How to Prepare Your Home for a Pet Sitter... and Avoid Fridge Regret

When you welcome a pet sitter into your home through TrustedHousesitters.com, you’re not just handing over the leash — you’re sharing your home, your pets, and a slice of your daily life. A little preparation goes a long way in helping your sitter feel comfortable and confident while you’re away (and keeping your pets happy too).

After years of pet sitting, I’ve noticed a few patterns — let’s call them recurring household quirks — that can make or break the experience. Here’s your friendly insider’s guide to prepping for your next sitter — complete with humor, honesty, and a sprinkle of ‘please-don’t-make-me-dig-through-that-fridge’ realness.

1. The Refrigerator Reality Check 🧊

If you haven’t looked in your fridge since before the last holiday, now’s the time. Sitters don’t need a perfectly curated fridge, but a little space is always appreciated. Clearing a small shelf or drawer lets us store our groceries without accidentally pushing your leftovers into the archaeological layer.

Bonus points for tossing expired condiments (you know, the mustard that’s seen two presidents). If you wouldn’t eat it, neither would your sitter — and it saves everyone from that awkward ‘uh… where do I put my salad dressing?’ moment.

2. Pet Bowls: The Unsung Heroes of Hygiene 🥣

Let’s be real — your dog doesn’t care if his water bowl has a few streaks. But we do. Please give the food and water bowls a quick wash before you leave. Not only does it prevent unwanted odors and bacteria, but it sets the tone for a clean, cared-for environment.

3. Soap That’s Actually Soap 🧼

You’d be surprised how many homes have sinks stocked with what I call the mystery liquid — a diluted, questionable hand soap that smells like ‘generic citrus disappointment.’ Please make sure there’s a decent supply of full-strength, antibacterial soap at sinks. It’s a small thing, but it keeps everyone healthy — humans and pets alike.

4. Paper Towels: The Pet Sitter’s Best Friend 🧻

Spills happen. Paw prints happen. Cat hair… happens everywhere. Having a healthy supply of paper towels makes cleaning up quick and easy.

5. Drinking Water Matters 💧

If your home doesn’t have filtered water, consider leaving a pitcher of filtered water or bottled supply for your sitter. It’s one of those kindnesses that instantly makes someone feel thought of — and it prevents that ‘Is this safe to drink?’ hesitation.

6. Beyond Clean: The Comfort and Safety Touches 🏡

These are often overlooked, but they make a huge difference:

• A clean set of sheets and towels (nothing fancy, just fresh)

• Clear Wi-Fi info and house rules written down

• A note with emergency contacts — vet, plumber, neighbor

• Pet routines in plain language (Milo gets dinner at 6, but thinks he’s starving at 5’)

• Extra trash bags, lightbulbs, and basic cleaning supplies in easy reach

✅ Quick “Pet Sitter Prep” Checklist

☐ Clear a shelf or drawer in the fridge

☐ Toss expired condiments

☐ Clean pet bowls

☐ Leave usable hand soap and paper towels

☐ Provide filtered or bottled water

☐ Fresh sheets and towels

☐ Wi-Fi password visible

☐ Emergency contact info

☐ Pet routines & quirks written down

🐕 The Takeaway

Pet sitters want your home and pets to feel well cared for — just as you would. A bit of prep makes your sitter’s stay smoother and keeps your pets relaxed and happy while you’re away. So before you head out, take ten minutes to tidy, toss, and top off those essentials. Your sitter (and your fridge) will thank you.

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