Inside this Article:
- 1. Take Apart the Cat Furniture for Deep Cleaning
- 2. Clear Off Cat Hair and Debris
- 3. Deep Clean Fabric Parts
- 4. Disinfect Hard Surfaces with Pet-Safe Solutions
- 5. Inspect and Rotate Scratching Poles
- 6. Reassemble the Large Cat Tower Securely
- 3 Extra Tips for Cute Cat Tree Cleaning
- Use Pet-Safe Cleaners Only
- Remove Cat Hair Before Washing
- Test Cleaning Products on Small Areas First
- Related Article:
Cat Tree Maintenance and Deep Cleaning: 6 Essential Steps
Cleaning your cat trees and towers often is important. This keeps a clean, safe, and lasting space for your cat. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide on deep cleaning your cat tree furniture effectively.
1. Take Apart the Cat Furniture for Deep Cleaning
Why:
Taking apart the modern cat tree helps you clean hidden dirt and debris. These often build up in tight spaces like joints, cracks, and under-platforms. Separating parts like platforms, posts, and hammocks ensures that each part receives proper cleaning based on its material.
How:
Step 1:
Unscrew and detach platforms, scratching posts, and any other removable sections.
Step 2:
Remove the plank tops and any fabric that needs deep cleaning for the tall cat tree.
Step 3:
Organize the parts into separate cleaning groups: wood, fabric, and sisal (scratching poles).
2. Clear Off Cat Hair and Debris
Why:
Pet hair can get tangled into fabrics and materials, making it difficult to clean once wet. Accumulated hair and dirt can also lead to allergens and unpleasant odors. Removing it first ensures more effective cleaning and fresher-smelling pet furniture.
How:
Step 1:
Use a lint roller or brush on fabric surfaces to remove visible hair and dirt.
Step 2:
Use a vacuum with a handheld attachment to clean non-fabric parts such as wood, plastic, and sisal posts. Pay special attention to corners, seams, and crevices.
Step 3:
For stubborn hair, lightly dampen a rubber glove and wipe the surfaces to lift the remaining hair, then vacuum again.
3. Deep Clean Fabric Parts
Why:
Fabric sections, such as hammocks or padded platforms, can accumulate fur, dirt, and bacteria over time. Regular cleaning helps remove stains, odors, and harmful bacteria, keeping your cat’s lounging area fresh and hygienic. Washing fabric prolongs its lifespan and keeps it comfortable for your cat.
How:
Removable Fabric:
Step 1:
If you can remove the fabric from your tall cat tower, check for care instructions. Place the fabric in a mesh laundry bag.
Step 2:
Use cold water and a gentle pet-safe detergent in the washing machine on a delicate cycle. Choose air-drying or the fluff-dry setting without heat to avoid damaging synthetic fibers.
Non-Removable Fabric:
Step 1:
Spot clean with a towel or cloth dampened with a pet-safe disinfectant.
Step 2:
Gently scrub in circular motions. Let the cleaner sit for the recommended time, usually 10 minutes. This helps break down dirt and oils.
Step 3:
Wipe clean with a dry towel, and allow it to air dry completely.
4. Disinfect Hard Surfaces with Pet-Safe Solutions
Why:
Hard surfaces like wood, plastic, or metal on a cat tree for large cats can collect bacteria, oils, and dirt. This dirt comes from your cat's paws and fur. Disinfecting these areas regularly is essential to prevent germ buildup, and keeping your cat’s environment safe and clean. Using pet-safe disinfectants ensures that you leave no harmful chemicals behind that could endanger your cat.
How:
Step 1:
Dampen a cloth or towel with a cat-safe disinfectant (e.g., CleanSmart Daily Surface Cleaner or diluted vinegar solution).
Step 2:
Wipe down all hard surfaces, including wood platforms, plastic components, and any non-fabric parts. Be sure to reach corners, joints, and the underside of platforms.
Step 3:
Let the solution sit for the recommended time, which is usually 10 to 30 minutes. After that, wipe it dry with a clean towel to remove any leftover residue.
5. Inspect and Rotate Scratching Poles
Why:
Scratching poles wear out over time, especially in areas where your cat scratches most frequently. Checking and rotating these poles helps your cat keep using the cat tree house for scratching. This way, your furniture stays safe. This also helps distribute wear evenly, prolonging the life of the scratching posts.
How:
Step 1:
Look for areas of the scratching posts that are heavily frayed or worn down. Gently pull on the sisal to see if it’s loose or unraveling.
Step 2:
If the post is still in good shape but worn unevenly, you can rotate it. Just detach it from the base and reattach it with a less-worn area facing out.
Step 3:
For posts that are too damaged, consider replacing the sisal rope or the entire post. To replace the sisal, remove the old rope, wrap the new sisal tightly around the pole, and secure it with a non-toxic adhesive.
6. Reassemble the Large Cat Tower Securely
Why:
Reassembling the large cat tree properly is essential for your cat’s safety. Loose or improperly attached parts can cause instability, leading to accidents when your cat jumps or climbs. Tightly securing everything also prevents wobbling, which might make your cat hesitant to use the pet friendly furniture .
How:
Step 1:
Once all parts are clean and dry, reattach the platforms, scratching poles, and other components.
Step 2:
Tighten all screws, bolts, and connectors securely. For poles, make sure they don’t spin or wobble when you apply pressure.
Step 3:
Check the stability of the entire modern cat furniture by gently shaking it. If any parts seem loose, retighten them to ensure safety and durability.
3 Extra Tips for Cute Cat Tree Cleaning
Use Pet-Safe Cleaners Only
Why:
Many household cleaners contain harmful chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or alcohol that are toxic to cats. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues if ingested or absorbed through their paws.
How:
Always use a cat condo labeled as safe for pets. Choose natural or non-toxic cleaners like CleanSmart or make your own with equal parts water and distilled white vinegar.
Remove Cat Hair Before Washing
Why:
Cat hair tends to clump together when wet, making it difficult to clean and clogging your washing machine.
How:
Use a lint roller, brush, or vacuum to remove as much hair as possible before washing any fabric components. This will ensure a more thorough cleaning and prevent hair buildup in your laundry.
Test Cleaning Products on Small Areas First
Why:
Some cleaning solutions, even pet-safe ones, may cause discoloration or damage certain materials.
How:
Apply a small amount of the cleaner to a hidden or inconspicuous area on your cat condo tower. Wait a few minutes to check for any negative reactions before using it on the entire surface.
Following these detailed steps will keep your modern cat tower clean, safe, and inviting for your cat. Regular maintenance will ensure a hygienic environment while prolonging the lifespan of your investment.
