Having a dog can be a joyful experience, but dealing with that lingering doggy smell on your furniture can quickly become a nuisance. Dog odors can really embed themselves into soft furnishings like couches, and getting rid of them entirely can seem impossible. However, with the right techniques and products, you can banish that dog smell from your couch for good.
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What Causes Dog Odors in Couches?
There are a few main culprits when it comes to dog odors in couches:
- Dog hair – Shedding and pet dander can collect in fabric and upholstery.
- Dog sweat – Dogs sweat through their paws and this moisture can transfer to furniture.
- Dog urine – Accidents inevitably happen, especially with young puppies or untrained dogs.
- Dog glands – When dogs smell furniture, oil and fluid from their anal glands can rub off.
These substances allow odor-causing bacteria to thrive in the fabric, leading to that characteristic dog smell. The bacteria feed on the organic matter from your dog and release smelly compounds. Over time, these odors can build up and become quite overpowering.
How to Remove Dog Smell from a Couch
Fortunately, there are a number of techniques you can use to get rid of dog odors from your couch. Here are some simple steps to banish that smell:
Vacuum Thoroughly
Start by giving your couch a deep clean with your vacuum. Use the hose attachment to reach into all crevices and seams. This will lift out loose hairs, dander and debris that could be harboring odors.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and odor absorber. Liberally sprinkle baking soda over all couch cushions and crevices. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow it to absorb odors. Then simply vacuum it all up.
Steam Clean
Using a steam cleaner on your couch cushions can help release deep-set odors from the fabric. The heat helps to loosen odorous compounds while the steam carries them away. Be sure to fully dry couch cushions afterwards.
Try Vinegar
White vinegar is a potent deodorizer for smell elimination. Fill a spray bottle with equal parts cool water and distilled white vinegar. Mist vinegar solution generously over all couch surfaces and let it soak in for several hours. The vinegar will help neutralize odors.
Use Enzymatic Cleaner
Enzymatic cleaners work to break down the compounds in urine, feces, vomit, sweat and other bodily fluids that cause odors. Spray an enzymatic cleaner formulated for use on fabrics directly onto affected areas of the couch. Allow it to soak in and air dry as directed.
Sprinkle Cornstarch
For quicker odor absorption, try sprinkling some cornstarch directly onto smelly spots on your couch. The cornstarch will help soak up any moisture that could be harboring odors. Let it sit for 30 minutes then vacuum it away.
Blot with Hydrogen Peroxide
A hydrogen peroxide solution can help remove odorous compounds. Mix together 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide with 5 parts water. Use a clean cloth to blot this solution onto affected areas of the couch. Let it dry fully before using the couch again.
Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has incredible absorbent abilities and can soak up foul odors. Place charcoal briquettes or pouches under and around couch cushions overnight to actively pull odors from the fabric while you sleep.
How to Keep Dog Smells Away
Once you’ve tackled that doggy odor, here are some tips to help prevent it from returning or getting out of control:
- Brush your dog frequently to control shedding on furniture.
- Clean pet accidents immediately to avoid odor setting in.
- Use couch covers or blankets that can easily be removed and washed.
- Vacuum and steam clean cushions regularly.
- Use fabric deodorizing sprays and powders between washes.
- Layer baking soda under couch cushions when not in use.
- Keep your dog well-groomed and cleaned, especially paws.
- Wash any dog beds or blankets that share the couch.
Best Products for Dog Odor Removal
Utilizing the right products can make removing that stubborn dog smell much easier. Here are some top recommended products for eliminating dog odors from couches and other furniture:
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator |
|
| Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator |
|
| Bissell Pet Odor & Stain Remover Spray |
|
Odor & Stain Remover Spray Tips
When using odor and stain remover sprays, follow these tips:
- Test on a small, hidden area first.
- Blot spray into fabric, don’t rub.
- Allow spray to fully dry before using furniture.
- Ventilate the area well after use.
- Pretreat heavily soiled areas.
- Use an extraction cleaner after spray dries.
When to Call a Professional
In severe cases of pet odor or staining, a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner may be needed. Signs it’s time to call the pros include:
- Visible staining in fabric or cushions
- Heavy urine saturation
- Pervasive odors that resist at-home remedies
- New couch with unknown fabric composition
The right equipment and commercial-strength cleaners make professionals well-equipped to eliminate tough odor issues. They can also assess any damage and advise if couch replacement is needed.
Preventing Dog Odors
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to dog odors on your couch. Here are some proactive things you can do:
- Use protective blankets or slipcovers on cushions.
- Crate train your dog or limit couch access.
- Clean accidents ASAP to avoid odors setting in.
- Brush and bathe your dog regularly.
- Vacuum around and under couch frequently.
- Steam clean cushions monthly.
- Use fabric freshening sprays regularly.
When to Replace a Couch
If a couch has extensive staining, saturation, or damage from dog odors and liquids, replacement may be the only viable option. Signs it’s time to replace a couch include:
- Pervasive odors that persist after professional cleaning.
- Visible staining that cannot be removed.
- Structural damage like torn or deteriorated upholstery.
- health concerns over contamination.
Choosing a durable, easy to clean couch material can help prevent excessive damage. Leather and synthetic leather fabrics resist odors and liquids better than cloth. Slipcovers can also protect cushions from dog smells and accidents.
Conclusion
While dog odors in couches can be challenging, there are thankfully many effective remedies. Thorough vacuuming, steam cleaning, odor sprays, and absorbents can tackle even severe smells. Prevention is also key through actions like couch covers, crate training and frequent washing. With some persistence and the right products, you can get back to enjoying a fresh smelling couch and happy bonding with your furry friend.