8 Easy Ways to Get Rid of That Dog Smell in Your House—Fast
- Joao Nsita
- 2 hours ago
- 10 min read
We love our dogs. They are our best friends, our confidants, and the source of endless joy and viral TikTok moments. But let’s be honest: we don’t love the way they smell. Whether it’s that wet-dog musk after a rainy walk, the lingering scent of Fritos on their paws, or the general "kennel" aroma that seems to seep into the very drywall of our homes, dog odor is the one downside to pet parenthood.
If you have ever walked into your home and realized you’ve gone "nose blind"—or worse, had a guest wrinkle their nose politely—you know the panic. In 2025, the trend of the "Clean Girl Aesthetic" has merged with "Dog Mom Life" on Pinterest and TikTok, creating a massive demand for homes that look lived in but smell like a luxury spa. We are seeing a surge in searches for "pet-safe home scents" and "deep cleaning hacks for pet owners." It is entirely possible to have a furry companion and a home that smells pristine; it just takes a bit of strategy, some science, and a routine that works.
In this comprehensive guide, we are going to dive deep into the eight most effective ways to banish dog smells fast. We aren't just masking odors; we are eliminating them at the source. From enzymatic breakdowns to the science of air purification, we have you covered.
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1. The Source of the Scent: Master the Bathing Routine
The most logical place to start when declawing the odors in your home is the source itself: your beloved pup. While dogs naturally have a scent, an overpowering odor usually indicates a buildup of bacteria, yeast, or oils in their fur.
The Science of "Wet Dog" Smell You know that distinct smell when your dog comes in from the rain? It’s not actually the water that smells. It’s the organic compounds in the bacteria and yeast living on your dog's skin. When dry, they emit little scent, but water breaks down the chemical bonds, releasing a fog of musky molecules into the air.
Bathing Frequency According to veterinary dermatologists, the general rule is to bathe dogs with healthy skin every four to six weeks. Bathing too often can strip natural oils, leading to dry, itchy skin (and ironically, more oil production to compensate). However, if you have a breed with hair rather than fur (like a Poodle or doodle mix), or a dog that loves mud, you might need more frequent washings.
The Right Products Stop using human shampoo. Dogs have a different pH balance (more neutral) than humans (more acidic). Using your shampoo can disrupt their acid mantle, inviting bacteria. Look for:
Oatmeal Shampoos: Great for soothing itchy skin and neutralizing odors naturally.
Deodorizing Shampoos: These often contain citrus or baking soda components.
Medicated Shampoos: If the smell is "yeasty" (like corn chips or old cheese), consult your vet. You may need an antifungal shampoo.
Pro-Tip: Don't forget the ears! A lot of "dog smell" actually originates from waxy, yeasty ears. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and cotton balls (never Q-tips) to gently wipe them out weekly.
2. The "Laundry Stripping" Method for Pet Bedding
If your dog is clean but your house still smells, look at where they sleep. Dog beds are sponges for oils, saliva, dander, and dirt.
The Routine You should be washing the pet bedding cover every week. Yes, every week. If your dog sleeps in your bed, your sheets need a weekly hot cycle, too. But sometimes, a standard wash isn't enough.
Trend Alert: Laundry Stripping This TikTok trend is a miracle for pet owners. If your dog's bed cover still smells musty after washing, try "stripping" it.
Fill a bathtub with very hot water.
Add a mixture of Borax, washing soda (sodium carbonate), and high-quality laundry detergent.
Submerge the clean bedding and let it soak for 4-5 hours.
Watch the water turn murky grey (it’s gross but satisfying).
Run it through a rinse cycle in your washer.
This removes deep-set body oils that standard machines miss.
The Foam Insert Don't forget the inside of the bed. While you can't usually put the foam insert in the washer, you can sprinkle it heavily with baking soda, let it sit in the sun (UV rays kill bacteria), and then vacuum it thoroughly.
Once your house is smelling fresh and the chores are done, you deserve a treat. Why not bake something delicious? Try this Delicious Pumpkin Carrot Cake to make your kitchen smell amazing.
3. Vacuuming: It’s Not Just for the Floor
Pet hair and dander are sticky. They don't just land on the floor; they adhere to your curtains, your lampshades, and the vertical surfaces of your sofa.
HEPA is Non-Negotiable If you have pets, a vacuum with a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is essential. Standard vacuums often suck up dander and just blow it back out the exhaust vent, redistributing the smell. HEPA filters trap 99.97% of particles.
The "Slow Pass" Technique Most of us vacuum too quickly. To really pull dander out of carpet fibers, you need to make slow passes, going over the same area from multiple directions (North-South, then East-West).
Furniture and Upholstery Your sofa is likely the biggest odor trap in the living room. Use the upholstery attachment weekly. If your cushions have removable covers, wash them monthly. If not, vacuum them thoroughly, getting into the crevices where hair ties and kibble crumbs hide.
