5 ways to pet proof your furniture at home

Let’s be real, while we adore our furry friends, they oftentimes are not very considerate housemates. Between shedding and scratching, pets can really leave their mark on furniture. Not to worry, at Tailored Spaces, we’ve come up with 5 ways to pet proof your furniture!

1. Choose pet friendly fabrics

Our beloved furry friends can be tough on our furniture, so it’s important to avoid silk or velvet. Instead, opt for pet friendly options such as microfiber, leather or tightly woven fabrics. Leather is a popular choice because it’s easy to clean and microfiber is favored due to its durability and ability to withstand zoomies!

2. Invest in furniture covers

If completely changing furniture fabrics is not an option, consider investing in furniture covers to protect your sofas and chairs. Luckily, at Tailored Spaces we offer a wide variety of stylish options that blend into your decor and protect your furniture. Plus, these are super easy to wash and maintain. 

3. Regularly groom your pet

Shedding is the bane of many pet owners- in order to cut down on this issue, regular grooming can help solve this issue. Bathing and brushing your furry friend will help cut down on this extra hair. Oh and don’t forget about those nail trims! Giving your pet a mani can prevent furniture scratching and that oh no moment. 

4. Use lint rollers/ packing tape for picking up fur

Unfortunately, no matter how much you groom your pet, there’s going to be some shedding-it’s part of the fur-niture deal! One of our favorite hacks is using lint rollers or packing tape. Just roll, peal and repeat, your furniture will thank you for it!

5. Avoid bare wood furniture- if your pet chews

Prevent the frustration of arriving home to chewed up chair legs by avoiding wood furniture. While not all pets will chew on furniture, for some young pets this can be irresistible, especially if they’re chilling out at home. A top tip for avoiding chewed up furniture, is the use of a pet safe repellent on wood. 

Pet Proof Apartment Tips

Apartments are often overlooked when looking into pet proofing solutions, but living with a pet in a small space can almost feel like a mini zoo. While apartments offer limited space, we’re here to make pet-proofing simple with these tips. 

1. Window screens and Balcony Barriers

When it comes to apartment living with pets, safety should always be a top priority especially if you’re living on an upper floor. We don’t need any ‘risky adventures’ outside! Installing window screens and protective balcony barriers allows them to enjoy the view without the risk of tumbling out.

2. Furniture Protection

With limited space, furniture is often the centerpiece of our apartments. Unfortunately, it’s often the first thing our beloved pets will target. Whether it's scratching, chewing, or shedding, your furniture needs protection. Consider using slipcovers, washable pet-friendly fabrics, and furniture protectors. There are also adhesive scratch guards that can keep your pet from damaging your couch or chairs.

3. Maximizing the small space

Space is limited in apartments, so it’s imperative to get the most out of your space. You can do this by using vertical pet storage to keep pet items organized and off the floor. shelves, hooks, and bins are great for stowing toys, leashes, and grooming supplies, ensuring they stay out of the way when not in use. When it comes to floor space, consider investing in a few non-slip rugs or mats to help protect your floors from scratches and to provide comfort for your pet.

4. Pet friendly zones

Being strategic about how much space your pet has access to is essential. Pet gates can be useful to block off rooms you don’t want your pet to have access to, and also protect your furniture from any accidental damage. For added style and comfort, consider adding a decorative gate with a comfy bed for your pet. This creates a comfortable, safe space where your pet can relax without causing chaos in other parts of your apartment.