How to get rid of dog smell on couch?

Having a dog can be a joyful experience. However, dogs can sometimes leave unpleasant odors on furniture like couches. Dog smell on couches can be embarrassing and difficult to remove. Thankfully, there are effective methods and products to get rid of dog smell from couches.

What causes dog smell on couches?

There are a few main causes of dog odor on couches:

Sweat – Dogs have sweat glands in their paws that can transfer to couch fabrics.

Saliva – Dog saliva from licking or chewing can sink into cushions.
Shedding – Dog hair and dander shed on couches can create musty smells.
Accidents – Urine and feces accidents leave strong odors if not cleaned properly.

Dog smell can be challenging to remove because it penetrates deep into the padding and fabric of couches. The odor then lingers and becomes more noticeable when heat is applied by people sitting on the couch.

Tips for preventing dog smell on couches

The best way to keep couches free of dog smell is by preventing it in the first place. Here are some handy tips for keeping dog odor away from your couches:

Use couch covers or throws that are easily washable and protect cushions.

Vacuum couches regularly using a hose attachment to reach deep into crevices.
Spray fabric freshener on couch covers to help repel odors between washes.
Brush or comb dog before letting them on furniture to remove loose hair and dander.

Trim dog’s nails so they don’t scratch or snag couch fabric when jumping up.
Train dogs to avoid jumping, chewing, and scratching on couches.
Clean accidents immediately using an enzymatic cleaner to remove odor traces.

Steam clean or shampoo couch cushions and backing every few months.

Routine maintenance and training are the best ways to keep dog smell away. However, occasional thorough deep cleaning is still needed to remove built-up odors over time.

Cleaning solutions for removing dog smell

If dog odor has already set into your couch, don’t worry. There are many deodorizing solutions that can tackle even the strongest pet smells. Here are some of the best ways to get dog smell out of couches:

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and neutralizer for odors. To use it on couches:

Liberally sprinkle baking soda over all cushion surfaces and crevices.
Let sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb odors.

Vacuum up the baking soda.
Repeat as needed until smell dissipates.

White Vinegar

White vinegar helps break down odor proteins and kills bacteria that cause smell. Follow these steps:

Fill a spray bottle with equal parts cool water and white vinegar.
Lightly mist the entire surface of couch cushions and backing with solution.
Let sit for several hours until completely dry.

Vacuum up any remaining vinegar residue.

Enzymatic Cleaner

Enzymatic cleaners work by breaking down the compounds in organic stains and odors on a molecular level. To use:

Select an enzymatic cleaner specifically made for pet stains and odors.

Pre-treat any visible stains by spraying cleaner directly and let sit.
Clean entire couch surface by mixing cleaner with water in a spray bottle and misting over fabric.
Let sit for 5-10 minutes then blot excess liquid with a cloth.

Allow to fully air dry.

Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning uses hot pressurized water to deeply penetrate materials and sanitize. Follow these steps:

Vacuum couch cushions first to remove loose debris and hair.

Fill steam cleaner reservoir with cleaning solution and hottest water temperature allowed.
Work steam cleaner over all fabric surfaces, going over spots repeatedly.
Use absorbent towels to blot up excess moisture pulled up.

Allow cushions to fully air dry before replacing covers or using.

Upholstery Shampoo

Specialty upholstery shampoos can scrub out ground-in odors and brighten couch fabric. Here is the process:

Remove cushion covers and vacuum well before washing.

Mix upholstery shampoo concentrate with water in a bucket per label instructions.
Use a soft scrub brush dipped in the solution to gently scrub entire cushion surface.
Rinse cushions with clean water and towel dry.

Allow to fully air dry before replacing covers.

DIY odor removal remedies

In addition to ready-made cleaning products, you can also make DIY solutions for how to get dog smell out of couch cushions and fabric:

Vodka

The alcohol in vodka helps dissolve oils and residue that create odors. Use it by:

Mixing equal parts vodka and water in a spray bottle.
Misting affected areas until damp but not soaked.
Letting air dry fully before using again.

Essential Oils

Natural essential oils can help mask unpleasant odors. Try this method:

Select fresh scents like lemon, eucalyptus, or peppermint.
Add several drops of oils to water in a spray bottle.

Spray over fabric and let sit for a day until scent absorbs.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Use this dynamic duo in tandem by:

Sprinkling baking soda generously over entire area.

Spraying equal parts vinegar and water over the same area.
Letting foam and bubbles penetrate for 15-20 minutes.
Blotting up foam with clean rags.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that destroys foul odors. Follow these tips:

Spot test for color safety first.
Mix hydrogen peroxide and water 1:1 ratio in a spray bottle.

Spray over affected areas of couch.
Let sit for 5-10 minutes before blotting excess liquid.
Rinse with water and dry area thoroughly.

Tips for preventing dog smell recurrence

After deep cleaning your couch, follow these tips to stop dog smell from quickly returning:

Use odor blocking sprays or powders between washes.
Vacuum and flip cushions frequently to prevent buildup in crevices.

Steam clean every few months to maintain freshness.
Limit access with closed doors or pet barriers when away.
Clean accidents ASAP before smell sets in.

Reapply stain protectants to fabric after washing.
Keep dogs well-groomed and nails trimmed to reduce shedding and fabric damage.

When to consider professional couch cleaning

For severe or very old pet odors that have set deep into couch materials, professional strength cleaning may be needed. Consider upholstery cleaning services if:

DIY attempts have failed to fully eliminate the smell.
Visible staining remains after cleaning.
The couch has not been professionally cleaned for several years.

You need to restore couch for selling or donating.
Odor is coming from couch frame or lower inner materials.

Look for upholstery cleaners that use truck-mounted hot water extraction systems and deodorizing agents tailored for pet stains. This provides the deepest level of cleaning possible.

Preventing dog smell on other furniture

While couches tend to get the brunt of dog odor issues, beds, chairs, and other upholstered furniture are also prone to smells. Here are some tips for keeping dogs smelling fresh on all your furniture:

Wash Dog Beds Frequently

– Use removable covers for easy washing

– Spot clean in between washes as needed

– Use waterproof liners underneath for accidents

Use Washable Chair Covers

– Slipcovers make cleaning and replacing chair fabric easier

– Look for water-resistant fabrics

– Wash at least monthly or whenever smells arise

Vacuum and Groom Regularly

– Vacuum dog hair weekly from furniture

– Brush dogs frequently to reduce shedding on furniture

– Trim nails to avoid snags and damage to upholstery

Limit Access

– Close doors to dens, bedrooms, or formal living rooms

– Use baby gates to keep dogs out of certain rooms

– Crate train dogs to restrict access when you are away

Clean Accidents ASAP

– Blot up urine quickly before it soaks in

– Use an enzymatic cleaner to break down odors

– Steam clean or shampoo any effected chairs, cushions, etc.

Conclusion

While dog smells can sometimes overtake furniture like couches, there are many effective ways to both treat odors and prevent recurrence. By using the right cleaning techniques and consistently maintaining furniture, you can keep your home fresh and furry friend happy.