How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets? (A Complete Guide!)

Are you struggling with that lingering dog smell on your blankets? Well, worry no more!

In this article, we will share some simple yet effective tips to help you get rid of that stubborn dog odor and leave your blankets smelling fresh again.

So let’s dive right in and discover how to banish those unwanted pet odors from your favorite cozy blankets!

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets?

Has the dog smell permeated into your beloved blankets? No problem! We’ve got you covered.

This article is here to provide you with practical solutions for eliminating the pesky scent and restoring freshness to your cherished covers.

Whether it’s caused by outdoor adventures or snuggling sessions with your four-legged companion indoors, our tried-and-tested techniques will make sure that unpleasant dog odor becomes a thing of the past.

Say goodbye to smelly blankets and hello to a clean and inviting atmosphere – let’s delve into the secrets of banishing dog smells from any blanket!

Why Do Blankets Smell Like Dogs?

Blankets can develop a distinct smell when they come into contact with dogs. This odor is primarily caused by the following factors:

1. Natural Oils and Sweat: Dogs naturally produce oils that help keep their skin healthy and moisturized. These oils, along with their sweat, can transfer onto blankets when they lay or rub against them.
2. Dander: Similar to humans, dogs shed dead skin cells known as dander. When dogs snuggle up on blankets, these tiny particles can be left behind, contributing to the doggy smell.
3. Bacteria and Microorganisms: Dogs carry various bacteria and microorganisms on their fur that may transfer to blankets through direct contact. These microbes can multiply over time, leading to an unpleasant odor.
4. Urine or Accidents: Sometimes accidents happen, especially if your dog isn’t fully house-trained yet or has health issues. Urine stains and odors are particularly challenging to remove from blankets.

To better understand why blankets retain dog smells, it’s important to consider the materials used in their construction:

Material	Dog Odor Retention
Fabric	Some fabrics have a higher affinity for absorbing odors than others. Porous materials like fleece or wool tend to trap smells more easily compared to synthetic options such as polyester or nylon.
Padding/Fill	Blankets with thick padding or fillings provide spaces for odors to become trapped within fibers or stuffing material, making it harder for fresh air circulation which leads to lingering smells.

Regularly washing your dog’s bedding will help combat the “doggy” odor problem associated with blankets while ensuring good hygiene for both you and your furry friend.

Identifying the Source of the Dog Smell:

When trying to get rid of dog smell from blankets, it’s important to first identify the source of the odor.

By pinpointing where the smell is coming from, you can effectively target your cleaning efforts and ensure a fresh and clean blanket. Here are some steps to help you identify the source:

1. Sniff Test: Begin by giving your blanket a good sniff to locate areas with a strong doggy odor. Pay attention to any specific spots or regions that stand out.
2. Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the blanket for visible signs of dirt, stains, or soiling caused by your furry friend. Look for discoloration, hair accumulation, or obvious messes.
3. Focus on Problem Areas: Concentrate on areas where dogs tend to leave their scent behind more frequently like corners, edges, or places they usually lay down on.
4. Check for Urine Stains: Use a blacklight flashlight in dim lighting conditions to detect any hidden urine stains that may not be easily visible under normal light.
5. Consider Washing History: If your blanket has been washed recently but still retains an unpleasant dog smell, it could indicate residue buildup in your washing machine or dryer.
6. Note Additional Factors: Take into account other factors that may contribute to the odor such as pet accidents on furniture near where you store blankets or dirty paws coming into contact with them regularly.
7. Ask Others’ Opinion: Seek input from family members or friends who have sensitive noses as they might notice lingering smells that you’ve become nose-blind towards.

By following these steps and identifying where exactly the dog smell is originating from, you will be well-equipped to tackle the issue head-on and eliminate those unwanted odors effectively before moving onto further cleaning methods

Prepping Your Blanket for Cleaning:

When it comes to getting rid of that stubborn dog smell from your blankets, proper preparation is key.

