Pets are cherished members of the family. They bring boundless joy—but also some unwanted smell. As much as we adore them as they are, nobody wants the lingering odors that leave your home smelling like a kennel.
Why is Dog Smell So Difficult to Get Rid Of?
Eliminating dog smells poses a challenge for various reasons. Dogs have oily skin and accumulate waxy buildup in their ears. They sweat through their feet, emitting an odor that can permeate various surfaces in your home. Wet dog fur, urine, poo, and pet dander, composed of skin cells, hair, and other substances your dog sheds, also contribute significantly to the unpleasant smell. These scents can infiltrate furniture, curtains, bedding, and anything porous, which makes it all the harder to eradicate.
Adding to the complexity of removing pet odors is the dog's instinctual urge to mark territories with their scent. This is particularly true in male dogs, who may urinate on objects instead of their dog grass pee pads to assert ownership. These factors contribute to persistent dog smells, requiring consistent and thoughtful strategies to remove odors effectively.
9 Tips to Remove Pet Odors in Your Home
Fortunately for you, there are many ways to get rid of that lingering dog smell in your home. However, the effectiveness of these steps may vary based on the severity of the situation, necessitating repeated efforts and a focus on areas that tend to retain the scent, such as furniture where your dog often lounges.
Deep Clean Your Home
Start your deep cleaning efforts by extending your vacuuming routine beyond the floors. Pay attention to your carpets, curtains, upholstery, and rugs, focusing on areas where your pet often hangs out. Run your vacuum behind furniture and into all the nooks and crannies, too.
For households with pets, we recommend vacuuming two to three times a week or even daily during shedding seasons to manage fur and dander. Additionally, don't forget to clean and change your vacuum filter to maintain optimal performance, and wash your curtains and removable covers periodically.
Steam Clean Furniture
Steam cleaning your furniture not only helps manage stubborn pet odors. It also sanitizes and lifts embedded pet dander, hair, and stains that may accumulate over time, creating a healthier environment for you and your dog.
Aim to steam clean your furniture every three to six months. Vacuum your furniture before steaming to remove as much loose dirt as possible. Afterward, allow the furniture to dry completely before using it again. For ongoing maintenance, you might want to consider a strict no-pet policy on beds and furniture to prevent odors from penetrating into the fabric.
Wash Toys, Bedding, Collars, and Leashes Regularly
In addition to steam cleaning, make it a practice to regularly wash the items your dog uses daily: bed covers, blankets, toys, and even things like bowls, collars, and leashes. These items can easily harbor dirt and bacteria, contributing to foul odors.
Use Baking Soda and Other Household Items
Sometimes, you only have to look in your pantry for common household items to help control dog odor. For example, baking soda is a natural neutralizer that absorbs odors. Sprinkle it over furniture, carpets, and rugs, let it sit overnight and vacuum it the next day.
Alternatively, add apple cider vinegar to your laundry detergent when washing linens and bedding. As it turns out, while you might consider dogs to be man's best friend, it's actually baking soda and vinegar.
Air Out Your Home and Use an Air Purifier
Airing out your home is a great way to improve ventilation and eliminate pet odors—simply open the windows and doors whenever possible.
If allergies are a concern, consider investing in a HEPA air filter to effectively eliminate airborne bacteria and address dander and odor issues. Change the air filters regularly to maximize airflow and circulation, ensuring a fresher and healthier indoor environment.
Bathe Your Dog Regularly
The most effective way to keep pet odors at bay is to treat the source: your dog. Besides following our guide on how often you should bathe your dog, you can take additional measures to keep them clean between baths.
Wipe their paws each time they come indoors with pet-friendly wipes. You can also use them to gently clean their face and coat without requiring a full bath. Brush their coat weekly and schedule professional grooming at least once a month.
Potty Train Your Dog
In addition to regular baths, we emphasize the importance of potty training in controlling pet odors. By teaching your dog the appropriate places to eliminate, you reduce the risks of indoor accidents.
To successfully potty train your dog, establish a routine with regular potty breaks, particularly 15 minutes after meals and waking up to reinforce positive behavior. Pay attention to their cues, such as sniffing or circling in place. When your pet eliminates in the designated area, reward them with praise or treats immediately to create positive associations. Patience, understanding, and consistency are key during potty training to build a strong foundation for good habits.
Use an Indoor Grass Pad for Dogs
While the outdoors is the ideal location for potty training, there are situations where you would benefit from having a designated bathroom area indoors. Such situations include caring for a small pup, a senior dog, or a pet with mobility issues that make them more prone to accidents inside. It also proves advantages in cases where going outdoors is less than practical, such as for apartment renters or during inclement weather.
A dog grass pad with a tray from Gotta Go Grass emerges as a convenient and accessible bathroom solution for your dog. It uses a fresh patch of grass with natural odor and moisture-absorbing properties to facilitate easy clean-up and contribute to a healthier and more sanitary environment.
Clean Up Accidents Inside Immediately
Even with proper potty training, your pet may occasionally have accidents inside. Promptly cleaning up the area is crucial to prevent lingering unpleasant smells that may attract your dog to revisit the spot. Use an enzyme cleaner to permanently remove odors and prevent repeat accidents.
How to Maintain a Pet-Odor-Free Home
Keeping your home fresh and odor-free with pets involves a few key steps, like deep cleaning, good ventilation, regular bathing, and effective potty training. Using solutions like indoor grass pee pads can be a helpful addition to your efforts by controlling odors and making clean-up easier.
Remember, however, that consistent upkeep is essential to ensure success in creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for you and your pet.
Remember, consistent upkeep is essential to maintain a comfortable and welcoming environment for both you and your furry friend.
Do you have any other tips to add to the list? Let us know by leaving a comment.
