Having a dog can be a joy, but dealing with that lingering doggie odor trapped in your carpets can be frustrating. No matter how much you love your furry friend, that wet dog smell can make your home less than fresh. Fortunately, there are many methods to remove dog odors from carpets to keep your home smelling clean.
Why Does My Carpet Smell Like a Dog?
Dogs have natural oils in their fur and skin that can transfer to your carpets. Their paws also pick up all kinds of smells from outside that get brought indoors. Urine is one of the biggest culprits for dog odors in carpets. Dog urine contains ammonia that gives off a potent stench as it dries. All these factors can leave carpets with embedded doggie odors.
How to Get Dog Smell Out of Carpet
Eliminating dog odors from carpets involves attacking the smell at its source. Here are some of the most effective methods:
1. Blot up wet stains
The first step is to soak up any wet stains immediately. Be sure to blot gently rather than rubbing, which can spread the stain and odor. Use paper towels or an absorbent cloth to blot up as much liquid as possible. Scoop up any solids with a spoon or knife.
2. Use an enzymatic cleaner
Enzymatic cleaners work to break down the compounds in stains and odors on a molecular level. They contain beneficial bacteria and enzymes that attack the urine, feces, vomit, or other organic matter. This process removes the stench at its source. Some popular enzymatic cleaners for dog messes include Nature’s Miracle and Angry Orange.
3. Try vinegar and baking soda
For a natural option, you can make a DIY deodorizing carpet cleaner with vinegar and baking soda. Just mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit briefly, then sprinkle baking soda over the area. The baking soda will fizz and help lift the stain. Let it dry completely then vacuum up the baking soda.
4. Sprinkle on carpet deodorizer
There are many commercial carpet deodorizing products that can help freshen your carpets. Look for ones made for pet odors that contain odor-eliminating enzymes or bacteria. You simply sprinkle the powder over the carpet, let it sit, then vacuum it up. The deodorizer will continue neutralizing odors in the carpet fibers.
5. Rent a carpet cleaner
Using a carpet cleaning machine is very effective for eliminating embedded odors and stains. The hot water extraction method deeply cleans by flushing out contaminants from the carpets. Look for a rental unit made for pet stains. If needed, use an odor-neutralizing cleaner solution in the machine as well.
6. Steam clean
Another deep cleaning option is using a multipurpose steam cleaner on carpets. The super heated, pressurized steam helps sanitize carpets by killing odor-causing bacteria. Check that the steam cleaner is safe for use on carpets. Go over areas thoroughly to clean deep down.
7. Use odor absorption
There are various odor-absorbing products that can soak up lingering doggie smells from carpets. Activated charcoal, Zeolite, baking soda, and odor sponges are very effective at absorbing odors rather than just masking them. Place them around problem areas and let them work their magic.
8. Apply carpet freshener
Once carpets are clean, you can maintain freshness between deep cleanings with carpet freshening products. Look for non-toxic options and avoid anything with strong perfumes. Essential oil carpet fresheners add natural fragrance without harsh chemicals.
9. Increase ventilation
Improving air circulation removes lingering odors wafting from carpets. Open windows regularly, use fans, or run a dehumidifier to keep fresh air flowing. This prevents any musty pet smells from building up over time.
10. Clean often
Regularly cleaning and vacuuming carpets can prevent odors from taking hold. Focus on high traffic areas and anywhere your dog likes to lounge. Having a routine cleaning schedule makes it easier to stay on top of pet smells.
Tips for Preventing Dog Odors in Carpets
While eliminating current odors, you also want to prevent future smells from occurring. Here are some handy tips for keeping carpets fresh when you have a dog:
- Clean accidents ASAP to avoid smells setting in
- Brush and bathe dogs regularly to control oils and odors in their coat
- Vacuum frequently with a pet odor fighting vacuum
- Use protective covers or washable rugs in high traffic areas
- Use indoor shoes or booties to minimize what gets tracked inside
- Clean paws after being outside to prevent transfer of smells
- Avoid letting dogs on furniture to limit oil transfer
- Keep carpeted areas well ventilated to avoid odor buildup
- Use air purifiers and dehumidifiers to freshen indoor air
- Limit access to carpeted rooms if possible
When to Call a Professional
For severe pet odor problems or old, set-in stains, it may be time to call in a professional carpet cleaner. They have industrial strength equipment and products to deep clean and deodorize carpets.
Signs you may need professional carpet cleaning include:
- Lingering urine odor even after cleaning
- Noticeable pet stains around the house
- Musty smells coming from carpets
- Visible buildup of dirt, grime, or residues
- Carpets more than a year old with regular pet traffic
Look for carpet cleaners in your area that specialize in eliminating pet odors and have powerful truck-mounted systems. This provides a much deeper clean compared to rented units. Professional hot water extraction removes even the most stubborn odors that have seeped deep into carpet fibers and backing.
DIY Carpet Cleaning Solution Recipes
If you want to make your own natural carpet cleaner, here are a few effective homemade recipes to remove dog odors:
Vinegar and Essential Oils
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 10 drops essential oil (e.g. lemon, lavender, peppermint)
Mix ingredients in a spray bottle. Spray on carpets and allow to sit briefly before blotting and drying. The vinegar neutralizes odors while the essential oils add a fresh scent.
Hydrogen Peroxide Carpet Cleaner
- 1 cup 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 2 cups warm water
Combine ingredients and mix well. Apply to carpet stains and let sit for 5-10 minutes before blotting dry. The oxygen in the hydrogen peroxide helps lift stains and odors.
Enzymatic Cleaner
- 2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon laundry detergent (enzyme-based)
- 1 tablespoon biological washing powder
- 5 drops essential oil (optional)
Mix together and spray onto carpet. Let sit 15-20 minutes then blot and rinse with clean water. The enzymes work to break down organic stains and smells.
Conclusion
While dog smells in carpets can be annoying, there are many effective methods to eliminate those stubborn odors for good. By using the right cleaners, deodorizers and stain removers, you can get carpets fresh and clean again. Implementing prevention tips will also help minimize doggie odors. With some regular effort, you can keep carpets smelling clean despite having a furry friend running around.