The use of effective household disinfectants - especially those registered with the EPA - is essential for maintaining a hygienic home, but many of these products contain ingredients that can be hazardous to pets.
Common substances like isopropyl alcohol, chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide, phenol based compounds, ammonia, glycol ethers, and formaldehyde should be used with caution.
To minimize risk, pets should be kept out of the room during cleaning, the space should be well ventilated, and all surfaces should be completely dry before reentry.
Cleaning products should never be left unattended during use.
Proper storage of these items is equally important in preventing accidental exposure. Cleaning agents should be kept out of reach of pets, ideally behind childproof locks or in elevated locations like shelves or garages.
In the event of accidental ingestion or contact, it is crucial to have the product information available when contacting a poison control center.
Maintaining a clean home does not require compromising pet safety - just thoughtful precautions and safe storage practices.
Chewy editorial team reminds you that as we work hard to keep our homes clean and germ free, it is just as important to keep our pets safe from the hidden dangers of cleaning products.
With a few thoughtful precautions, we can protect our furry companions while still maintaining a healthy, sanitized environment for the whole family.
