Our four-legged companions can be tough on home decor, but they bring so much joy. The challenge lies in designing spaces that remain stylish while being practical for pets.
From claw marks and shedding fur to dirt and their love for lounging on furniture, pets can leave their mark. However, expert advice can help maintain a beautiful home even with animals around.
Interior designer Emma Sims-Hilditch offers invaluable tips on achieving a pet-friendly aesthetic. Read on for her essential recommendations, and explore our design hub for more inspiration on furnishings, colors, and styles.
Check out: Top vacuums for pet hair – effective solutions for managing fur
Emma Sims-Hilditch's Advice for a Pet-Friendly Home
Emma's journal is a fantastic resource for design enthusiasts. In a recent entry, she shared her strategies for making a home accommodating for pets. Here are her top recommendations.
1. Opt for Stone Flooring
Natural stone flooring is not only stunning but also durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for homes with pets. It withstands both foot and paw traffic, and cleaning up dirt is a breeze.
Emma advises against using dark-colored tiles, as they can highlight muddy paw prints, especially when dried. Seal stone flooring to protect against stains, and consider reapplying the sealant every few years, particularly for porous stones like French limestone.
For grout, choose a mid-tone that resists showing dirt.
2. Maintain Your Wood Flooring
Wood flooring can also work beautifully in pet-friendly homes, but it requires proper care to keep it looking its best. Emma suggests using a soapy wood floor cleaner with minimal water for upkeep.
To prevent scratches, regularly trim your dog's claws. The frequency depends on the dog's breed, age, and activity level, so watch for signs like claws touching the floor or noise as they walk.
- Explore: 10 safe house plants for pets
3. Choose the Right Carpet
Carpets can coexist with pets, provided you select the right type. Loop pile carpets can snag on claws, while cut pile carpets can be difficult to clean if they become soiled. Avoid the latter in high-traffic areas.
Avoid natural fibers like sisal, which are hard to clean. Instead, opt for synthetic alternatives that are durable and easy to maintain.
4. Focus on Upholstery
Your pet's favorite spot may not be covered in the most durable fabric. Consider reupholstering furniture that shows wear. Emma recommends selecting fabrics with a rub count above 18,000 for durability.
If your furniture gathers fur easily, linen is a great choice as it repels pet hair and holds up well. A wool-linen blend is also protective and resilient.
5. Incorporate a Dog Shower in Your Mud Room
More homeowners are installing dog showers in mud rooms to clean their pets before they enter the main living areas. This setup keeps your home cleaner and reduces the frequency of floor cleaning.
For more design inspiration, visit the Sims-Hilditch website.
