Having a dog as part of your household can bring immense joy and companionship, but it also presents some challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining a clean and fresh-smelling home.
One common issue many pet owners face is the persistent dog smell that can cling to furniture, especially couches.
This guide on how to get dog smell out of couch will provide you with practical and effective methods to eliminate dog odors from your couch, ensuring your living space remains inviting and pleasant for both human and canine family members.
What is Causing the Dog Smell on your Couch?
Before we dive into ways to get rid of dog smell, it is essential to understand what is causing the odor in the first place. There are a few common reasons for the lingering dog smell on your couch, including:
Dog Hair and Dander:
Dogs constantly shed hair and dander, which can easily get trapped in the fabric fibers of your couch.
Dirt and Debris:
Your dog may track dirt, mud, or other outdoor debris onto the couch, causing an unpleasant odor.
Urine or Saliva:
Accidents happen, and if your dog has had any accidents on the couch or frequently licks it, this can contribute to a foul smell.
Now that we know what can cause the dog to smell on your couch let’s explore some ways to get rid of it.
8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Get Dog Smell Out of Couch
Step 1: Vacuum Regularly
The first step to eliminate dog smells from your couch is to vacuum it thoroughly and regularly.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to reach deep into the fabric fibers. This will help remove dog hair, dander, dirt, and other debris that can contribute to the odor.
Make sure to vacuum every part of the couch, including the cushions, armrests, and crevices. Doing this at least once a week can significantly reduce the buildup of odor-causing particles.
Step 2: Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a powerful yet natural deodorizer that can help neutralize odors effectively. To use baking soda on your couch, sprinkle a generous amount over the entire surface, paying extra attention to areas where your dog tends to spend the most time.
Allow the baking soda to sit for at least 15-20 minutes, as this gives it enough time to absorb and neutralize the odors. For more persistent smells, you can leave the baking soda on the couch overnight.
After the baking soda has had time to work its magic, vacuum it up thoroughly. This simple step can leave your couch smelling fresh and clean.
Step 3: Try White Vinegar
White vinegar is another household item that can help eliminate dog smells from your couch. Its acidic nature helps break down and neutralize the molecules that cause unpleasant odors.
To use white vinegar, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
Spritz this mixture over your couch, focusing on areas with the strongest odor. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture for a more pleasant scent.
Step 4: Use an Enzymatic Cleaner
If your dog has had an accident on the couch, it’s essential to clean it up promptly. However, regular cleaning products may not be effective in removing all traces of urine or saliva that can contribute to a lingering smell.
Instead, try using an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet messes. These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins in urine and saliva, effectively eliminating any odors. Follow the instructions on the product carefully for best results.
Step 5: Steam Clean
Steam cleaning is another effective method to get rid of dog smells from your couch.
This deep-cleaning technique uses hot water and steam to penetrate deep into the fabric fibers, removing dirt, debris, and odors.
You can either hire a professional steam cleaning service or rent a steam cleaner and do it yourself. Just make sure to use a pet-safe cleaning solution, as some products may contain chemicals that can be harmful to your dog.
Step 6: Sun-dry
Sun-drying your couch cushions and covers can be an effective way to eliminate dog odors naturally. Sunlight has natural deodorizing and antibacterial properties that can help break down unpleasant smells and sanitize fabric.
To sun-dry your couch, remove any removable cushions and covers and place them in direct sunlight for several hours.
Make sure to turn them periodically to ensure even exposure. If your couch doesn’t have removable parts, you can move it to a sunny area of your home or use outdoor space, if feasible.
Just be sure to check the weather forecast and avoid leaving it out if there’s a chance of rain or high humidity. Sun-drying not only helps in odor elimination but also leaves your couch feeling fresh and revitalized.
Step 7: Use a Professional Odor Eliminator
If you’ve tried home remedies and the dog smell still lingers, it might be time to bring in a professional odor eliminator. These products are specifically formulated to tackle stubborn pet odors and are often much stronger than household items like baking soda or white vinegar.
Look for a professional-grade pet odor eliminator that is safe for use on furniture and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Typically, you will need to spray the product generously over the affected areas of your couch and let it sit for the recommended amount of time. Some products may require a light scrub or blotting with a clean cloth to penetrate more deeply into the fabric fibers.
Afterward, allow your couch to dry completely. Using a professional odor eliminator can be a highly effective way to eradicate even the most persistent dog smells, leaving your couch smelling fresh and clean.
Step 8: Establish Rules for Your Dog
Finally, to prevent the dog smell from returning, it’s essential to establish some rules for your dog when it comes to using the couch.
This could include not allowing them on the couch at all or only allowing them on specific parts with a designated blanket or cover. You can also train your dog to stay off the couch when you’re not present and provide them with their own comfortable space nearby.
By regularly vacuuming, using natural deodorizers, cleaning up accidents promptly, and establishing rules for your dog, you can keep your couch smelling fresh and pleasant for both you and your furry friend. With these steps on how to get dog smell out of couch, you can enjoy snuggling up on the couch with your dog without having to worry about unpleasant odors.
Additional Tips
- Regularly grooming your dog can also help reduce the amount of hair, dander, and dirt that they bring onto the couch.
- Placing a towel or blanket over areas where your dog likes to sit can provide an extra layer of protection for your couch.
- Consider investing in a couch cover that is easy to remove and wash when needed.
- If possible, open windows and use fans to increase air circulation while using any cleaning products on your couch.
- Avoid using products with strong scents to cover up dog smells, as this can be overwhelming for both you and your dog. Instead, focus on completely eliminating the odors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Use Baking Soda on Leather or Suede Couches?
A: It’s best to avoid using baking soda on leather or suede as it may cause discoloration or damage to the material. Instead, consult a professional cleaner for these types of couches.
Q: How Often Should I Clean My Couch to Prevent Dog Smells?
A: It’s recommended to vacuum your couch at least once a week and spot clean any spills or accidents promptly. You can also use natural deodorizers like baking soda or white vinegar every 1-2 months for maintenance.
Q: Can I Use Regular Cleaning Products on My Couch?
A: It’s important to check the labels of cleaning products before using them on your couch, as some may contain ingredients that can be harmful to your dog. Look for pet-safe and non-toxic options whenever possible.
Conclusion
Removing dog smells from your couch requires a combination of tried-and-true methods and consistent maintenance.
By following the steps on how to get dog smell out of couch outlined above—ranging from simple household solutions like baking soda and white vinegar to more powerful options like enzymatic cleaners and professional odor eliminators—you can effectively eliminate unpleasant odors.
Additionally, sun-drying, steam cleaning, and setting clear boundaries for your dog can help maintain a fresh and inviting home environment. Remember, regular cleaning and grooming routines not only keep your furniture clean but also enhance the overall comfort and hygiene of your living space.
With these strategies in place, both you and your furry friend can enjoy a cozy and fresh-smelling couch.
