Rental properties can hold onto pet odors even after pet-owning tenants have moved out. These smells can make finding new tenants harder, most of all for those who are sensitive to odors or who don’t own pets. Getting rid of pet odors is especially challenging after a lengthy stay by a tenant or when a significant pet-related mess has been left behind. These general tips will help you restore your rental property and remove pet odors effectively.
The Quick Science Behind Pet Odors
It’s common for rental properties that allow pets to have pet odor issues. These odors come from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that bacteria in pet urine or feces break down. Clean carpets, upholstery, and hard surfaces on a regular basis to help keep these odors under control. Enzymatic cleaners excel at dismantling the substances that cause odors. Let tenants know exactly what you expect and keep up regular cleaning to help prevent persistent odors.
Methods for Removing Pet Odors from Your Rental Property
Choose cleaning products that are safe for both people and pets for treating carpets, upholstery, and hard surfaces. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent pet odors from becoming a persistent issue.
- Enzymatic cleaners are effective against pet odors because enzymes break down the bacteria that cause them. Use them on hard surfaces, upholstery, and carpets; they can also help remove stains left by pet urine or feces. The price may be higher than that of some other products, but the effectiveness often makes enzymatic cleaners a worthwhile investment.
- Baking soda and vinegar, both common household products, can help eliminate pet odors. Baking soda absorbs odors naturally: sprinkle it over carpets and upholstery, leave it for several hours, then vacuum it up. On hard surfaces, a water-and-vinegar spray works as a natural disinfectant and helps neutralize odors.
- Activated charcoal is one more natural option for absorbing odors and removing persistent smells. Leave bowls of it around the property to help absorb odors, placing them with care to prevent spills or messes during cleanup.
- By filtering out allergens and pet dander, air purifiers can be an effective way to remove pet odors. On the other hand, they require regular maintenance and may involve a higher initial investment.
Keeping Your Rental Property Odor-Free
Rental properties stay odor-free when pet odors are prevented from developing in the first place. Routine cleaning and maintenance can prevent pet odors from becoming a problem. Here is what to consider if you want to prevent future pet odors:
- Create clear guidelines for tenants who have pets. Be certain they understand their responsibility to keep the property clean and odor-free. Encourage them to use odor-control products and to clean up after their pets regularly, in the house and outside.
- Ongoing cleaning and maintenance: Pet odors can be kept from becoming an issue through routine cleaning and maintenance. Clean hard surfaces, carpets, and upholstery regularly to prevent odors from accumulating, and pick cleaning supplies that are safe for people and pets.
- Air purification: Place air purifiers in shared areas or across the whole rental property to cut down on pet odors and filter allergens such as pet dander.
- Limit the number and size of pets: To reduce the risk of odors and property damage, set sensible limits on the number and size of pets that your rental properties allow.
Besides affecting tenants’ health, pet odors can lessen the appeal of a rental property. Owners and managers of rental properties should put effective odor removal strategies to work, including air purifiers, baking soda, vinegar, enzymatic cleaners, and activated charcoal. Preventative measures, including clear guidelines for pet tenants, regular cleaning, and reasonable pet restrictions, help rental properties stay fresh and attractive to all tenants.
If you need additional support with property management or maintaining rental properties, contact our team at Real Property Management Advantage today.
Originally Published on February 9, 2024
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
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