ᐅ What is the best way to clean Ikea Pax wardrobes when there are pets in the house?

Created on: 22 Feb 2015 08:36
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Laadrien
Hello everyone,

I have already done some research on this topic but would like to gather your specific experiences and tips here in the forum. I own an Ikea Pax wardrobe, which I need to clean regularly. Since I have several pets – two cats and a small dog – cleaning the wardrobe fronts and interiors is especially important because pet hair and skin particles tend to stick easily.

My specific question is: What is the best way to clean an Ikea Pax wardrobe if you have pets in the house, without damaging or wearing out the surfaces too much?

I am looking for methods that are hygienic enough to reduce pet odors and allergens, but still gentle enough to prevent the painted or laminated surfaces from becoming dull or damaged.

Which cleaning products, techniques, or tools can you recommend?

Thanks in advance for your help!
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Rosan
22 Feb 2015 11:27
One tip: Avoid alcohol-based cleaners, as they won’t work. It’s better to use warm water with dish soap. If you want a scent, add a few drops of essential oil to the water, for example, lavender. However, use it sparingly.
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Morgan
22 Feb 2015 12:05
I completely understand the concerns about pets and their fur, as I have two cats and a dog myself. It can be frustrating when fur constantly sticks to the furniture and you’re unsure if the cleaning product scents might be harmful to the animals.

From my experience, prevention alongside proper cleaning is important—for example, placing a blanket near the wardrobe where the pets can rest. This helps reduce the amount of fur on the Pax.

An air purifier in the room can also help reduce allergens. If possible, this makes daily cleaning easier and more comfortable for both people and pets.

Regarding cleaning products, I often use child-friendly cleaners that are very mild and biodegradable. Pets tend to have much fewer allergic reactions to these.

You’ve raised a very important point with your question, one that isn’t often discussed in many forums.
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dota57
23 Feb 2015 07:34
I would like to add that with Ikea Pax, the edges and joints are particularly vulnerable to moisture. Even when cleaning thoroughly with a damp cloth, caution is advised—do not let any liquid sit on the edges.

There are also special furniture care products designed for regular maintenance, suitable for lacquered surfaces, which leave a light protective layer.

I personally use a pH-neutral cleaner that is both mild and antibacterial. This reduces odors and ensures hygienic cleanliness without damaging the surfaces.

If there are pets in the house, it is also recommended to regularly vacuum the furniture contours or use a lint roller. This removes most of the hair before wiping the surfaces with moisture.
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LEMAN
23 Feb 2015 09:47
Big topic! I love my PAX too and I have a cat 🙂

I swear by microfiber cloths and wiping once a week with a mild vinegar cleaner diluted 1:5. Acid works great against pet odors and disinfects at the same time without damaging the surface! 💪
dota57 schrieb:
I personally use a pH-neutral cleaner that is both mild and antibacterial.

Yes, exactly! That protects the furniture and makes hygiene easier.

If possible: open the windows, a bit of fresh air works wonders for removing pet odors!

Here’s another tip: I sometimes use a lint roller before cleaning – it catches all the cat hair. Super easy!
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Laadrien
23 Feb 2015 11:15
LEMAN schrieb:
I swear by microfiber cloths and wiping once a week with a mild vinegar cleaner diluted 1:5. The acidity works great against pet odors and disinfects at the same time without damaging the surface!

Thank you all very much, this really helps me!

Regarding vinegar: I’ll start cautiously with the dilution to avoid risking stains on the white lacquer.

And I really like the idea of removing hair with a lint roller or vacuum before damp cleaning. I think I’ll make that part of my routine.

Thanks for all the tips, and it seems there really are very mild cleaners (pH-neutral or diluted vinegar), and regular vacuuming is essential when you have pets.

Maybe someone can also share advice about the interior surfaces? They are usually melamine-coated, and I wonder if different cleaning agents are better suited for them compared to the exterior fronts.

Thanks again!