YOU MISSED A SPOT

If you have a pet, these often overlooked zones might be due for some extra attention.

- ELLA FIELD

1. Air and HVAC

An air purifier—especially one with a HEPA filter—can help reduce the dust, dander, and fur in the air, but you also need to address the places they land. Clean your air filter (or replace it per manufacturer’s instructions) and change your furnace filter at least once a month. If it’s visibly dirty when you change it, consider doing so more frequently. A dirty filter makes HVAC systems less efficient and can cause them to fail over time. Vacuum air vents and returns when they start to look dusty, every six months or so.

GO THE EXTRA MILE: Take vents out and vacuum or dust the backs too.

2. Windows and Doors

If your guard dog leads with their nose, don’t forget to wipe down windows and glass doors—both inside and out—as needed to remove nose prints and saliva.