Moving out of an apartment can be stressful. On top of moving and packing all of your belongings, you need to ensure that the place is clean and damage free to get your security deposit back. If you have a pet, the cleaning process will be even more grueling, as pets can leave behind odd smells and messes that you may not notice until you’ve started moving around furniture. Read on for some surefire ways to get rid of all traces of your pet from your apartment.
Thoroughly Clean the Carpet
It’s obvious you’re going to need to vacuum your apartment before you leave, but if you have a pet, you need to clean much deeper. Petfinder.com recommends renting a steam cleaner to deep clean your carpets. A steam cleaner will pick up finer hairs that are embedded in your carpet. These small hairs would be impossible for a vacuum to remove. Steam cleaners can also help freshen up your carpet and remove any odors and messes your pet may have left behind.
Get an Air Purifier
Cheap Movers San Diego, discount movers San Diego, says air purifiers help to remove pet dander and freshen the air in your home. They’re often priced very reasonably, and you can speed up the purifying process by opening your windows while the purifier is running.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
Rent.com recommends using this combination of ingredients to remove any stains your pet may have left behind. And unless you’re very lucky, there are bound to be a few. While you should ideally use this technique as soon as the stain appears, it can be used on old stains as well. All you have to do is mix equal parts of vinegar and water. Then, use a sponge or old cloth to soak your stains with the liquid and vacuum the carpet once the liquid dries. Next, you’ll want to sprinkle baking soda over the stains. As the baking soda sits on the carpet, mix some peroxide and dish soap. Apply this mixture over top of the baking soda and scrub the stained area with a brush. Once the mixture has dried, you can vacuum it up.
Ask For Additional Opinions
Apartmentguide.com recommends getting a friend who doesn’t have a pet to inspect your apartment after you’ve finished cleaning it. People who don’t have pets aren’t as accustomed to their smells and hair. They may be able to give you a different perspective and help determine whether your apartment needs additional cleaning. Plus, it’s always best to seek a second opinion, especially if your security deposit is on the line.
Follow these tips, and it will be as if your pet never set foot in your apartment, and you’ll be ready to move on to your new place with your hefty security deposit in hand.