Follow these steps to ensure your blanket is ready for a deep clean:

1. Shake it out: Take the blanket outside and give it a good shake to remove any loose dirt or hair.
2. Pre-treat stains: If there are any visible stains on the blanket, pre-treat them before washing. Use a stain remover or apply a mixture of water and laundry detergent directly onto the stained area.
3. Check care instructions: Before proceeding with any cleaning method, check the care label on your blanket for specific instructions. Some blankets may require special handling or have limitations on certain cleaning methods.
4. Choose the right temperature: For most blankets, warm water will be sufficient to remove odors effectively without damaging the fabric. However, always refer to the care label for recommended water temperature.
5. Separate colors: If you have multiple blankets with different colors, wash them separately to prevent color bleeding.
6. Use an odor-neutralizing detergent: Opt for a detergent specifically designed to eliminate odors rather than just masking them with fragrance.
7. Avoid fabric softeners: Fabric softeners may leave behind residue that can trap odors in your blanket fibers. Skip using them during this cleaning process.
8. Consider adding vinegar: Adding half a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle can help break down lingering smells and leave your blanket smelling fresh and clean after washing.

9..Air-dry if possible: Whenever possible, air-drying is preferable as high heat from dryers can set in odors or damage delicate fabrics.

Following these steps will help prepare your blanket for effective odor removal while keeping its quality intact.

Using Vinegar to Remove Dog Odor from Blankets:

f you’re dealing with dog odor on your blankets, vinegar can be a powerful solution.

Not only is it natural and affordable, but it’s also effective in neutralizing odors.

Here’s how you can use vinegar to get rid of that stubborn dog smell:

1. Prepare the materials: Gather the following items before getting started:
   • White distilled vinegar
   • A spray bottle
   • Mild laundry detergent or baking soda (optional)
   • Washing machine
2. Spot treatment:
   • For localized areas with strong odor, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
   • Spray the mixture directly onto the affected area of the blanket.
   • Gently blot or rub the solution into the fabric using a clean cloth or sponge.
3. Soaking method:
   1. Fill a bathtub or large basin with warm water.
   2. Add one cup of white vinegar for every gallon of water used.
   3. Submerge the smelly blanket into the solution and ensure it is fully soaked.
   4. Let it soak for at least one hour, allowing the vinegar to penetrate and eliminate odors.
4. Machine wash:
   1. After soaking, remove the blanket from the tub and drain away excess liquid without rinsing out all of its vinegar content. 2.Toss it into your washing machine along with mild laundry detergent if desired (to mask any remaining vinegary scent). 3.Run a regular cycle using cold water.
5. Drying process: Hang-dry your blanket outdoors if possible as sunlight helps further eliminate odors naturally; otherwise, use gentle heat in your dryer.

Remember to check manufacturer instructions for specific care guidelines before attempting any cleaning method on sensitive fabrics.

Using vinegar is an easy and cost-effective way to combat dog odor on blankets.

Whether you opt for spot treatment or the soaking method, this natural solution can help freshen up your beloved blankets and make them smell like new again!

Baking Soda: A Natural Deodorizer for Dog-Smelling Blankets

If your beloved dog’s blankets have started to develop an unpleasant odor, don’t fret! Baking soda can come to the rescue as a natural and effective deodorizer.

Here’s how you can use it to get rid of that persistent dog smell:

1. Preparation: Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
   • Dog-smelling blankets
   • Baking soda
   • Vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment (optional)
   • Washing machine (if applicable)
2. Spot Treatment:

• Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the affected areas of the blanket.
• Gently rub or brush in the baking soda, ensuring it reaches deep into the fabric fibers.
• Leave the baking soda on for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to thoroughly remove all traces of baking soda.

3. Machine Wash (for washable blankets): If your blanket is machine washable, follow these additional steps after spot treating with baking soda:
   • Place the blanket in your washing machine and add detergent as usual.
   • Add half a cup of baking soda along with your regular laundry detergent.
   • Run a normal cycle using cold water.
   • Once washed, air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
4. Regular Maintenance: To prevent future odors from setting into your dog’s blankets, consider incorporating these simple tips into your routine:

• Shake out and brush off any loose debris from the blankets regularly before spot treating them with baking soda.
• Wash your furry friend’s bedding at least once every two weeks or more frequently if necessary.
• Consider adding half a cup of white vinegar during rinsing when using laundry detergent as it helps neutralize odors effectively.

