How To Clean A Couch That Smells Like Dog? Eliminate Odors With These Easy Tips

There is nothing quite like the love of a furry friend. But, with that unconditional love often comes certain unsavory smells. If you’re a pet parent, then you understand the frustration and embarrassment that can come from having furniture that smells like your beloved pup.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to eliminate those pesky odors without having to toss out your couch altogether. In this article, we’ll show you some easy tips on how to clean a couch that smells like dog. Whether it’s urine, hair, or just that “doggy” smell, we’ve got you covered.

“It’s important to know that getting rid of the odor isn’t just about pleasing human noses – allowing the scent of urine or other organic matter to linger can actually attract pets back to the same spot.”

You don’t have to resort to harsh chemicals or expensive cleaning services to get rid of unpleasant smells either. With a few simple household items and a little elbow grease, your couch can be as good as new in no time.

So, if you’re tired of living with a stinky couch, read on for our top tips on eliminating unwanted pet odors from your favorite piece of furniture.

Identify the Source of the Smell

If your couch smells like a wet dog, it can be an unpleasant and embarrassing issue. Not only does it make your home less inviting, but it may lead to respiratory problems or allergies if not taken care of promptly. Therefore, finding out what’s causing the smell is critical in deciding how to clean it.

“The most important aspect in battling a smelly couch is identifying where the odor is coming from.” -Brittany Haas, owner of Elite Green Team Chem-Dry

Check for Spills and Stains

Dogs might leave accidents on the furniture occasionally. The urine’s odors will sink into the sofa’s cushioning, creating a nasty smell that lasts long after the spillage has been cleared up. When looking for dumps and spills that could have occurred, you should consider using ultraviolet light since these stains are hard to detect by simply eye observation alone.

“Urine is composed of some proteins that bacteria feed upon. Unless all organic material affected by the urine is taken away, bacteria will flourish every time liquids touch the contaminated area,” says Greg Colburn, franchise consultant at Hydro Clean Carpet & Restoration.

Look for Pet Hair and Dander

Dog hair and dander are tough to hide, and they’re also potent sources of pet smells. Pets tend to shed, leaving behind fur balls scattered around the house. They frequently get trapped in couches’ corners, seams, and upholstery fabric.

“Pet dander consists of tiny pieces of dead skin that mammals shed regularly,” states Dr. Billy Ward, Nashville-based veterinarian practicing at Bigger Road Veterinary Clinic. “Not just dogs, allergic individuals react to cat dander as well.”

Inspect for Mold and Mildew

If not properly ventilated, moisture will accumulate in rooms where dogs spend a lot of time, leading to mildew issues. On humid days or areas with high humidity levels to start with, mold develops quickly. Signs of mold development include dark spots on the material’s surface and mustiness smell that gets worse as time goes by.

“Mold grows anywhere where there is sufficient moisture,” confirms Scott Moore, owner of highly rated Cleaning Concepts – Franklin Floor Care & Janitorial Services located near Exeter N.H.. “A couch might be an ideal breeding ground for mildew if it is situated in a damp area.”

Consider Other Possible Causes

In addition to all of the previous sources, other common culprits causing your best pet companions to give off foul odors can vary from smoking habits within your home, to feet getting directly on the sofa, or vaporizing crispy foods when sitting next to the furniture.

“Sweating is often linked to stress, so anxious dogs may generate sweat,” says Dr. Wailani Sung, veterinarian at San Francisco SPCA and co-author of “The Veterinarians’ Guide to Your Dog’s Symptoms.”

