How to Get Dog Smell Out of a Couch: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

A couch used by a dog, whether it’s a dedicated dog couch, dog sofa, or a plush pet couch, absorbs scents faster than almost any other pet accessory. Natural oils, damp fur, saliva, and occasional accidents slowly settle into the fabric and foam, creating a stubborn odor that lingers even after surface cleaning.

The goal is simple: remove dog smell from a couch completely and safely, without damaging the fabric or masking the odor with temporary fragrance. This guide provides one complete cleaning process that removes everything from light smells to deep odors, restoring your couch’s freshness.

What Causes Dog Smell to Settle in a Couch

Dog odor doesn’t come from one single source. Often, multiple factors contribute silently until the smell becomes noticeable. Understanding these helps you clean smarter and avoid re-cleaning the same areas.

• Natural Oils from Fur: Dogs produce natural oils that transfer to the couch every time they sit or rest. Over days and weeks, these oils create a musky scent embedded in the fabric.
• Moisture from Wet Fur: Damp fur leaves moisture deep in the fibers. This moisture holds odor and encourages a sour, musty smell.
• Paw Dirt and Outdoor Debris: Dogs track in dust, soil, pollen, and mud. These tiny particles cling inside the fabric and add to odor buildup.
• Drool and Saliva: Dry saliva contains bacteria that produce odor. Dogs often chew toys or clean themselves on the couch, leaving residue behind.
• Urine, Damp Spots, or Hidden Accidents: Even a tiny accident can cause a deep, sharp smell because urine seeps into foam and seams.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Dog Smell Out of a Couch

Dog smell builds up inside a couch gradually, especially when oils, moisture, and dirt settle unnoticed. To remove it fully, follow the structured cleaning process below, starting from surface debris and working down to deeper layers.

Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly to Remove Loose Odor Sources

Before tackling any odors, start by vacuuming the couch thoroughly. This removes the debris that collects dog odor and gets the couch ready for the next cleaning steps.

Before using any liquids, remove:

• hair
• dander
• dirt
• crumbs
• dust
• loose oils

Use an upholstery attachment and vacuum:

• the seating area
• seams
• corners
• between cushions
• under cushions

Why this matters: Dog smell clings to debris. Removing it ensures deeper cleaning works effectively.

Step 2: Apply Baking Soda to Lift General Odor from the Fabric

Baking soda naturally absorbs odor from the upper layers of the couch.

How to use:

1. Sprinkle a thick, even layer over the entire couch.
2. Let it sit for several hours or overnight.
3. Vacuum thoroughly.

What this step does: It removes general dog smell caused by oils, moderate moisture, and everyday use.

Step 3: Use a Vinegar Mist to Neutralize Remaining Surface Odor

Vinegar breaks down molecules causing mild to moderate dog smell without damaging most fabrics.

How to apply:

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
2. Mist lightly across the couch (avoid soaking).
3. Let it air dry fully.

Why this step helps: It neutralizes odor chemically rather than masking it.

Step 4: Treat Stains That Hold Smell

Now that the general odor is under control, focus on any stains that may still be holding smell. Even small or hidden spots can continue releasing odor if not treated properly.

Common odor-carrying stains include:

• dried saliva marks
• mud or soil spots
• food droppings
• darkened patches from oils
• sweat marks

How to treat stains:

1. Apply a mild pet-safe stain remover or diluted detergent.
2. Work gently in circular motions.
3. Blot with a damp microfiber cloth to remove residue.

Step 5: Air Out the Couch to Release Lingering Smell

Once stains and surface odors are treated, give the couch time to breathe. Proper airflow helps release the deeper odor molecules that have loosened during cleaning, ensuring the smell doesn’t return.

Step 6: Remove Dog Urine Smell (If Present)

Urine odor is the strongest smell and needs enzyme cleaning because enzymes break down odor-causing proteins.

For fresh urine:

1. Blot gently with paper towels.
2. Do not rub, rubbing pushes urine deeper.

For dried urine or strong smell:

1. Apply enzyme cleaner generously (enough to reach the foam).
2. Let it sit for the full recommended duration.
3. Blot out excess moisture.

Let the spot air dry slowly: Fast drying with heat can trap odor instead of removing it.

Step 7: Clean the Couch Cover (If Detachable)

If your couch has a removable cover, washing it removes deep, embedded smells.

How to wash the cover:

• Use mild detergent
• Avoid fabric softener
• Choose warm (not hot) water
• Air dry to prevent shrinking

Step 8: Deep Clean the Foam Insert (If Odor Persists)

If the dog smell is still noticeable after washing the outer cover, the odor is likely trapped inside the foam. Foam absorbs oils, moisture, and urine more deeply than fabric, so cleaning it ensures the smell is removed from the couch completely.

How to clean the foam insert:

• Fill a tub or basin with warm water.
• Add a small amount of mild, pet-safe detergent.
• Submerge the foam gently, do not twist or wring.
• Press the foam repeatedly to release trapped odor and dirt.
• Rinse until the water runs clear.

For urine or strong odor:

• Apply an enzyme cleaner to both sides of the foam.
• Let it sit for the full recommended time.
• Blot away excess liquid and allow it to air dry fully.

Step 9: Prevent Dog Smell From Returning

Once the couch is fresh, simple habits help it stay that way longer.

• Use washable blankets on top
• Clean paws after walks
• Brush your dog regularly
• Don’t allow a wet dog on the couch

Dog smell doesn’t have to become a permanent part of your Dog Sofa. With the right method, even stubborn dog odours can be lifted out of the fabric and foam layer by layer. Once your couch is clean, simple habits, like using washable covers, brushing your dog regularly, and keeping paws clean, help maintain freshness for the long term. A little routine care ensures your dog’s favourite spot stays comfortable and smell-free day after day.

FAQs

1. What if the dog smell is only in one specific spot on the couch?

Localized odor usually means that area absorbed more oils, drool, or a minor accident. Treat just that spot with enzyme cleaner or a vinegar mist after vacuuming. Targeted cleaning often solves the issue without deep-cleaning the entire couch.

2. How do I remove dog smell from a couch when I can’t take the cushions outside?

If outdoor airing isn’t possible, create indoor airflow using a fan positioned directly toward the couch. Open nearby windows to increase circulation. This helps lift odor particles and speeds drying just as effectively as outdoor shade.

3. Can dog smell be removed from an old couch with worn-out fabric?

Older fabric absorbs oils more deeply, so cleaning may take longer. Use repeated enzyme treatments and allow extended airing time. Adding a washable slipcover afterward helps maintain freshness even if the original material has aged.

4. Is it safe to use scented sprays to cover dog smell?

Scented sprays only mask odor temporarily and can mix with dog smell, making it worse. They don’t neutralize organic odor molecules. Pet-safe enzyme cleaners or natural deodorizing methods work far better and won’t irritate your dog.