Remember that each blanket may require different treatment methods depending on the fabric type and level of odor.

It’s always a good idea to check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer before attempting any cleaning method.

Now that you know how baking soda can be a powerful ally in eliminating dog smells from blankets, go ahead and give it a try!

Your fluffy companion will surely appreciate having fresh-smelling blankets to cuddle up on.

Washing Machine Tips for Freshening Up Your Blankets:

If your blankets have absorbed that unmistakable dog smell, don’t worry! With a few simple steps, you can freshen them up using your washing machine.

Here are some tips to get started:

1. Pre-treat any stains: Before tossing the blanket into the washing machine, it’s a good idea to pre-treat any visible stains or spots. Gently rub a stain remover or laundry detergent onto the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes.
2. Choose the right water temperature: Depending on the fabric of your blanket, select an appropriate water temperature setting on your washing machine. Hot water is ideal for removing tough odors and killing bacteria, but make sure not to use hot water if it could damage delicate fabrics.
3. Use an odor-neutralizing detergent: Opt for a high-quality detergent specifically designed to eliminate odors rather than just masking them with fragrance. Look for products that mention “odor neutralizing” or “eliminates pet smells” on their labels.
4. Add vinegar or baking soda: For an extra boost in eliminating stubborn dog smells from blankets, consider adding either white vinegar or baking soda during the wash cycle. Vinegar helps break down odors while also acting as a natural fabric softener, while baking soda absorbs unpleasant smells.
5. Don’t overload the machine: To ensure proper cleaning and rinsing of your blankets, avoid overloading the washing machine with too many items at once. This will allow enough space for thorough agitation and effective removal of dirt and odor-causing particles.
6. Opt for an additional rinse cycle: After completing the regular wash cycle with detergent and additives like vinegar or baking soda, consider running another rinse cycle without any additives to ensure all traces of cleaning agents are removed from your blankets.
7. Dry thoroughly before using: Once washed, dry your blankets thoroughly before using them again. Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to determine whether air-drying or machine drying is recommended. If possible, hang your freshly washed blankets outside in the sun for natural ventilation and added freshness.

Drying and Storing Your Cleaned Dog-Smelling Blankets:

After successfully cleaning your dog-smelling blankets, it’s important to follow the right steps for drying and storing them. Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Dry them thoroughly:
   • Hang the blankets outside in a well-ventilated area.
   • If weather permits, let the sun do its magic by naturally drying the blankets.
   • Alternatively, use a clothesline or a sturdy hanger indoors.
2. Avoid using high heat:
   • Refrain from using high heat methods such as tumble-drying or direct sunlight exposure for extended periods.
   • Excessive heat can damage both fabric fibers and any remaining odor molecules.
3. Air-dry first:
   • Before folding or storing, allow the blankets to air-dry completely.
4. Fold neatly:
   • Once dry, fold your clean blankets carefully to avoid creasing or wrinkling.
5. Store in a clean space:
   • Select an area that is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight.
   • Ensure there are no odorous substances nearby which could potentially transfer smells back onto the blanket.

Remember that cleanliness plays a key role in preventing dog smell from lingering on your freshly cleaned blankets even after drying and storing them properly.

Regular washing will keep your furry friend’s favorite spot smelling fresh!

For more tips on getting rid of dog smell from various surfaces like furniture or carpets, check out our related articles!

Conclusion: How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets?

In conclusion, getting rid of dog smell from blankets is a manageable task that can be achieved with a few simple steps.

By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your blankets stay fresh and odor-free.

Firstly, it’s important to address any immediate stains or messes on the blanket. Acting quickly and using a pet-safe stain remover will help eliminate odors at the source.

Additionally, regular washing of the blankets with an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for removing pet odors can go a long way in keeping them smelling fresh.

Furthermore, proper maintenance is key in preventing dog smells from lingering on blankets.

Regular vacuuming of both sides of the blanket will remove loose fur and dander.

Additionally, airing out the blankets outside or near an open window can help eliminate any remaining odors.