• Cleaning Solution: The first step toward eliminating floor grime smells is using detergents and cleaning solutions that penetrate deep into the sofa’s fibers to dissolve sticky dirt and stains that have accumulated over time.
• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda liberally over every crevice and corner of the couch before spraying it down with enough vinegar to create a paste. Use a soft-bristled brush to massage the mixture into the fabric thoroughly, being careful not to harm the threads. Then vacuum everything up until the baking soda is no longer visible.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Fill an empty spray container halfway with hydrogen peroxide, add 20-25 drops of eucalyptus essential oil or peppermint extract for a natural scent boost, and shake well. Following that, mist it over any area where you detect distinct pet odors.
• Vinegar: Mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water in a dish, then dip a clean cloth into the mixture before applying it to your couch cushions. Before washing each of them with cool water, let the vinegar-and-water solution seep into just enough time to remove the discernable stain and musty odor from within. Vinegar effectively deodorizes by breaking down both the grime and bacteria that produce bad smells while evaporating quickly without leaving behind any residue.

Cleaning your sofa can be a complex challenge depending on how many pets live at home and their typical behaviors. It’s good practice to perform routine cleaning every six months, change the cushion linings once a year, use leather protectant sprays if applicable, and implement training guides for your furry friends as necessary. So, follow these methods we have recommended above to clean your dog-scented furniture safely and efficiently!

Vacuum the Couch Thoroughly

If you have a couch that smells like your dog, it’s important to start by thoroughly vacuuming it. This step will help remove any excess hair or dirt from the surface of the couch, which can contribute to the odor. Here are some tips for vacuuming your couch effectively:

Remove Any Loose Debris

Before you start using your vacuum cleaner, take a few minutes to pick up any loose debris from the couch. This might include toys, blankets, or food wrappers that your dog has left behind. Removing these items will make it easier for you to get rid of any unpleasant smells.

Use a Crevice Tool to Get into Tight Spaces

To really get your couch clean, it’s important to use a crevice tool, which is a small attachment that comes with most vacuum cleaners. You’ll want to use this tool to clean in between cushions and other tight spaces where pet hair and dirt can accumulate. Be sure to move the tool slowly back and forth to ensure that you’re getting everything.

Consider Using a Pet Hair Attachment

If your dog sheds a lot, you may want to consider investing in a pet hair attachment for your vacuum. These attachments are specifically designed to pick up pet hair and can be very effective at removing odors from your couch. To use a pet hair attachment, simply attach it to the end of your vacuum hose and run it over your couch.

“The best way to keep a couch smelling fresh is to vacuum it on a regular basis.” -Jenni T., cleaning expert

Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odors

Apply a Generous Amount of Baking Soda to the Couch

If you have a couch that smells like dog, using baking soda can help absorb any unpleasant odors. To begin, apply a generous amount of baking soda directly onto your couch. You may need more or less depending on the size of your couch and how strong the odor is.

Baking soda works as an absorbent material because it has millions of tiny pores that trap and neutralize smells effectively without using harsh chemicals. And not just that, it also removes moisture from the air hence reducing humidity levels in the room that further discourages bacterial growth and keep the fabric smelling fresh for a long time.

Leave the Baking Soda on the Couch for Several Hours

Once you’ve applied the baking soda to the entire couch, let it sit there for several hours. This will give the baking soda enough time to absorb any lingering odors in the couch’s cushions or fabric.

You should leave it for at least 3-4 hours for effective results but even longer periods are better. If possible, leaving it overnight would be highly beneficial. By morning you can see the absorptive properties of baking soda with your own eyes: the surface will feel dry, and powdery looking, meaning all odors, and excess moisture have absorbed into the powder.

Vacuum the Baking Soda Off the Couch

After letting the baking soda sit for some time, use a vacuum cleaner to remove it from your couch thoroughly. Be sure to clean up every last bit of baking soda residue, so none of it is left behind on your furniture.

A powerful suction handheld upright vacuum is ideal for removing any baking soda on the couch. Run the vacuum cleaner over the entire surface of the sofa, including the cushions paying close attention to corners and crevices where smell particles may hide.

Repeat the Process as Needed

If any odor still persists after you’ve taken these steps, repeat the process as needed until the scent completely disappears or becomes barely noticeable. However, if none of this works out for you and your dog friend keeps making the fragrance unbearable, it might be time to look into buying a new couch.

Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning your furniture, especially those derived from petroleum-based compounds and bleach products which can leave dangerous toxins that not only cause allergy and asthma attacks but are also unhealthy for you and your canine pet.

“Baking soda is great at absorbing unpleasant odors.” -Martha Stewart

Cleaning a couch with baking soda is an easy and cost-effective way to get rid of any unpleasant smells left behind by pets. By following these simple steps, you can safely clean and reduce bad odours while maintaining the quality and appearance of your furniture!

Apply a Vinegar Solution

Dog odor is an unpleasant experience that can reveal itself in many ways, including smelly furniture. A couch or sofa that smells like dog can be quite difficult to clean, but one thing is certain: vinegar works wonders in removing the smell.

Mix Equal Parts Water and Vinegar in a Spray Bottle

The first step in cleaning your couch with vinegar is to mix equal parts water and vinegar together in a spray bottle. This solution is versatile and can be used on any number of surfaces to remove pet odors, stains, and allergens.

“Vinegar is an excellent odor-neutralizing agent,” says Melissa Maker, author, and founder of Clean My Space, a housekeeping service. “It’s also completely safe for use around pets.”

If you don’t have a spray bottle handy, a bucket and sponge will suffice. Mix two cups of warm water with one tablespoon each of white vinegar and dish soap. Rub this mixture onto the affected area using a damp cloth or sponge.

Spray the Solution on the Affected Area

Once the solution has been adequately mixed, it is time to apply it to your couch. Begin by spot-cleaning the areas where your dog spends most of its time. If the entire couch requires attention, now is the time to do so.

Before spraying the vinegar solution directly onto the fabric, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the couch to make sure it won’t damage or discolor the material. Once you’re satisfied that the solution won’t harm the upholstery, generously spray the affected area until it is thoroughly covered.

Allow the vinegar solution to sit for at least 30 minutes before blotting it up with a clean, dry cloth. Repeat this process as necessary until the smell disappears.

“Vinegar works well on many surfaces because it’s anti-bacterial and mildly acidic,” says Becky Rapinchuk, author, and founder of Clean Mama. “It removes impurities and odors naturally without adding any synthetic chemicals to your home.”

For added freshness, sprinkle baking soda onto the couch before vacuuming it up after the cleaning process is complete. This will help eliminate any remaining pet odors that may still be lingering in the fabric fibers.

Vinegar is an affordable and effective way to clean a couch that smells like dog. By mixing equal parts water and vinegar together and applying the solution directly to the affected areas, you can effectively neutralize pet odor while keeping your furniture safe from harsh or harmful chemicals. With these steps in mind, you’ll be able to maintain a fresher, cleaner living environment while also keeping your furry friend happy and healthy!

Try an Enzyme Cleaner

If your sofa smells like dog, it’s time to take measures to get rid of the odor. One solution is using an enzyme cleaner. This type of cleaner breaks down organic compounds and neutralizes odors.

Choose an Enzyme Cleaner Specifically Designed for Upholstery

You can find various enzymatic cleaners on the market; however, not all of them are suitable for upholstery cleaning. When purchasing a cleaner for couches, always check that it is safe for the fabric material. Avoid using products designed for carpet or hard surfaces as they may be too harsh for your sofa.

“Always use cleaners specifically formulated for upholstery to avoid accidentally damaging your cushions and fabrics.” -Like Zebra

Follow the Instructions on the Bottle Carefully

Each product has its own instructions, so follow them carefully to achieve best results. Generally, you will need to spray the cleaner onto affected areas and let it sit for a specified amount of time before wiping away with a damp cloth. Some cleaners may require diluting with water first or come in different forms such as foams or gels. Ensure that you read each instruction before proceeding.

