How to Get Dog Smell Out of Couch?
In a nutshell, these are all the different ways to freshen up your couch and get rid of dog smell!
- Vacuum: Remove hair and dander by vacuuming thoroughly.
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle, let sit, then vacuum to absorb odors.
- Vinegar Spray: Mix vinegar and water, lightly spray, and air dry.
- Fabric Freshener: Use a pet-safe spray to neutralize smells.
- Enzyme Cleaner: Break down odor-causing proteins with an enzyme cleaner.
- Steam Clean: Deep clean with steam if your couch allows.
- Activated Charcoal: Place charcoal bags near the couch to absorb smells.
- Vinegar Bowls: Set bowls of vinegar around to absorb odors.
- Wash Covers: Wash removable covers with pet-safe detergent.
- Ventilate: Open windows to let fresh air reduce odors.
1. Vacuum Thoroughly
Begin by giving your couch a good vacuum. Use a handheld vacuum or an upholstery attachment on your regular vacuum cleaner to reach all surfaces of the couch, including crevices, under cushions, and along the seams. Focus on areas where your dog tends to sit, as these spots are likely to have more hair, dirt, and dander. Vacuuming removes loose debris that can contribute to odor, making other odor-fighting methods more effective.
2. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is an excellent odor absorber. Generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire couch, covering all areas, especially where your dog typically lounges. Allow it to sit for at least 15–30 minutes (or even overnight if the odor is strong) to give it time to neutralize the smells. Once the baking soda has done its job, vacuum it up thoroughly. Repeat as needed for particularly stubborn odors.
3. Vinegar Spray Solution
Create a natural odor-fighting solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the couch with the solution—don’t oversaturate, as too much moisture can damage the fabric. Allow the vinegar to air dry on the couch. Although the vinegar smell may be strong initially, it will dissipate as it dries, taking the dog odor with it. This method works well for neutralizing smells naturally.
4. Use a Fabric Freshener
Pet-safe fabric fresheners are designed to be gentle on pets while effectively tackling odors. Choose a spray that is specifically labeled as pet-safe and suitable for upholstery. Lightly spray the couch and let it air dry. Fabric fresheners can be a quick way to add freshness to your couch and mask lingering dog odors. Just be sure to follow product instructions for best results.
5. Try an Enzyme Cleaner
Enzyme cleaners are specially formulated to break down the proteins in pet odors, making them a powerful tool for tackling dog smells. These are especially effective if your dog has had accidents on the couch. Apply the enzyme cleaner according to the instructions, focusing on any problem areas. Let the cleaner sit for the recommended time to allow the enzymes to do their work, then blot with a cloth and allow to air dry.
6. Steam Clean the Couch
If your couch’s fabric can handle it, steam cleaning is a great way to deep clean and refresh upholstery. Use a steam cleaner or rent one for this job, and follow the instructions for upholstery settings. The heat from the steam will help lift dirt, oils, and odors from the fabric. After steam cleaning, allow the couch to dry completely to prevent any musty smells from developing.
7. Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a natural odor absorber that works well in enclosed spaces. Place a few small bags or containers of activated charcoal under the couch cushions or nearby, where it won’t be disturbed by pets. Leave it there for a few days to help absorb odors from the couch. Unlike air fresheners, activated charcoal doesn’t mask smells; it absorbs them, leaving the air and couch fresher.
8. Place Bowls of Vinegar Nearby
Placing bowls of white vinegar around the room or near the couch can help absorb lingering odors in the air. Leave the bowls overnight or for a few hours during the day. The vinegar will help neutralize airborne smells, freshening up the area around the couch. Just remember to keep the bowls out of reach of pets.
9. Wash Removable Covers
If your couch has removable covers, wash them according to the care instructions. Use a pet-safe detergent and consider adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to help neutralize odors. Allow the covers to air dry or dry on a gentle cycle. Washing the covers will remove embedded pet odors and give the couch a fresh, clean scent.
10. Ventilate the Area
Fresh air is a simple but effective way to reduce odors. Open windows near the couch and, if possible, place a fan nearby to help circulate air. Ventilating the area helps eliminate trapped odors and promotes a fresh-smelling room. For best results, do this regularly to prevent odors from building up over time.
Read More:
- How to Get Dog Pee Out of Carpet And Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh and Clean
- Questions to Ask When Adopting a Dog
- Why Does My Dog Have Eye Boogers?
- Rainy Days and Muddy Paws – How to Handle Regular Walks with Your Dog?
How to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of a Couch
Dog pee on the couch can leave a lingering smell if not treated promptly, but here’s a step-by-step guide to tackle it effectively:
- Blot Up the Urine Immediately: As soon as you notice the accident, use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot up as much urine as possible. Press down firmly to absorb the moisture, but avoid rubbing, as this can push the urine further into the fabric.
- Apply Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda generously over the affected area. Baking soda is excellent for absorbing both moisture and odor. Leave it on for at least 15–30 minutes, then vacuum it up thoroughly. If the smell persists, repeat this step.
- Use a Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly spray the urine spot on the couch. The vinegar will neutralize odors, and the smell will dissipate as it dries. Let the solution sit for about 15 minutes, then blot it up with a clean cloth.
- Apply an Enzyme Cleaner: For more stubborn smells, use an enzyme-based pet cleaner specifically designed to break down urine proteins. These cleaners target the source of the odor and help prevent your dog from marking the same spot again. Follow the product instructions, allowing the solution to sit for the recommended time, and then blot with a cloth.
- Rinse and Blot Again: If needed, spray the area with plain water to rinse out any remaining vinegar or enzyme cleaner residue. Blot with a clean cloth to absorb as much moisture as possible.
- Air Dry Completely: Allow the couch to dry completely, ideally by opening windows or using a fan to increase airflow. Avoid using heat, as this can set any remaining odor into the fabric.
- Repeat if Necessary: If the smell persists, repeat the process, especially the enzyme cleaner step, as it may take a few applications to completely remove deep-set odors.
Consider Professional Cleaning Services
When home remedies aren’t enough to fully eliminate dog odors from your couch, hiring a professional cleaning service can be an effective deep-clean solution. Professional cleaners have specialized equipment and cleaning products that can penetrate the upholstery, effectively removing pet odors and bacteria that household cleaners may miss.
They often use high-powered steam cleaning or eco-friendly, pet-safe solutions to target odor-causing particles, leaving your couch fresh and thoroughly sanitized. While this option may require an investment, it can be worth it for those stubborn, lingering smells that just won’t go away. Professional cleaning services are especially useful if you have multiple pets, recurring odor issues, or upholstery that requires a deeper cleaning than you can achieve at home.
Meet Sofi Dzneladze, a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience dedicated to the well-being and care of our furry companions. Sofi’s expertise spans dog grooming, training, and behavior management, making her a trusted authority in the field of canine care. Sofi began her journey with a passion for understanding dogs on a deeper level: their appearance, behavior, needs, and unique personalities.
