How To Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets: 3 Expert Ways To De-stink them!

We all love our furry friends, but let’s face it: sometimes they can leave behind a distinct “doggy” odor on our favorite blankets. Whether it’s that familiar wet dog smell after a rainy day walk or just a general musk from cuddling on the couch, that lingering odor can be a bit unpleasant. But don’t worry, banishing that dog smell from your blankets is easier than you might think!

Blankets are like magnets for pet odors because they trap fur, dander, and saliva, which all contribute to that distinctive smell.

Simply covering up the odor with air freshener won’t solve the problem; you need to tackle the source of the smell. This guide will provide you with effective and easy-to-follow methods to get dog smell out of blankets, leaving them fresh, clean, and ready for snuggling with your furry companion.

Understanding Dog Odor and its Impact on Blankets

Before we dive into the cleaning methods, it’s helpful to understand why dog smell clings to blankets in the first place. Dogs have a natural odor caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Sebum: This oily substance, secreted by their skin, helps keep their fur waterproof and insulated.
• Bacteria: Dogs have natural bacteria on their skin and fur, which can contribute to odor.
• Dander: Tiny flakes of skin shed by dogs can carry odor and allergens.
• Saliva: Dog saliva, especially when it dries, can leave a noticeable odor on fabrics.

When dogs snuggle on blankets, these odor-causing elements transfer to the fabric and get trapped in the fibers. The longer the blanket remains unwashed, the more the odor builds up, making it harder to remove.

Effective Methods to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets

Thankfully, there are various ways to combat dog smell in blankets, from simple washing techniques to natural deodorizing solutions.

1. Wash with the Right Detergent

The first line of defense against dog smell is a good wash. However, not all detergents are created equal when it comes to pet odors.

• Choose an enzyme-based detergent: Enzymes break down the proteins in organic matter like sweat, urine, and saliva, which are major contributors to dog odor.
• Opt for a detergent formulated for pet odors: Many brands offer detergents specifically designed to tackle pet smells, often containing odor neutralizers and extra cleaning power.
• Use the correct water temperature: Check the care label on your blanket. For most blankets, warm or hot water is best for removing odors, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Boost the Wash with Natural Additives

You can give your washing machine an extra boost in the fight against dog smell by adding natural ingredients to the wash cycle.

• Baking soda: Add a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle along with your detergent. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that helps neutralize odors.
• White vinegar: Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar helps to break down odor molecules and leaves your blankets smelling fresh.

Note: Avoid using chlorine bleach on blankets, as it can damage the fibers and may react with pet urine to create harmful fumes.

3. Air Drying for Freshness

After washing, proper drying is crucial to prevent mildew and lingering odors.

• Air dry whenever possible: Hang your blankets outside on a clothesline or drying rack. Sunlight has natural deodorizing properties and helps to freshen fabrics.
• Tumble dry on low heat: If air drying isn’t feasible, use the lowest heat setting on your dryer. High heat can set in odors and damage some blanket materials.

4. Deodorize with Baking Soda

For blankets that can’t be washed frequently, baking soda can be used as a dry deodorizer.

• Sprinkle generously: Lay the blanket flat and sprinkle baking soda liberally over the surface.
• Let it sit: Leave the baking soda on the blanket for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for stronger odors.
• Vacuum thoroughly: Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove all the baking soda.

5. Freshen Up with Fabric Spray

Fabric sprays can provide a quick refresh between washes, but they shouldn’t be relied upon as the sole solution for dog smell.

• Choose a natural spray: Opt for sprays made with essential oils or other natural ingredients, avoiding those with harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
• Spray lightly: Lightly mist the blanket with the fabric spray, focusing on areas where the odor is strongest.
• Air dry: Allow the blanket to air dry completely before use.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets: Specific Materials and Approaches

Different blanket materials may require slightly different approaches to remove dog odor effectively. Similarly, there are specific techniques that can be particularly helpful depending on your preferences and resources.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Fleece Blankets

Fleece blankets are soft and cozy, but they can trap dog fur and odors. Here’s how to clean them:

• Shake it out: Before washing, give the blanket a good shake outside to remove loose fur and dander.
• Wash in cold water: Use cold water and a gentle detergent to prevent shrinking or damage to the fleece fibers.
• Air dry or tumble dry low: Air drying is preferred, but you can also tumble dry on low heat if needed.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Wool Blankets

Wool blankets require more delicate care to prevent shrinking or damage.

• Check the care label: Always follow the care instructions on the blanket’s label. Some wool blankets may be dry-clean only.
• Hand wash or use a gentle cycle: If machine washable, use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water and a wool-safe detergent.
• Air dry flat: Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface or drying rack to air dry. Avoid hanging, as it can stretch the wool fibers.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Cotton Blankets

Cotton blankets are generally durable and easy to clean.

