When you bring a new furry friend into your home, you’re not just gaining a companion – you’re also gaining a potential source of unpleasant odors. Dogs, especially those with thick coats or sensitive skin, can leave behind a lingering smell on your furniture that’s difficult to eliminate. Whether it’s a lingering scent of wet dog or a pungent aroma from a particularly stinky spot, getting dog smell out of furniture can be a challenge. But don’t worry, with the right techniques and cleaning products, you can banish those pesky odors and keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
Why Remove Dog Smell from Furniture?
Furniture can be a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew, which can exacerbate dog odors and make them harder to remove. Additionally, if left unchecked, dog smell can permeate other areas of your home, making it difficult to eliminate. By removing dog smell from furniture, you can create a cleaner, healthier environment for both you and your pet.
Common Causes of Dog Smell on Furniture
There are several reasons why your dog might be leaving behind an unpleasant smell on your furniture. Some common causes include:
- Accidents: If your dog has an accident on your furniture, the smell can linger long after the stain is gone.
- Sweat and oils: Dogs have scent glands on their skin, which can transfer oils and sweat to your furniture, causing unpleasant odors.
- Dirt and dander: Dogs shed and produce dander, which can accumulate on your furniture and create an unpleasant smell.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the best methods for removing dog smell from furniture, including cleaning products, techniques, and tips for preventing future odors.
How To Get Dog Smell Out Of Furniture
As a dog owner, you’re likely no stranger to the pungent aroma that can linger on your furniture after your furry friend has had an accident or simply been sitting on it. Removing dog smell from furniture can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and products, it’s definitely possible. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to get dog smell out of furniture, from natural methods to commercial products.
Identifying the Source of the Smell
Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to identify the source of the smell. Is it coming from a specific area, such as a stain or a urine spot? Or is it a general odor that permeates the entire piece of furniture? Understanding the source of the smell will help you target your cleaning efforts more effectively.
Here are some common sources of dog smell on furniture:
- Urine stains
- Feces
- Sweat
- Dander
- Dead skin cells
Natural Methods for Removing Dog Smell
Before reaching for commercial products, try using natural methods to remove dog smell from your furniture. Here are some effective techniques: (See Also: Is First Watch Dog Friendly)
Baking Soda and Vacuum: Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the affected area and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour. Then, vacuum up the baking soda using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. This method is effective for removing urine stains and odors.
White Vinegar and Water: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the affected area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel. This method is effective for removing general odors and stains.
Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as lavender, tea tree, and lemon, have natural deodorizing properties. Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it onto the affected area. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Commercial Products for Removing Dog Smell
If natural methods aren’t effective, you may need to resort to commercial products. Here are some popular options:
Enzyme-Based Cleaners: Enzyme-based cleaners, such as Nature’s Miracle or Biokleen Bac-Out, contain enzymes that break down protein-based stains and odors, including urine and feces. Follow the product instructions for best results.
Odor-Absorbing Sprays: Odor-absorbing sprays, such as Febreze or Outward Hound Oko Cat & Dog Odor Eliminator, are designed to neutralize and eliminate odors. Spray the product onto the affected area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Preventing Future Odors
To prevent dog smell from building up on your furniture in the future, follow these tips:
Clean Up Accidents Immediately: If your dog has an accident on your furniture, clean it up immediately to prevent the stain and odor from setting in.
Use a Pet-Friendly Fabric Protector: Apply a pet-friendly fabric protector to your furniture to repel stains and odors. This will make cleaning up accidents easier and reduce the risk of permanent damage.
Regularly Vacuum and Clean: Regularly vacuum and clean your furniture to remove dirt, dander, and other debris that can contribute to odors.
Recap
Removing dog smell from furniture can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and products, it’s definitely possible. By identifying the source of the smell, using natural methods, and resorting to commercial products if necessary, you can effectively eliminate dog smell from your furniture. Remember to clean up accidents immediately, use a pet-friendly fabric protector, and regularly vacuum and clean to prevent future odors.
Here are five FAQs related to “How To Get Dog Smell Out Of Furniture”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes dog smell on furniture?
Dog smell on furniture is caused by the oils and pheromones produced by a dog’s skin and fur. These oils can transfer to the fabric and upholstery of your furniture, leaving behind a strong and unpleasant odor.
How do I remove dog smell from fabric furniture?
To remove dog smell from fabric furniture, start by vacuuming the area thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris. Then, mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth. Repeat the process as needed until the smell is gone.
Can I use baking soda to remove dog smell from furniture?
Yes, baking soda is a great natural odor absorber that can be used to remove dog smell from furniture. Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the affected area, let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour, and then vacuum it up. You can also make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the area before letting it sit and then vacuuming it up.
How do I remove dog smell from leather furniture?
Removing dog smell from leather furniture requires a bit more care than fabric furniture. Start by vacuuming the area thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris. Then, apply a leather cleaner specifically designed for removing odors, and let it sit for the recommended amount of time before wiping it clean with a soft cloth. You can also try using a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, but be sure to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it won’t damage the leather.
How can I prevent dog smell from returning to my furniture?
To prevent dog smell from returning to your furniture, make sure to clean up any accidents immediately, and consider using a fabric protector or odor-repelling spray on your furniture. You can also try using a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture in the air, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can contribute to dog smell. Finally, consider having your furniture professionally cleaned and deodorized on a regular basis to keep it smelling fresh and clean.