Home Decor Ideas for Pet Friendly Homes: Suggested Materials

In this post, I’ll walk you through the best durable and easy-to-clean Materials for a Pet-friendly home, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time snuggling your four-legged friend.

Natasha Del Brocco

8/3/2025

How to Choose Durable and Easy-to-Clean Materials for a Pet-Friendly Home

If you’re like me, your pets aren’t just animals — they’re family. I’ve always shared my home with dogs, and over the years, I’ve learned firsthand what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to designing a space that can handle muddy paws, fur, accidents, and the occasional chew session. As an interior designer and lifelong pet lover, I believe that style and pet-friendliness are equally important. The key? Choosing the right materials from the start.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the best durable and easy-to-clean materials for a pet-friendly home — so you can spend less time cleaning and more time snuggling your four-legged companions.

Common Pet-Related Home Decor Issues

Decorating a home with pets needs careful thought. It's about finding a balance between looks and practicality. As a pet owner, you know the common problems that come with it.

Pet owners often deal with damaged furniture, stained carpets, and scratched floors. These issues can be both frustrating and expensive. To avoid these problems, choose materials and furniture that are both stylish and tough.

Balancing Style and Functionality

Finding the right balance between style and function is key. Pick materials and furniture that look good but also are:

✔ Easy to clean
✔ Resists stains, scratches, and odors
✔ Durable enough to handle daily wear
✔ Doesn’t trap hair or dander

Easy Pick: Pet Hair Removal Roller

Planning Your Pet-Friendly Space

When planning your pet-friendly space, think about your pets' needs and your lifestyle. Consider where your pets spend most of their time. Design those areas to be both useful and stylish. A well-thought-out space can prevent pet damage and make cleaning simpler.

When picking materials, think about cost and how long they last. Some materials might cost more at first but save money in the long run. For example, hardwood floors are pricier than carpet but last longer and are easier to clean.

By picking the right materials and thinking about durability and upkeep, you can make a beautiful home that's good for you and your pets.

Flooring Options for Pet Owners

Flooring is one of the most important elements to consider when designing a home. It needs to be both stylish and practical. With pets living in a home, the right flooring can make an even bigger difference. It should be durable, easy to clean, and able to withstand daily wear and tear.

Luxury Vinyl Plank and Tile

Luxury vinyl Plank (LVP) and Tile (LVT) are top picks for pet owners. LVP and LVT are waterproof, perfect for homes with pets. They come in many styles, so you can find the perfect look without giving up on practicality.

Engineered Hardwood vs. Solid Hardwood

Hardwood flooring has two main types: engineered and solid.

Engineered hardwood is more resistant to moisture and less likely to warp. It's a better choice for pet owners. But, both need more care than LVP or LVT.

Pet-Friendly Carpet Solutions

If you like carpet, look for pet-friendly options. Performance ones work perfectly. These carpets are stain-resistant and easy to clean. They're made to handle pets well, with special treatments to reduce odors and prevent stains.

Ceramic & Porcelain Tile Benefits

Ceramic and porcelain Tiles are great for pet owners. They're resistant to scratches and moisture, perfect for busy areas and homes with pets. Make sure they're installed right for the best results.

Installation Tips for Maximum Durability

Proper installation is crucial for durable flooring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and consider a pro if needed. Regular cleaning and checks will also help your flooring last longer.

🚫 What to Avoid:

Softwood like pine — easy to dent and scratch
Unsealed or glossy hardwood
High-pile or shag rugs — fur traps and nearly impossible to clean

Furniture Materials That Stand Up to Pets

Choosing the right furniture materials is key to a pet-friendly home. It should be both beautiful and functional. Think about how your pets might wear down your furniture.

Smart Picks:

Performance fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella, Revolution, etc.): Stain-resistant, moisture-repellent, and odor-resistant. Perfect for sofas, armchairs, and pet beds.
Microfiber: A budget-friendly option that resists stains, holds up to scratching, and is easy to clean.
Leather: Looks great, wipes clean, and doesn’t trap pet hair. Just be aware it can scratch — go for distressed or matte finishes if you want to hide marks. Use a leather conditioner or protector to make it last longer.
For a more conscious and animal-friendly alternative, Vegan Leather is a stylish and practical option. Made from synthetic or plant-based materials, it offers the luxurious look of leather without the ethical concerns, and it's often easier to clean and maintain

🚫 What to Avoid:

Velvet, silk, and chenille — delicate and attract hair like a magnet
Loose weaves that can snag claws or trap dander
Tip: Add washable Throws to your sofa or chairs. They protect your upholstery, and you can toss them in the wash when needed.

Metal and Wood Furniture Considerations

Metal and wood furniture can also fit well in pet-friendly homes. For metal, choose sturdy pieces that pets won't damage. For wood, pick hardwoods like oak or maple. They resist scratches and damage better.