Pro-Tip: Empty the vacuum canister immediately after use. Leaving a canister full of dog hair in the closet will just make the closet smell like a dog.
4. The Baking Soda Neutralization Hack
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) is the holy grail of eco-friendly odor removal. Unlike air fresheners that mask scents, baking soda is a base that reacts with acidic odor compounds (like urine or vomit) to neutralize them.
The Carpet Refresher Routine
Sprinkle: Generously dust your carpets, rugs, and fabric sofas with baking soda. You can use a sieve to get an even layer.
Wait: This is the hardest part. You need to let it sit. 15 minutes is the minimum, but for deep dog smells, leave it for several hours or overnight (keep the dog out of the room).
Vacuum: Vacuum it up slowly.
DIY Scented Powder To mimic expensive carpet powders, mix a cup of baking soda with 10-15 drops of a pet-safe essential oil.
Safe: Lavender, Chamomile, Sweet Orange.
Toxic (Avoid): Tea Tree, Peppermint, Pine, Wintergreen.
The Fridge Trick... for Your Living Room Just as you keep a box of baking soda in the fridge, you can hide small, open containers of baking soda behind books on shelves or under the sofa to continuously absorb ambient odors.
After a long day of deep cleaning, you need a hearty meal. Check out this recipe for Turkey & Butternut Squash Lasagna—it's the perfect comfort food.
5. Vinegar: The Acidic Avenger
If baking soda is the base, white distilled vinegar is the acid. It is incredibly effective at cutting through the grease and resins that hold onto odors.
The Spray Solution Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. You can use this to mist:
Hardwood floors (damp mop, don't soak).
Carpets (light mist).
Dog crates.
Baseboards.
The "Scent Shock" When you first spray vinegar, it smells strong. Don't panic. As the vinegar dries, the smell evaporates completely, taking the dog odors with it.
Washing Machine Boost Add a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle when washing dog towels or bedding. It acts as a fabric softener and helps strip away detergent buildup that can trap smells.
Window Washing Believe it or not, dog nose art (slobber) on windows can contribute to the smell of a room. Vinegar and newspaper (or a microfiber cloth) will cut through that dried saliva instantly.
6. Enzymatic Cleaners: The Nuclear Option for Accidents
If you are dealing with the smell of urine, feces, or vomit, soap and water will not work. You might clean the stain, but the uric acid crystals remain, and humidity will reactivate the smell for years.
How Enzymes Work Enzymatic cleaners contain beneficial bacteria that produce enzymes. These enzymes literally "eat" the organic matter (the urine proteins and bacteria) until they are completely gone.
Application is Key
Blot: Remove as much liquid as possible first.
Saturate: Soak the area. You need the cleaner to go as deep as the urine went (into the pad and subfloor).
Wait: Enzymes need time to work. Cover the spot with a damp towel to keep it moist and let it sit for 15 minutes to 24 hours, depending on the product instructions.
No Scrubbing: Let it air dry.
Pinterest Trend: "Bio-Kleen" and "Nature's Miracle" are consistent favorites among the cleaning community for their effectiveness.
Once the floors are spotless, invite friends over for a cozy brunch. These Cheddar and Chive Scones are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
7. Steam Cleaning: Deep Heat Extraction
Vacuuming gets the dry dirt; steam cleaning gets the oily grime. Over time, the oils from your dog's coat transfer to your rugs and carpets, creating a sticky film that attracts dirt and holds odor.
Steam vs. Shampoo Traditional carpet shampooers use soap and water. If you don't rinse perfectly, the soap residue attracts more dirt. Steam cleaners use superheated water vapor to kill bacteria and lift dirt without harsh chemicals.
Rent or Buy? If you have wall-to-wall carpet and a dog, investing in a home carpet cleaner (like a Bissell or Hoover) is usually worth the cost. If you only do it annually, rent a commercial-grade machine from a hardware store.
Upholstery Attachments Don't forget to steam the sofa! Just check the cleaning code on your furniture tag first ("W" or "WS" means water-based cleaning is okay; "S" means solvent only—no steam!).
8. Air Purification: Scrubbing the Atmosphere
Sometimes the smell isn't on a surface; it's floating in the air. Pet dander is microscopic and stays suspended for hours.
HEPA Filters Run an air purifier with a True HEPA filter 24/7 in the main rooms where your dog hangs out. This traps the particulate matter (dander and hair).
Activated Carbon For odors specifically, look for a purifier that also has an activated carbon filter. Carbon absorbs volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and gas-based odors that HEPA filters miss.
