One downside to having a dog is that they can leave a lingering smell on your blankets.
Whether it’s from cuddling with your pup on the couch or letting them sleep in your bed and burrow under the blankets, the dog smell can be tough to get rid of.
Fortunately, there are several simple methods you can use to remove the smell and keep your blankets smelling fresh.
Understanding Dog Odors
Before you can effectively get rid of the dog smell on your blankets, it’s important to understand where the odor is coming from. Dogs have a unique scent that is caused by their skin, fur, and sweat.
Additionally, dogs have scent glands that secrete oils, which can also contribute to their odor. When your dog spends time on your blankets, they leave behind a combination of these scents, which can be difficult to remove.
Causes of Dog Smell
Dog smells can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Natural oils: Dogs have natural oils in their skin that can transfer onto blankets and other fabrics, causing a distinct odor.
- Sweat: Dogs sweat through their paws and may also pant when they are hot, which can contribute to an unpleasant smell.
- Dirt and debris: Dogs may pick up dirt and debris on their fur when they are outside, which can transfer onto blankets and other fabrics.
- Urine and feces: Accidents can happen, and if your dog has an accident on a blanket, the smell can linger even after the mess has been cleaned up.
Understanding the cause of the dog smell on your blankets can help you choose the best method for removing the odor, and may even make you think twice before letting your dog play in the rain again.
Types of Blanket Fabrics
Different types of blanket fabrics may require different methods for removing dog smells.
Here are some common types of blanket fabrics and tips for removing dog odors:
- Cotton: Cotton blankets are durable and easy to clean. To remove dog smells, wash the blanket in hot water with a heavy-duty detergent.
- Wool: Wool blankets are warm and cozy, but they can be more difficult to clean. To remove dog smells, try soaking the blanket in a mixture of white vinegar and water before washing it in cold water with a gentle detergent.
- Fleece: Fleece blankets are soft and comfortable, but they can trap dog smells. To remove dog odors, wash the blanket in hot water with a heavy-duty detergent and add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
- Synthetic: Synthetic blankets are often made from polyester or other man-made materials. To remove dog smells, wash the blanket in hot water with a heavy-duty detergent and add a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
Preventive Measures
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your blankets smelling fresh. One way to prevent dog odor from building up on your blankets is to limit your dog’s access to them.
You can also use a washable dog blanket or cover your blankets with a sheet that can be easily washed. Another preventive measure is to regularly groom your dog to keep their skin and fur clean and healthy.
Regular Grooming
One of the best ways to prevent dog smell from permeating your blankets is to keep your furry friend clean. Regular grooming helps to remove dirt, debris, and loose hair that can contribute to the unpleasant odor.
Brush your dog’s fur at least once a week to remove loose hair and debris.
Use a pet-friendly shampoo to bathe your dog every four to six weeks. This will help to keep your dog’s coat clean and smelling fresh.
Proper Dog Bed Maintenance
Your dog’s bed can also contribute to the dog smell in your blankets. Make sure your dog’s bed is clean and well-maintained. Wash the bed cover and any blankets or pillows regularly.
Use a pet-friendly detergent and avoid fabric softeners and dryer sheets. These products can leave a residue that can cause skin irritation and contribute to the dog smell.
In addition, consider using a waterproof liner under your dog’s bed cover. This will help to prevent any urine or other bodily fluids from seeping into the bed and causing an unpleasant odor. You can also sprinkle baking soda on your dog’s bed to help absorb any odors.
By following these simple preventive measures, you can help to keep your blankets smelling fresh and clean, even with a furry friend in the house.
Washing Techniques
By choosing the right detergent, using baking soda and vinegar, and using the right water temperature and cycle settings, you can effectively remove dog smell from blankets.
Choosing the Right Detergent
When washing blankets that have dog smell, it’s important to choose the right detergent. Look for a detergent that is specifically designed for removing odors and stains. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can actually trap odors in the fabric.
Using Baking Soda and Vinegar
Adding baking soda and vinegar to the wash can help eliminate dog smell from blankets. Before washing, sprinkle a cup of baking soda onto the blanket, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, add a cup of vinegar to the wash cycle.
The combination of baking soda and vinegar helps break down and remove odor-causing bacteria.
Water Temperature and Cycle Settings
When washing blankets with dog smell, it’s important to use the right water temperature and cycle settings. Use hot water to help kill bacteria and remove odors.
For heavily soiled blankets, use a longer wash cycle to ensure that the blanket is thoroughly cleaned.
