Approximately 20% of U.S. companies currently promote a pet-friendly policy. And while studies show the benefits of allowing animals in the office is overwhelming, it also complicates the cleaning process.
As any pet-lover can attest to, paws, claws and tiny bladders can wreak havoc on furniture, carpeting and upholstery-diminishing its appearance and creating the need for early replacement.
Fortunately, there are ways to allow pets in the workplace and preserve your office too. It just requires a little extra thought and planning.
Pet Odors and Stains
There will be accidents. That’s just a given. Just plan ahead and have carpets and upholstery treated with a stain protectant to help ward off the damage. Any lingering odors can be masked with air fresheners and topical deodorizers.
Hair and Dander
A major trigger for allergies among adults is pet hair and dander, which is why the floors must be diligently cleaned. A vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter works best on carpet, while non-carpeted floors benefit from an electrostatic cloth.
Kitty Litter
There’s a reason why pregnant women are told to avoid cats. While the animal itself is not harmful, their waste can carry a parasite that causes an infection called toxoplasmosis, which is risky during pregnancy. Litter boxes should be cleaned out nightly, and the litter should be replaced every ten days. And because cats can transfer of through their paws, counters and food prep areas should be cleaned and disinfected every night.
Pets require a little extra maintenance, but not so much that it doesn’t make a pet-friendly office environment worth the work. Need help cleaning up after employees and their four-legged friends? Remember that SFM uses Green Seal Certified Cleaning Products, which are less toxic and eco-friendly.