Cross-Ventilation The simplest trick? Open the windows. Modern homes are sealed tight for energy efficiency, which traps pollutants inside. Opening windows on opposite sides of the house for just 10 minutes a day creates a cross-breeze that flushes out stale, stinky air and replaces it with fresh oxygen.
Biophilic Design Plants like Spider Plants, Peace Lilies, and Boston Ferns act as natural air purifiers. Just ensure any plant you bring in is non-toxic to dogs (The ASPCA has a great database).
Cleaning is hard work! Reward yourself with a sweet treat. This White Chocolate and Raspberry Loaf Cake is divine.
Bonus: Preventative Measures for 2025
The "Paw Station" Trend A huge trend in home organization is the "Paw Station" by the door. This includes a designated towel, a jar of paw balm, and a pack of wipes. Wiping your dog's paws every time they come inside stops the "Frito feet" bacteria and outdoor allergens from entering your rugs.
Wash Collars and Leashes We often forget these! Nylon collars absorb oils and smell terrible. Throw them in a mesh bag and wash them with the dog bedding.
Dietary Check Sometimes the smell comes from the inside out. Low-quality food can lead to gas and poor skin health. Switching to a high-quality diet with proper fatty acids can improve skin health and reduce body odor.
Integrating Freshness into Your Life
Getting rid of dog smell isn't a one-time event; it's a lifestyle change. By incorporating these eight steps into your weekly and monthly routines, you can ensure your home remains a welcoming sanctuary.
Imagine hosting a movie night without worrying about the smell. Speaking of movies, if you need something to watch while you relax in your fresh-smelling home, check out our list of 10 Movies to Watch If You Love Shrek for some fun entertainment.
Or, perhaps you want to settle in with a good book. We highly recommend reading The Gingerbread Bakery by Laurie Gilmore—perfect for a cozy, clean evening.
If you're feeling ambitious and want to do more baking now that the kitchen is sparkling, try these Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Remember, a clean home is a form of self-care. For more tips on taking care of yourself, read our article on 12 Daily Self-Care Rituals for Women Who Do Too Much.
And if you are looking for more comfort food to cook in your fresh kitchen, you can't go wrong with Cozy Chicken-Pot-Pie Bites.
Conclusion
Banishing dog smell doesn't require harsh chemicals or expensive professionals. It requires a consistent attack on the bacteria and oils that cause the odor. By washing your dog and their bedding regularly, using the power of baking soda and vinegar, and employing enzymes and HEPA filters, you can reclaim your home's scent profile.
Your home should be a reflection of the things you love—including your dog, but excluding their smell. With these eight easy methods, you can breathe easy again.
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Call to Action: While you're letting that baking soda sit on the carpet, why not catch up on your favorite shows? Stream the latest hits on Amazon Prime Video or Netflix today!
FAQ
1. How often should I wash my dog's bed? You should wash the removable cover of your dog's bed at least once every two weeks, or weekly if they shed heavily or spend a lot of time outdoors. The inner foam should be aired out and vacuumed monthly.
2. Can I use Febreze on my dog? No! Never spray fabric refreshers like Febreze directly on your animal. It can irritate their skin and lungs. Only use products specifically labeled as safe for use on pets.
3. Why does my house smell like dog even after I clean? This usually means the odor is trapped in porous surfaces you might be missing, such as the carpet padding (underneath the carpet), the curtains, or the HVAC air filters. Try replacing your air filters and doing a deep steam clean.
4. Are essential oils safe for dogs? Some are, but many are toxic. Safe oils generally include lavender, chamomile, and ginger. Toxic oils include tea tree, peppermint, cinnamon, pine, and ylang-ylang. Always diffuse in a well-ventilated area where the dog can leave if they want to.
5. Does vinegar really kill dog smell? Yes. Vinegar is acetic acid. It bonds with volatile compounds (odors) and neutralizes them. It is particularly good for urine and general doggy musk.
6. What is the best flooring for dogs to avoid smell? Non-porous flooring is best. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), tile, or sealed hardwood are ideal because they don't trap urine or dander like carpet does.
7. How do I get dog smell out of a couch that can't be washed? Use the baking soda method: sprinkle heavily, rub it in gently, wait several hours, and vacuum. You can also use a portable upholstery cleaner (steam cleaner) for a deeper clean.
8. Why does my dog smell like corn chips? This is often caused by a bacteria called Proteus or Pseudomonas that lives on their paws. It's generally normal, but if it's overpowering, it could indicate a yeast infection requiring a vet visit.
9. Can an air purifier remove dog smell? Yes, but only if it has an Activated Carbon filter. Standard HEPA filters catch dander (particulates), but carbon is required to absorb gases and odors.
10. Is baking soda safe for dogs? Baking soda is toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities (it can cause electrolyte imbalances). However, sprinkling it on the carpet and vacuuming it up is safe, provided you keep the dog out of the room while the powder is sitting on the floor.
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