohol | Disinfectant, window cleaner |
| Perchloroethylene | Carpet cleaner, rug cleaner |
| Phenols | Disinfectant |
| Phthalates | Air fresheners, dish soap |
| Sodium hydroxide | Drain cleaner, oven cleaner |
| Sodium hypochlorite | Multipurpose cleaner, drain cleaner, disinfectant |
If you use products containing the above ingredients and your pooch comes into contact with them, your dog could experience vomiting, diarrhea, and chemicals burns, among other signs of poisoning. So while we know it's hard to give up some of your favorite products if they contain these ingredients, switching to something new could be beneficial to not only your dog's health, but yours, too.
Many products clearly state they're toxic if you look at the bottle close enough. Sometimes it's hidden in the fine print where it's harder to see.
Avoid Common Toxic Cleaners That Your Dog Could Come in Contact With
Most of the cleaning products on the shelves aren't safe for your dog, or for you. Watch out for the most toxic players.
- Floor cleaners: Commercial floor cleaners are often unsafe for your dog. No matter how hard you try to get all the residue off the floor, there will still be vapors that your dog is forced to breathe in.
- All-purpose cleaners: These often contain one or more ingredients on the list above, and they leave residue on surfaces where your dog can reach.
- Bathroom cleaners: Bleach-based cleaners are quite dangerous to dogs. Even though most people aren't aware that household cleaners can be toxic in general, they do know bleach can be particularly hazardous. Continuous toilet bowl cleaners, like the ones that turn the water blue, also pose a danger to your dog.
- Glass cleaner: These often contain ammonia, alcohol, or other hazardous ingredients.
- Laundry soap: Any traditional laundry soap can leave residue on your dog's bed, blankets, and stuffed toys. These are particularly hazardous to dogs that chew on their toys and bedding.
Use Pet-Safe Cleaning Products for Peace of Mind
Instead of using the common toxic cleaners, you can make your own. Not only will you be proud of creating your concoction, but you can rest easy knowing exactly what's in the bottle.
Baking Soda Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Baking soda can be a great dog-safe alternative to toilet bowl cleaners, shower scrubs, and counter cleansers because it's mildly abrasive. This DIY dog-safe cleaner only requires three ingredients, not only making it safer, but significantly less expensive. Mix up the recipe and apply as-needed.
Ingredients
- Baking soda
- Warm water
- Salt
Directions
- Mix equal parts of the ingredients to create a paste.
- Use a sponge or hand towel to clean as-needed.
You can also use baking soda to remove stains on carpet. Sprinkle dry baking soda on the spot and allow it to sit, then vacuum.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Cleaning with vinegar is safe for dogs. If you need a disinfectant, an apple cider vinegar rinse could be exactly the thing.
Ingredients
- Apple cider vinegar
- Water
- Lemon juice
Directions
- Mix one part vinegar and four parts water in a spray bottle, then add a squeeze of lemon to the mixture.
- Shake well to get all the compounds to mix.
This pet-safe disinfectant makes your house smell good naturally.
Pet-Safe Commercial Products
If you're not feeling up to making your own cleaner, these products are known for their cleaning power and safety with pets.
- Puracy Natural All-Purpose Cleaner: This cleaner is made from plant-based ingredients and is safe for use around pets. It's also biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice.
- Better Life Natural All-Purpose Cleaner: Made with plant-derived ingredients, this cleaner is safe for pets and is also biodegradable. There are two common scents; clary sage & citrus or pomegranate.
- Seventh Generation Free & Clear All-Purpose Cleaner: This product is free from dyes, artificial scents, and harsh chemicals, making it a safe choice for households with pets.
- Eco-Me Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner: This cleaner is made from food-grade and plant-based ingredients, including plant extracts, essential oils, and vinegar.
- Aunt Fannie's Vinegar Wash Floor Cleaner: This cleaner is non-toxic and uses vinegar and plant-based ingredients to clean floors effectively. Plus, there's no rinsing involved, making it easier to use than others.
- Nature's Miracle Deep Cleaning Pet Stain and Odor Carpet Shampoo: This product is specifically designed to deal with pet messes and is low foam, making it easy to use in any shampooer.
- Earth-Friendly Products Pet Stain & Odor Remover: This product is made from plant-based ingredients and is specifically designed to tackle pet stains and odors.
I prefer to use Melaleuca products while I'm cleaning. They're all natural, and I don't have to worry about my dogs or children getting into them. When I learned how harmful traditional cleaning products are, all my old cleaning products went in the garbage, and they were all replaced.
Keep Your Pup Safe With Pet-Safe Cleaners
Use caution when cleaning your house. Take a look at the ingredients before bringing any cleaner home. If you're up to it, keep a stash of DIY cleaners for use when necessary. The damage from cleaning products can last a lifetime for everyone in your family, including your dog.
