As a dog owner, keeping your home clean can be a challenge, especially when it comes to protecting your walls from dog dirt. Dog dirt on walls is unsightly and can lead to stained or damaged paint. The good news is that with some simple solutions, you can keep your walls clean and dirt-free.
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Use wall protectors
One of the best ways to protect your walls is by using wall protectors. Wall protectors are plastic sheets that you affix to the lower part of your walls. They act as a barrier between the wall and potential dirt and moisture. Look for wall protectors that are sturdy but thin, so they lie flat against the wall. Self-adhesive wall protectors are easy to install. Place them around 2-3 feet up from the floor, in areas where your dog often walks or lies down.
Train your dog
Training your dog to stay away from walls can go a long way in keeping them clean. Start by teaching them the “off” command, so they learn to move away from the walls when told. Reward them with treats when they obey. You can also set up barriers like baby gates to keep them away from vulnerable walls. Placing their bed and food bowls away from walls will also discourage them from getting too close.
Use wall-mounted pet barriers
For extra protection, install wall-mounted pet barriers. These are clear acrylic shields that attach to your wall using adhesive strips or screws. They create a smooth, see-through barrier in front of the wall that prevents dirt, moisture and scratches. Place these shields in dirty areas like next to the back door or in corners. They are barely noticeable but very effective at keeping walls clean.
Clean walls regularly
Regular cleaning is key to preventing lasting dirt and stains on your walls. Clean any fresh dirt as soon as you notice it. Use a magic eraser or multi-surface cleaner and gently scrub at the dirt until it lifts off. For more stubborn dirt or grease marks, use a degreasing cleaner. Test any new cleaners on a small area first to ensure they don’t damage the paint. Clean your walls once a week to stay on top of any mess.
Repaint dirty walls
If you have persistent dirt or grease stains that regular cleaning doesn’t remove, it may be time to repaint. The stains may have penetrated into the paint and drywall, so painting over is the only way to fully renew the appearance of the wall. Clean the wall thoroughly before repainting. Use an oil-based primer to block stubborn stains, then repaint with a high-quality latex paint in a matte or eggshell finish.
Block access to problem areas
If certain walls are chronically dirty from your dog, it may help to restrict access to those areas. Close doors to off-limit rooms or install temporary pet gates to keep your dog away. You can also place furniture like bookcases in front of vulnerable wall areas. Out of sight, out of mind. Your dog can’t dirty walls they can’t reach.
Use wall-mounted scratching posts
For dogs that like to scratch against walls, provide appropriate alternatives. Mounted scratching posts give them a designated place to satisfy their scratching urges without damaging your walls. Place the posts in areas where your dog already tries to scratch. Praise them when they use the post to reinforce the behavior. You can also apply deterrent sprays to the walls to discourage scratching.
Apply a fresh coat of paint
Over time, your walls can start looking dingy, even if you clean regularly. Oil, dirt and moisture take their toll on your paint. Applying a fresh coat of paint provides a clean slate and renews the appearance of your walls. Clean the walls thoroughly before painting and fill any cracks or holes with spackle. Use a primer if needed, then apply two coats of a durable, scrubbable latex paint. Your walls will look like new again.
Remove carpeting
Carpet can be a nightmare when it comes to trapping dirt, hair, and moisture from pets. All that filth eventually ends up on your walls as your dog walks around and brushes up against them. Removing wall-to-wall carpeting reduces the overall dirt in the environment. Go for bare floors or area rugs that can be taken outside for cleaning instead.
Improve ventilation
Stale air and humidity contribute to dirt accumulation on walls. Improve ventilation by opening windows regularly to let fresh air circulate. Run exhaust fans in problem areas like the bathroom or laundry room. Dehumidifiers also help regulate moisture. Less humidity means less condensation, mold and mildew on your walls.
Use vacuum attachments
Your regular vacuum is great for floors, but sometimes you need to get dirt directly off your walls. Use vacuum attachments like crevice tools, soft bristle brushes and upholstery nozzles to vacuum walls. This is especially helpful for cobwebs and dust buildup near ceilings or in corners. Go slowly to avoid damaging the paint. Vacuuming gets walls cleaner between deep cleaning sessions.
Conclusion
Dirty dog paws can take a toll on your pristine walls. With some smart preventative measures like wall protectors, barriers and training, you can minimize the mess. Combine these tactics with regular cleaning and maintenance to keep your walls looking their best. A little diligence goes a long way in protecting your walls from dog dirt and damage.
