Today, we want to share some helpful tips with you on how to eliminate that unpleasant dog poop smell from your upholstery. We all adore our furry friends, but accidents happen, and when they do, it can be quite a challenge to remove the lingering odor. But fear not! With our simple and effective techniques, you’ll be able to say goodbye to the stench and restore the freshness to your beloved furniture. Stick around, and we’ll guide you through the process step by step.
How Do You Get Dog Poop Smell Out Of Upholstery?
Table of Contents
Removing Fresh Dog Poop From Your Couch or Other Furniture
Using Disposable Gloves
When faced with the unpleasant task of removing fresh dog poop from upholstery, the first step is to protect ourselves by wearing disposable gloves. Not only does this prevent any direct contact with the feces, but it also ensures a hygienic and clean process throughout. Disposable gloves can be easily found at local drugstores or supermarkets.
Scraping off Excess Poop
Once we have our gloves on, it’s time to gently scrape off any excess poop from the upholstery. This can be done using a plastic bag turned inside out, a plastic scraper, or even an old credit card. It’s important to be gentle during this step to avoid pushing the feces further into the fabric or spreading it around.
Blotting with Paper Towels
After removing the excess poop, the next step is to blot the affected area with paper towels. Carefully press the paper towels onto the stain, absorbing as much moisture as possible. It’s crucial to avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can cause the stain to spread or work the feces deeper into the upholstery fibers.
Applying an Enzymatic Cleaner
To further eliminate the dog poop smell, it’s recommended to use an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet stains. These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the organic compounds in the feces, effectively neutralizing odors. Follow the instructions on the cleaner and apply it generously to the stain. Allow it to sit for the recommended time before blotting it up with clean paper towels.
Removing Dried Dog Poop
Vacuuming the Area
When dealing with dried dog poop on upholstery, the first step is to remove any loose debris by vacuuming the affected area. This helps to loosen the dried feces and eliminate any loose particles that might contribute to the odor. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush or upholstery attachment to carefully remove as much of the dried poop as possible.
Treating with Vinegar Solution
To tackle the remaining dried residue and eliminate odors, a vinegar solution can be highly effective. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and then generously spray the solution onto the stained area. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to loosen the dried poop, and then blot it up with clean paper towels.
Using Baking Soda
Baking soda is renowned for its odor-neutralizing properties and can work wonders in removing stubborn smells from upholstery. After blotting up the vinegar solution, sprinkle baking soda usually a generous amount of baking soda onto the stain. Gently rub it into the fabric, allowing it to penetrate and absorb any remaining odors. Leave the baking soda on for several hours or overnight, and then vacuum it up the following day.
Applying Odor-Neutralizing Spray
To complete the process of removing dried dog poop smell from upholstery, an enzyme cleaner or odor-neutralizing spray can be the perfect finishing touch. Look for a pet-specific spray that contains ingredients designed to eliminate odors rather than simply masking them. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the spray evenly over the affected area to leave your sofa upholstery smelling fresh and clean.
Using Professional Upholstery Cleaning Services to Remove Pet Odor
Researching Local Cleaning Services
In some cases, it may be best to leave the task of removing dog poop smells from upholstery to the professionals. Researching local upholstery cleaning services in your area is the first step in finding a reputable and reliable service provider. Look for established companies with positive customer reviews and a track record of delivering high-quality results.
Getting Recommendations
Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations on upholstery cleaning services they have used in the past. Personal referrals are often a reliable way to find trustworthy professionals who excel in their field. Additionally, online review platforms can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other customers and help you make an informed decision.
Comparing Prices and Services
Once you have a list of potential upholstery cleaning services, it’s essential to compare their prices and services. Request quotes or estimates from each company, ensuring that they include the specific requirements of removing dog poop smells. Take note of any additional services offered, such as deodorizing or stain removal, and consider their level of expertise and customer satisfaction when making your final decision.
Preventing Dog Poop Smells in Upholstery
Training Your Dog Properly
One of the most effective ways to prevent dog poop smells from permeating your upholstery is by training your dog properly. Encourage regular bathroom breaks and establish a consistent routine for potty breaks outside. By teaching your dog to eliminate in designated areas and providing positive reinforcement, you can significantly reduce the chances of accidents and any associated smells.
Regularly Cleaning Your Dog’s Living Space
Regularly cleaning your dog’s living space is crucial in preventing odors from seeping into your upholstery. This includes cleaning your dog’s bed, crate, or any areas where they spend a significant amount of time. Use pet-friendly cleaning products to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for your furry friend, as well as to keep your upholstery smelling fresh.
Promptly Cleaning Up Accidents
Accidents happen, but swift action is essential to prevent dog poop smells from lingering in your upholstery. As soon as an accident occurs, follow the steps mentioned above for removing fresh dog poop from upholstery. The quicker you act, the better chance you have of preventing any odors from setting in.
Using Furniture Coverings or Protective Sprays
Consider using furniture coverings or protective sprays to create a barrier between your dog and your upholstery. These can be particularly useful if you have a dog who tends to have accidents or enjoys lounging on your furniture. Furniture coverings can be easily removed and laundered, while protective sprays can help repel liquids and reduce the risk of permanent stains or odors.
Alternative Methods to Remove Dog Poop Smells
Using Commercial Upholstery Cleaners
If the DIY methods mentioned earlier do not completely eliminate the dog poop smell from your upholstery, you might want to consider using commercial upholstery cleaners. These products are specifically formulated for tackling tough stains and odors, including those caused by pet accidents. Always follow the instructions on the cleaner’s packaging and test it on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to your upholstery.
Trying Natural Home Remedies
For those who prefer natural remedies, several household items can help eliminate dog poop smells from upholstery. These include white vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and lemon juice. Experiment with different mixtures and solutions to find the one that works best for your specific situation. Remember, it’s important to spot test any homemade remedies on a small area first and proceed with caution.
Using Steam Cleaners or Carpet Extractors
Steam cleaners or carpet extractors can be a highly effective method for removing dog poop smells from upholstery. These machines use hot water and cleaning solutions to penetrate deep into the upholstery fibers, effectively lifting and removing stains and odors. However, always check the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that your upholstery is suitable for steam cleaning before proceeding.
In conclusion, tackling dog poop smells in upholstery requires a systematic approach and the right tools and products. Whether dealing with fresh or dried poop, using disposable gloves, scraping off excess poop, blotting with paper towels, and applying enzymatic cleaners can help eliminate odors. For dried poop, vacuuming, treating with vinegar solution, using baking soda, and applying odor-neutralizing spray are effective methods. If the task feels too daunting, professional upholstery cleaning services can provide expert help.
Preventing dog poop smells involves training your dog, regularly cleaning its living space, promptly cleaning up accidents, and considering furniture coverings or protective sprays. Alternative methods such as commercial upholstery cleaners, natural home remedies, or steam cleaners can be utilized if needed. By following these steps, you can successfully remove dog poop smells from upholstery and enjoy a fresh and clean living space.
