Have A Pet? You Need To Know This Pool Noodle Hack

If you’ve got a pet who loves to perch by the window, you probably know the damage those little claws can do. Scratched sills, chipped paint, even nail marks on the glass. It’s frustrating, especially when they’re just trying to enjoy the view. That’s where this simple, inexpensive hack comes in. A pool noodle, of all things, can help save your windows and your sanity. Here’s what to do.

How It Works

Cut a pool noodle to fit your windowsill, slice it lengthwise, and slip it over the edge. It acts like a bumper, giving your pet a soft surface to rest on while keeping their nails away from the wood or glass. The foam is thick enough to absorb pressure but light enough to stay in place on its own. It’s also easy to remove for cleaning or if guests come over. It won’t fix existing scratches, but it’ll stop new ones from showing up.

A dog with its front paws on a windowsill so it can look out the window.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

Why It Helps

It’s not just about saving the windowsill. Many pets scratch out of boredom, or as a way to get a better grip when jumping up. When the surface is slippery or hard, they dig in and leave marks behind. The soft texture of a pool noodle takes that urge away. Pets often stop scratching when the resistance changes. You might find them spending more time quietly looking out the window, and less time digging at it.

A cat sitting on a windowsill, about to paw at the blinds.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

Uses Your Leftovers

If you only need a short piece of the pool noodle, don’t toss the rest. Pool noodles can be used around the house in other pet-friendly ways. Line the edges of crate doors to prevent loud clanging. Wrap them around furniture legs to stop chewing or head-bumping. You can even cut small rings to use under food bowls to keep them from sliding. They’re lightweight, safe, and cheap to replace.

A close photo of a collection of colorful pool noodles.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

Related Articles

Sometimes, the simplest ideas solve the biggest annoyances. A pool noodle won’t fix everything, but it’s a smart and easy way to protect your space from your well-meaning, surely, pet. It’s affordable, quick to try, and easy to adjust. If you’re tired of scratched windowsills or noisy nails on glass, this one’s worth a shot.