Test the Cleaner on a Small, Inconspicuous Area First

Before spraying your whole couch with the cleaner, test it out on a small area that won’t show staining but still matches your sofa’s fabric makeup. Apply a little bit of the cleaner on the inconspicuous part of the sofa—like the underside of the cushion — and wait to see if there are any adverse effects. If after waiting a reasonable amount of time – preferably overnight – nothing unusual has happened, proceed to clean the rest of the sofa accordingly.

“Before you clean any upholstered furniture, test a small, hidden area first.” -Real Simple

Repeat the Process as Needed

If your couch still smells like dog after cleaning it once, don’t worry. It may take more than one attempt to completely remove the odor from upholstery. Repeat the process until you’ve successfully removed the dog smell.

• Remember to keep the room well-ventilated while cleaning and drying.
• Vacuum debris before applying the enzyme cleaner to optimize its effectiveness.
• Avoid using steam cleaners or hot water extraction machines as they have been known to damage certain types of fabric coverings that are commonly found on sofas.
• You can use air fresheners or deodorizers in conjunction with enzyme cleaners to offer additional freshness but avoid spraying them directly onto your couches because the chemicals in these sprays might react adversely with your couch’s material makeup.

“Deeper odors may require washing sofa cushions separately before spot-cleaning the surface of the couch.” -Bob Vila

If you want to clean a couch that smells like a dog, an enzymatic cleaner is your best bet. Ensure the product is safe for use on upholstery, and test a small area before proceeding to treat the entire couch. As always, follow the instructions given by the manufacturer and repeat the process as needed until the sofa no longer has lingering odors. Don’t hesitate to consult professional cleaners if the scent persists despite repeated attempts at removal.

Consider Professional Upholstery Cleaning

If you have a couch that smells like dog, it can be difficult to know how to get rid of the unpleasant odor. While there are many at-home remedies and cleaning solutions available, these may not always be effective in eliminating odors completely. This is where professional upholstery cleaning services can help.

Professional upholstery cleaners have the expertise and equipment necessary to thoroughly clean your couch and remove any odors. They use specialized cleaning solutions and techniques that are safe for your upholstery but tough on dirt and bacteria. By choosing this option, you will ensure that your couch is hygienically cleaned and free from bad smells.

Research Local Upholstery Cleaning Companies

The first step in finding a professional upholstery cleaner is to research local companies in your area. You can search online or ask for referrals from friends or family members who have used similar services before.

When researching potential companies, take note of their reputation and experience in the industry. Look for customer testimonials and reviews to see what other people have experienced with their services. You should also check if they offer services specific to pet odors as some companies may only specialize in general upholstery cleaning.

Ask for Referrals from Friends or Family

Another way to find a reputable upholstery cleaning company is by asking for referrals from friends or family. If someone close to you has had success with a particular service provider, chances are they were pleased with the results and would recommend them to others.

You could also speak to your vet, they often refer clients to cleaning services that specialize in removing pet-related stains/smells from furniture surfaces.

Get a Quote from Multiple Companies

Once you’ve identified a few potential cleaning companies, it’s recommended that you request a quote from each one. This will give you an idea of the cost of their services and allow you to compare prices.

When requesting quotes, be sure to describe your couch condition as accurately as possible so that the price estimate reflects the amount of work that needs to be done.

Choose a Company with Good Reviews and Competitive Pricing

After receiving a few quotes, it’s time to choose which company to go with. When making your decision, consider both customer reviews and pricing – ideally, you should choose a company that meets both of these criteria.

Read through online reviews to get a sense of how other customers have experienced their services, paying close attention to comments about pet-related odor removal specifically as not all companies tackle this problem effectively. Compare prices between different companies to ensure you’re getting a fair deal for quality service.

“It is important to regularly maintain and clean upholstered furniture, especially if you have pets. While there are many home remedies available, professional upholstery cleaning remains the most effective method for eliminating odors related to pet urine.” – Kelly’s Cleaners

Frequently Asked Questions