Sharing your home with a pet means endless affection, but it can also mean fur-covered sofas, mystery stains, and lingering odors.

Fortunately, keeping your furniture clean and fresh isn’t necessarily complicated. It comes down to selecting smart materials and caring for them consistently. Here are four ways to keep your spaces looking (and smelling) their best, even with a four-legged companion around.

Choose appropriate materials

Just as breathable linens impact bedding, durable and easy-to-clean materials matter for furniture. For example, performance fabrics like microfiber and tightly woven cotton blends repel moisture, resist stains, and don’t trap fur easily. And believe it or not, leather can also work well in pet homes since it’s super easy to wipe clean. Just remember to protect it from sharp claws. A good overall option is furniture slipcovers, which not only protect your pieces but also are easy to wash.

Stay ahead of fur and dander

This dastardly duo is a given for most pets; the key is preventing buildup. To start, always remember to brush your pet regularly, which can minimize the amount of fur that settles on and in your furniture. A quick daily sweep of surfaces with a hand vacuum or lint roller can also keep it under control, but you’ll want to use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment weekly for more thorough cleaning.

Keep odors at bay

To maintain a fresh-smelling place, sprinkle baking soda over cushions and let it sit for fifteen to sixty minutes before vacuuming. Also, if possible, utilize washable throws and pet blankets for an extra layer of protection against odors.

Handle stains the smart way

Accidents are part of the pet package, so make sure that you have the tools needed to handle them. Blot the area immediately with a clean cloth rather than scrubbing, which can set the stain. A mild detergent mixed with water works for most messes, and enzymatic cleaners are effective for organic stains and odors; for either option, always spot-test first.