Natural Deodorizers
Essential Oils
Essential oils are a great natural way to get rid of dog smell from your blankets. You can add a few drops of essential oil to your laundry detergent or use it in a spray bottle with water to spritz on your blankets.
Some of the best essential oils to use for deodorizing are lavender, lemon, peppermint, and eucalyptus.
These oils not only help to eliminate the odor but also leave a refreshing scent.
DIY Natural Sprays
Another natural way to deodorize your dog’s blankets is to make your own spray. You can mix white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spritz it on your blankets. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and can help to neutralize the odor. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the mixture for a more pleasant scent.
Another option is to mix baking soda and water in a spray bottle. Baking soda is known for its ability to absorb odors and can help to eliminate the dog smell from your blankets. Simply spray the mixture onto your blankets and let it sit for a few hours before washing.
Using natural deodorizers is a safe and effective way to get rid of dog smell from your blankets. Not only are they better for the environment, but they are also gentle on your blankets and won’t leave behind any harsh chemicals.
Sun-Drying and Aeration
If your blankets have a dog smell, sun-drying and aeration can help eliminate the odor. Follow these guidelines to get the best results.
Benefits of Sunlight
Sunlight can help remove bacteria and other microorganisms that cause the dog smell. The UV rays in sunlight break down the compounds that cause the odor, leaving your blankets smelling fresh and clean.
Sunlight also helps to bleach out any stains that may have accumulated on the blankets.
Proper Airing Practices
To sun-dry your blankets, first, shake them out to remove any loose hair or debris. Then, hang them outside on a clothesline or over a balcony railing in direct sunlight. Be sure to spread the blankets out evenly to ensure that they dry evenly.
Leave them outside for several hours, or until they are completely dry. If the weather is not sunny, you can still air out your blankets by hanging them in a well-ventilated area, such as near an open window or a fan.
To maximize the benefits of sun-drying and aeration, follow these practices:
- Wash the blankets before sun-drying them to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated.
- Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets, as they can leave a residue on the blankets that may trap odors.
- If your blankets are particularly smelly, you may need to repeat the sun-drying process several times to completely eliminate the odor.
Deep Cleaning Solutions
When regular washing isn’t enough to get rid of the dog smell from your blankets, it’s time to turn to deep cleaning solutions.
Here are two effective options to consider:
Enzymatic Cleaners
Enzymatic cleaners are specifically designed to break down organic matter, such as urine and feces, that can cause unpleasant odors. These cleaners contain enzymes that target the source of the smell, breaking it down and eliminating it.
To use an enzymatic cleaner on your blankets, follow these steps:
- Check the label to make sure the cleaner is safe for use on the type of fabric your blanket is made of.
- Apply the cleaner directly to the affected area, making sure to saturate it completely.
- Let the cleaner sit for the recommended amount of time (usually 10-15 minutes).
- Rinse the blanket thoroughly with water.
- Allow the blanket to air dry.
Be sure to read the instructions carefully before using an enzymatic cleaner, as some products may require additional steps or precautions.
Professional Services
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of the dog smell from your blankets, it may be time to call in the professionals.
Many cleaning companies offer specialized services for pet odors, using powerful equipment and cleaning solutions to deep clean your blankets and eliminate even the toughest odors.
When choosing a professional service, be sure to do your research and read reviews from other pet owners. Look for a company that specializes in pet odor removal and uses safe, non-toxic cleaning products.
While professional services can be more expensive than DIY solutions, they may be worth it if you’re struggling to get rid of the dog smell from your blankets.
Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that your blankets are truly clean and odor-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best practices for washing dog blankets to avoid lingering odors?
When washing dog blankets, it is important to use a detergent that is specifically designed for pet odors. You should also wash the blankets in hot water and use an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all the soap is removed.
Avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets, as they can leave a residue that can trap odors. It is also a good idea to wash the blankets separately from other laundry to prevent cross-contamination.
How can I effectively remove dog urine smell from blankets and carpets?
To effectively remove the dog urine smell from blankets and carpets, start by blotting up as much of the urine as possible with a clean cloth. Then, mix equal parts white vinegar and water and spray the affected area.
Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth. Repeat this process until the odor is gone. You can also use a pet odor neutralizer, which is specifically designed to eliminate pet odors.
What can be done to prevent dog bedding from retaining odors over time?
To prevent dog bedding from retaining odors over time, it is important to wash the bedding regularly. You should also vacuum the bedding regularly to remove any hair or dander that can trap odors.
If possible, try to air out the bedding in the sun, as sunlight can help to kill bacteria that cause odors. Finally, consider using a pet odor neutralizer spray on the bedding between washes to keep it smelling fresh.
