Green Pet Tip: Baking Soda

Baking soda can be an important ingredient when it comes to cleaning up pet stains, removing odors, and washing pet bedding. Since it’s non-toxic it is safe to use and also a way to clean and be green.

Here are some ways baking soda can keep your pet and house clean:

If your dog needs a bath but you don’t have time or she runs away when the water begins to fill the tub, try a dry bath with some baking soda. Sprinkle some onto her fur, rub it in, and then brush it out. It’ll remove odors and absorb the oil and dander.

For cleaning up accidents that your pet has made in the house, sprinkle baking soda over the area and scrub it in. When the spot has dried, vacuum it up and the stain and smell will be removed without ruining your carpet or other fabric.

Baking soda is also a great deodorant and can remove the smells from your pet’s bedding. Simply sprinkle some on the bed, let it sit for about 15 to 20 minutes and then vacuum it. It can also be used in your ferret’s cage to control odor. Place a layer of baking soda on the bottom of your ferret’s cage and cover it with the bedding.

For that messy kitty in your life, mix some baking soda in with the litter or you can make your own cat littler by mixing a small box of baking soda with 2 to 3 inches of dry, sandy clay or other material that is non-toxic. When it is time to clean the litter box, you can use vinegar and once it dries, pour some baking soda into the box before adding new litter.

If your dog ever encounters a skunk and gets sprayed, you can remove the odor with baking soda and peroxide. Give your dog a bath with water and 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide. Then use a 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of soap to lather up the fur. Rinse your dog well.

When trimming your pet’s nails, keep some baking soda handy. If you accidentally cut too far down and cause some bleeding, you can dip the nail into the baking soda and apply pressure to stop the bleeding.

It’s important to know what we use and how it can affect us and our pets. Using non-toxic cleaners or household safe items like baking soda can help our environment, our wallet, and our health.