How to Get Dog Smell Out of Couch: Easy Steps for a Fresh Sofa

This comprehensive guide outlines practical strategies for eliminating pesky dog odors from your couch, ensuring a fresh and inviting living space.

Table of Contents

Vacuum Thoroughly

Start with removing cushions and all removable parts from your couch to reach as much surface area as possible. Use the crevice tool on your vacuum cleaner to get into the tight spaces where pet hair and dander love to collect. Pay particular attention to the gaps where the back meets the seat, as well as the armrests, which often collect oils from a dog’s fur.

Vacuuming not only helps to pick up hair and dander but also removes some of the odor-causing particles from the fabric. For couches with a woven or textured fabric, consider using an upholstery brush attachment to help agitate the fibers and release more debris. Make sure to empty the vacuum cleaner’s canister or change the bag afterward to prevent lingering smells from spreading back into your home.

Sprinkle Baking Soda On the Couch

Begin by lightly sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda over the entire surface of the couch. Ensure you pay particular attention to areas where your dog favors. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and will absorb unpleasant odors over time. If the scent is deeply embedded, you can leave the baking soda to sit overnight for maximum effectiveness.

The following day, use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to thoroughly remove the baking soda. Pass over each area several times to ensure all the powder is gone, as residue can attract moisture and potentially lead to mold or mildew.

For added freshness, consider mixing a few drops of essential oils like lavender or lemon with the baking soda before application. These natural scents offer a calming and clean aroma, contributing to a more pleasant smelling couch. Remember, though, to use pet-safe oils if your dog will be spending time on the furniture.

Mix Vinegar and Water Solution for Spot Cleaning

A solution of equal parts white vinegar and water can be an effective, natural cleaner for spot-treating your couch. The vinegar acts to neutralize odors while also providing antibacterial properties. Before applying, always test the solution on an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t affect the couch fabric’s color or texture.

Once you’ve confirmed the solution is safe for your couch, lightly spray the affected areas. Avoid soaking them, as excessive moisture can lead to mildew. After spraying, gently blot with a clean cloth to lift stains and odors. Allow the couch to air dry completely, ideally in a well-ventilated space or with the aid of a fan.

This spot treatment can be particularly useful for recent spills that are contributing to the overall dog smell.

Use a Fabric Freshener Designed for Pet Odors

Fabric fresheners specifically formulated for pet odors can be invaluable for maintaining a fresh-smelling couch. They contain compounds designed to neutralize odors rather than merely masking them. Here’s why and how you should consider using these products:

• Odor Neutralization: Unlike traditional air fresheners, pet odor eliminators break down and remove the source of the smell.
• Safety: Choose fresheners that are non-toxic and pet-safe to avoid any harm to your furry friends.
• Application: Lightly spray the fabric freshener on your couch surfaces, pillows, and cushions to keep your living space smelling clean.
• Enzymatic Options: Some fresheners contain enzymes that specifically target the proteins in pet odors, making them especially effective.

Remember to always test a small inconspicuous section of your couch fabric first to ensure the freshener does not discolor or damage the material.

Regularly Bathe and Groom Your Dog

Maintaining your dog’s hygiene is essential in controlling odors. Regular baths with pet-friendly shampoo can help minimize the oils and dander that contribute to that distinctive dog smell.

In between baths, using canine wipes can help remove dirt and freshen up their coat. Don’t forget about grooming; trimming fur, especially around the paws and backside, can prevent the accumulation of smells.

Pay attention to your dog’s nails, ears, and teeth as well because these areas can harbor bacteria that lead to unpleasant odors. Remember, a clean dog means a fresher smelling couch.

FAQ

What neutralizes the smell of dog?

Baking soda sprinkled over carpets, rugs, and furniture or apple cider vinegar used with laundry detergent in a washing machine can effectively neutralize the smell of a dog.

How do you deodorize a couch?

To deodorize a couch, generously sprinkle baking soda over its entire surface and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes, allowing it to absorb and neutralize any odors effectively.

How do you get fishy smell out of dog couch?

To eliminate a fishy smell from a dog couch, lightly sprinkle baking soda on the affected areas, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up or use a mix of 1 part apple cider vinegar and 3 parts water in a spray bottle on the upholstery.

How do you freshen a room that smells like dog?

To freshen a room that smells like a dog, sprinkle baking soda on fabrics, dog beds, and carpets, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe the area with a wet cloth or vacuum it to neutralize the pet odor.

What are the best cleaning solutions for removing pet odor from a leather sofa?

The best cleaning solutions for removing pet odor from a leather sofa include a mixture of white vinegar and water, baking soda, and commercially-made leather cleaners designed specifically for odor removal.

How can regular maintenance keep your fabric couch smelling fresh despite having dogs?

Regular maintenance, including vacuuming, spot cleaning, and using fabric refreshers, can keep your fabric couch smelling fresh even if you have dogs.

What are some effective natural remedies to eliminate dog smell from furniture?

Effective natural remedies to eliminate dog smell from furniture include using baking soda, vinegar, lemon, or enzymatic cleaners, alongside regular vacuuming.