Pet-Friendly Bedding and Linens

Picking the right bedding and linens is key. Pets shed, drool, and sometimes have accidents. So, it's important to choose materials that are durable and easy to clean.

Stain-Resistant Bedding Materials

Bedding with stain-resistant materials is a big help. Look for fabrics with stain-resistant coatings or made from materials like microfiber. These can handle accidents and are simple to clean, keeping your bedding fresh.

Washable Throw Blankets and Pillows

Washable throw blankets and pillows are essential for pet owners. Choose materials that can be machine washed and dried without losing their shape or softness. This makes cleaning up after pets easier and keeps your home clean.

Easy Pick: Waterproof Blanket for Pets

Protective Covers and Layers

Using protective covers and layers on your bedding adds extra protection. These covers can be easily removed and washed, keeping your bedding safe from pet hair, dander, and accidents.

Layering Strategies for Maximum Protection

Layering your bedding can offer more protection. Start with a mattress protector, then washable sheets, and finish with a comforter or duvet cover. This layered approach makes cleaning and maintaining your bedding easier, even with pets around.

Choosing the right materials and using protective measures helps you enjoy a cozy and stylish home with your pets. Remember, the secret to a pet-friendly home is picking durable, easy-to-clean bedding and linens.

Tip: Avoid linen and silk in your main bedding setup if your pet sheds or drools. They’re harder to clean and tend to show wear faster.

If you are looking for bed a cozy doggy Bed, check out this amazing Washable Calming Donut Bed. There are 7 sizes & 18 colors available. ❤️

Walls That Stay Clean (Even When They’re Wagged On)

Paw prints, tail flicks, nose smudges — yes, even your walls need to be carefully chosen with pets around.

What Works:

Satin paint finish: Easier to wipe down than matte, but still look soft and stylish.
Scrubbable paint formulas: Many paints today are labeled “washable” — a must for high-traffic areas.
Vinyl or coated wallpapers: Wallpaper can work in pet-friendly homes too! Pick vinyl-coated wallpapers or non-woven wallpapers. They're better at handling moisture and cleaning than old-school wallpaper and are surprisingly stylish.
Install wainscoting or decorative wall paneling in entryways, mudrooms, or hallways where messes are more likely, for extra protection (and character)

🚫 What to Avoid:
Matte or flat paints — they’re harder to clean and stain easily.

Application Techniques for Longevity

Right application is crucial for lasting wall coverings and paint. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying. A primer can also help get a smooth finish and boost durability.

Window Treatments That Are Safe & Cleanable

Window treatments might not be top of mind, but they’re a common spot for pet damage. For pet owners, picking window treatments that look good and are safe is key. It helps make your home welcoming and safe for everyone.

When picking window treatments, think about how they look and work. This is even more important in homes with pets. The right treatments can make your home look better while keeping it safe and lasting long.

Cordless Blinds for Pet Safety

One big safety worry for pet owners is cords on blinds. Cordless blinds are a great fix, as they remove the danger of pets getting caught. They also make your home look cleaner and more organized.

Easy Pick: Cordless Roller Shades for Windows

Durable Curtain Materials

Choosing the right material for curtains is important. Go for durable fabrics that can handle pet wear and tear. Microfiber or performance fabrics are good choices because they resist stains and are easy to clean.

Easy-to-Clean Window Covering Options

For pet owners, it's crucial to have window treatments that are easy to clean. Look for ones with parts that can be taken off and washed. This makes keeping your home clean and healthy easy.

Pet-Proofing Installation Methods

To make your window treatments even safer for pets, think about how they're installed. Make sure the installation is secure and pets can't easily mess with it. Some makers offer pet-proofing installation services to help keep your home safe.

Final Thoughts: Creating a Stylish and Pet-Proof Home

Being a pet owner can make decorating your home a bit tricky. But, with the right pet owners' home decor ideas and suggested materials for home lovers with pets, you can make a stylish and pet-friendly space.

When picking materials and furniture, think about how they'll hold up with pets around. Go for durable, easy-to-clean items that match your style. Keeping up with regular maintenance is also key to a clean and beautiful home.

By following these tips, you can make a home that looks great and is pet-friendly. Choosing the right materials and decor means you'll have a beautiful and functional space. You and your pets will love spending time together in your stylish home.

📘 Need more guidance on creating a safe, smart, pet-friendly home?

Check out my ebook: “Protect Your Pup! Hidden Home Dangers Every Dog Lover Needs to Know & Fix”.

It’s full of simple Design Solutions, Safety Tips, and Space-planning Ideas for dog-loving households.

👉 Download it here and start making your home safer and more stylish — one paw at a time.