• Wash in hot water: Hot water is effective for removing odors and killing bacteria in cotton blankets.
• Use a heavy-duty detergent: A heavy-duty detergent with enzymes can tackle tough dog odors.
• Dry on high heat: Cotton blankets can typically be tumble dried on high heat.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets Naturally

For those who prefer natural cleaning methods, several options are available:

• Sunlight and fresh air: Hanging blankets outside to air dry in the sunshine can be surprisingly effective at removing mild dog odors. The sun’s UV rays have natural deodorizing properties.
• Baking soda and vinegar: As mentioned earlier, adding baking soda to the wash cycle and vinegar to the rinse cycle can boost odor removal naturally.
• Essential oils: Certain essential oils, like lavender and eucalyptus, have antibacterial and deodorizing properties. Add a few drops to wool dryer balls or a spray bottle with water to lightly mist the blanket after washing. Always research the safety of essential oils for your specific dog breed before use.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets in Washing Machine

Using your washing machine is often the most effective way to remove dog smell from blankets. Here are some tips to maximize odor removal:

• Pre-soak: For heavily soiled blankets, pre-soak them in a solution of detergent and baking soda before washing.
• Wash separately: Wash dog blankets separately from other laundry to prevent odor transfer.
• Extra rinse cycle: Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent and odor particles are removed.
• Clean the washing machine: Periodically clean your washing machine to prevent odor buildup. Run an empty cycle with hot water and vinegar to sanitize the machine.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a versatile and effective natural deodorizer for blankets:

• Dry sprinkle: Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the blanket, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly.
• Wash cycle: Add a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle along with your detergent to boost odor removal.
• Paste for tough odors: For stubborn odors, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few hours before washing.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Rugs

The techniques for removing dog smell from blankets can also be applied to rugs with some modifications:

• Vacuum thoroughly: Start by vacuuming the rug thoroughly on both sides to remove loose fur, dander, and debris.
• Spot clean stains: Treat any visible stains with an appropriate stain remover.
• Wash or shampoo: If the rug is washable, follow the care instructions on the label. For larger rugs, you may need to rent a carpet cleaner or hire a professional cleaning service.
• Deodorize with baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the rug, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
• Air dry: Allow the rug to air dry completely. You can use fans to speed up the drying process.

How to Get Pet Smell Out of Blankets

The methods for removing dog smell are generally applicable to other pets as well. However, it’s essential to consider the specific animal and any unique odor challenges they may present. For example, cats may leave behind a stronger urine odor that requires specialized cleaning products.

Preventing Dog Smell in Blankets

Preventing dog smell in the first place is always easier than removing it. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

• Regular grooming: Regularly brushing your dog helps to minimize shedding and reduce the amount of fur and dander that ends up on your blankets.
• Bath time: Bathing your dog regularly, using a dog-specific shampoo, helps to control odor.
• Designated dog blankets: Consider having designated blankets for your dog to use, which can be washed more frequently.
• Protective covers: Use a blanket cover or sheet over your favorite blankets to create a barrier against fur and odor.
• Vacuum regularly: Vacuum your furniture and floors regularly to remove pet hair and dander, which can contribute to blanket odor.

Conclusion

Dog ownership comes with many joys, and a little dog smell is often part of the package. However, with the right cleaning and prevention strategies, you can keep your blankets fresh, clean, and free from lingering doggy odors.

Remember to choose the right detergent and washing techniques for your blanket material, and don’t hesitate to incorporate natural odor-busters like baking soda and vinegar. Regular grooming and bathing your dog can also significantly reduce the amount of odor transferred to your blankets.

By following the tips and methods outlined in this guide, you can enjoy cozy nights snuggled up in your favorite blankets, without the worry of unwanted dog smell.

FAQs

Some of the frequently inquired questions about ways to get dog smell out of blankets are given as:

Can I use Febreze on blankets to remove dog smell?

While Febreze can temporarily mask the dog odor, it doesn’t eliminate the source of the smell. For long-term odor removal, you need to wash the blanket with an appropriate detergent and consider using natural additives like baking soda or vinegar.

How can I remove dog urine smell from blankets?

For urine accidents, it’s crucial to act quickly. Blot up as much urine as possible, then rinse the area with cold water. Wash the blanket with an enzyme-based detergent and add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. If the odor persists, you may need to repeat the washing process or consider a specialized pet odor remover.

Is it safe to use dryer sheets on blankets that my dog uses?

Dryer sheets can contain chemicals and fragrances that may irritate your dog’s skin or cause respiratory issues. It’s best to avoid using dryer sheets on blankets that your dog frequently uses. Instead, opt for wool dryer balls or simply air dry the blanket.

How often should I wash my dog’s blankets?

The frequency of washing depends on how often your dog uses the blanket and how much they shed. A good rule of thumb is to wash dog blankets at least once a week, or more frequently if they become visibly soiled or have a strong odor.

Can I use essential oils to freshen dog blankets?

While some essential oils can be safe for dogs, it’s important to choose oils that are non-toxic and avoid applying them directly to the blanket. You can add a few drops of essential oil to wool dryer balls or a spray bottle with water to lightly mist the blanket. Always research the safety of essential oils for your specific dog breed before use.