How to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets (Top 6 Methods)

Gone are the days when we confined our dogs to the outdoors or kept them as working companions. These days, we do more than allow them into our homes; we cuddle with them in our beds and sofas. We even take them to dinners in our favorite hotel or on holidays.

We are emotionally attached to our dogs and can do almost everything together. Unfortunately, our favorite pups tend to leave pet odors on our furniture and bedding. This can be quite uncomfortable, especially if you don’t know how to get dog smell out of blankets.

6 Methods You Can Use to Get Dog Smell Out of Your Blankets and Beddings

Generally, the amount of time the pet odor lingers in the blanket varies with the material. Bad smell can linger for months in synthetic blankets. 

But the smell can dissipate faster if your blanket is made from wool or cotton. 

So, how do you remove pet smells? Let’s find out.

1. Vinegar

Apple cider and white vinegar can do wonders on your smelly blankets. However, the quantity of apple cider vinegar to use will be determined by the intensity of the smell. Before you start preparing your mixture, you should prepare your blankets by removing the stain caused by dog pee.

If the blankets are machine washable, remove any loose fur or debris. Shake the blankets outside to dislodge any remaining hair or dirt. If there are any visible stains or spots on the blankets, pre-treat them with a stain remover before washing them.

Next, prepare your mixture by mixing 1 part apple cider vinegar with three parts water. Pour the apple cider vinegar mixture into your spray bottle and mist your stinky blanket. Let the blanket sit for about 20 minutes in the open air, and then wash it.

If vinegar doesn’t do the trick, you can mix vinegar with detergent and warm water and machine wash the dog blankets.

2. Borax

Borax can help remove dog smells from blankets due to its deodorizing and cleaning properties. After removing the dog fur and stain, add your normal laundry detergent and include 1/2 cup to 1 cup of Borax. The quantity will depend on the load’s size and the odor’s intensity.

Wash the blanket following the care instructions on the label. If your washing machine has an extra rinse cycle, use it to get rid of all detergent and Borax residue. Dry the blanket in a dryer or air-dry it, depending on the care instructions. The heat can help remove dog smell.

Ensure the blanket is suitable for washing with Borax by checking the care instructions. 

While Borax is generally safe for most fabrics, it’s always a good idea to perform a spot test. 

Pour a few drops on a small, inconspicuous blanket area to ensure compatibility. If safe then you can continue washing the blankets in warm water.

3. Baking Soda

Baking soda is another reliable deodorizing agent that can eliminate the bad pet odors trapped in your blankets. All you have to do is sprinkle some baking soda on your blankets and let it sit on them for about half an hour.

The longer the baking soda stays on the blanket, the better it will function.

After you’re sure the smell has been eliminated by the baking soda, you can vacuum the blanket. You can also use the Hammer Super washing soda to eliminate the dog smell. 

4. Deodorizing Spray

Folks who don’t have time to wash their blankets can try deodorizing agents. The deodorizing spray can be a lifesaver for anyone with a busy schedule or a working parent. Plus, it is safe for both you and your pets.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

Like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide can come in handy when removing the dog smell in your blankets. Mix a cup of detergent with a cup of hydrogen peroxide and pour the mixture into the washing machine. Wash the blanket your usual way.

Hydrogen peroxide isn’t safe for all fabrics as it’s known for fading away the color of some fabrics. 

Therefore, you should read the safety instructions in the booklet before using hydrogen peroxide.

6. Ozone Machine

If the above methods don’t work or can ruin your blankets, you should try the ozone machine. This machine is quite effective and can eliminate any smell, including dog odor. It can do the trick when everything fails, but ensure it’s safe for your blankets.

Dry the Blankets After Eliminating the Dog Odor

After washing the blankets, you may wonder how to effectively dry them to remove pet smells. Here are a few reliable tips:

Hang Them Outside Under the Sun

The main cause of the pet smells, or any other form of smell, is the bacteria, so you will need the UV rays to eliminate them. You can try hanging the blanket outside in the sun. Besides the UV rays, the fresh air can eliminate the lingering odor.

Perfumes Drying Sheets

You can also place some dryer sheets between the blankets per instructions. Make sure the scented products are safe for your pet before using them. Remember, you will still be cuddling with your pet on your bed every night.