As much as we adore our pets, they don’t exactly come with an interior design guide. From fur-coated furniture to the occasional “oops” on the rug, pets can make even the chicest home feel a little... well, lived-in.
But that doesn’t mean your style has to go out the window just because Fluffy and Fido have moved in. In fact, with a little creativity, you can strike the perfect balance between pet-friendly and Pinterest-worthy. Here’s how!
Choose Pet-Friendly Fabrics (That Don’t Scream “Pet-Friendly”)
First things first: fabric choice. If you’ve ever watched your cat “knead” your velvet couch like it’s a dough ball, you know that not all fabrics are pet-proof. The trick is finding materials that are durable, easy to clean, and stylish. Look for:
Leather or Faux Leather: It’s chic, easy to wipe clean, and pet hair won’t stick to it. Just be cautious of those claws – scratches happen!
Performance Fabrics: These are designed to be stain-resistant, durable, and pet-friendly, without looking like you’re using outdoor furniture indoors.
Microfibre: A magical fabric for pet owners. It’s soft, resistant to claw marks, and cleans up easily. Plus, it’s cozy enough for both you and your pets to enjoy a good nap on. A win-win!
Stylish Rugs That Can Handle Messes
Rugs can transform your home – but they’re also where pets tend to leave their mark (literally). Opt for:
Indoor/Outdoor Rugs: They’ve come a long way from the stiff, plastic-y versions of yesteryear. Nowadays, they’re soft, stylish, and a breeze to clean. Muddy paws? No problem.
Washable Rugs: Yes, these exist! You can toss them in the washing machine after any pet-related mishaps, and they come in all sorts of stylish patterns.
PRO TIP: Avoid rugs with heavy texture or loops, unless you want your cat to turn them into their personal scratching post.
Pet Furniture That Doesn’t Look Like Pet Furniture
Your pet deserves their own little oasis, but that doesn’t mean you have to clutter your home with bulky, unsightly pet beds and towers. Look for pet furniture that blends into your home’s design:
Stylish Pet Beds: There are plenty of stylish options that fit into your decor, from modern pet loungers to cozy nests that look more like designer decor than something your dog will drool on.
Cat Trees That Aren’t Hideous: Believe it or not, there are cat trees out there that won’t make your living room look like a feline jungle gym. Look for minimalist designs in neutral colours – your cat will love it, and so will your sense of style.
Keep It Organised – Even the Pet Stuff
We love our pets, but their toys? Not so much. The key is to keep pet toys, leashes, and accessories organised (and out of sight) with clever storage solutions:
Baskets and Bins: Stylish baskets can hide a multitude of sins – er, I mean, toys. Woven baskets or decorative bins can blend into your decor while giving you a place to quickly toss those squeaky toys.
Hooks for Leashes and Collars: Hang some decorative hooks by the door to keep your pet’s gear organised and off the floor. Bonus points if the hooks match your home’s style!
Create Pet Zones
Let’s face it, your pet is going to take over some space. Instead of fighting it, embrace it by creating designated pet-friendly zones.
For example, set up a cozy spot for your pet in the living room with their bed and toys, or dedicate a corner for their food and water that’s tucked out of the way (but still chic, of course).
PRO TIP: A stylish feeding mat can help keep the area tidy and protect your floors from spills.
Decorate with Pet-Proof Plants
If you’re a plant lover, you know that not all greenery is pet-safe. Opt for pet-friendly plants that will add a touch of green to your home without causing harm to your furry pals. Some safe options include:
Spider plants
Boston ferns
Areca palms
Not only will they brighten up your space, but they’ll also make your home feel more warm and welcoming. (and less like a pet playground).
Embrace Fur-Friendly Colour Palettes
Pet fur is a fact of life, but it doesn’t have to ruin your aesthetic. If you have a pet that sheds, consider matching your home’s colour palette to their fur. Got a white cat? Opt for lighter furniture.
A black lab? Darker fabrics will be your best friend. It’s a simple trick, but it makes a big difference when it comes to keeping your home looking clean.
The Final Touch: Pet-Friendly Cleaning Tools
Last but not least, invest in some well-designed pet-friendly cleaning tools. A cordless vacuum that’s easy to grab for quick fur pick-ups, lint rollers (hidden in pretty storage), and a good air purifier to keep dander at bay are all must-haves.
Creating a pet-friendly home without sacrificing style isn’t just possible – it can be fun! With the right fabrics, clever storage, and chic pet accessories, your home can be both a stylish retreat for you and a cozy haven for your furry friend. After all, who says you can’t have your dog bed and a designer sofa, too?
Now, if only they could help out with the cleaning!
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