Having pets is fun, and they provide company, but they come with a not-so-pleasant smell that sticks to furniture.
It is possible to eliminate the smell without using chemically derived products and still ensure that your products are safe for your pets and other people in the house.
This article outlines several natural methods of removing pet odor from the furniture and preventing it from returning.
Why Natural Methods Are the Best Choice
Having a pet at home comes with an enjoyable experience, but the smell that comes with it can be quite unpleasant at times.
Some store-bought deodorizers may contain artificial perfumes and other chemicals that are not suitable for use around pets and people.
Natural remedies are a much better way to eliminate the odor without introducing more toxins to the air you breathe.
Step-by-Step Guide on Removing Pet Odor from Furniture
Here is a simple step-by-step guide to effectively remove pet odor from your furniture.
Identifying the Source of the Odor
First, it is essential to determine the cause of the pet odor before attempting to clean it up.
The source of the odor may be from pet dander, fur or even an accident.
Smell the upholstery, cushions, and carpets to see where the smell is most.
If the smell is still there even after cleaning, it may have penetrated the fibers of the fabric, thus requiring a more aggressive approach.
Vacuuming to Remove Pet Hair and Dander
One of the first steps in effective odor removal is thoroughly vacuuming all upholstered furniture.
An upholstery attachment should also be used to reach into cracks and other areas where fur and dander can collect.
A HEPA filter vacuum is an excellent asset in removing allergens and other small particles that cause unpleasant odors.
Using Baking Soda to Absorb Odor
Baking soda naturally neutralizes strong smells and helps absorb odors effectively.
Put some baking soda on your furniture, gently toss it onto the surface, and let it stay for at least 30 minutes.
For strong odors, you should leave it to sit overnight.
After that, you can use the vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda and see how the furniture looks like.
Using White Vinegar as a Natural Deodorizer
Vinegar is also a very efficient and natural way of eliminating the pet smell from the area.
To make the solution, put vinegar and water in a spray bottle in equal proportions.
Shake it and then spray it on the affected areas.
The fluid should be tolerated to dry on its own as vinegar is acidic and eliminates the odor caused by bacteria.
The smell of vinegar disappears when it dries, and the furniture looks and smells better.
Applying a DIY Citrus Spray
One of the most common natural deodorants is citrus peels, as they contain enzymes that can help to get rid of odors.
To make a deodorizing spray for your home, you need to put some orange or lemon peels in white vinegar and leave it for a week.
Make a lemon-scented furniture spray by pouring the strained liquid into a spray bottle.
This infused solution helps break down bacteria and remove odors effectively.
Using Activated Charcoal for Ongoing Odor Control
Activated charcoal is very efficient in absorbing pet odors.
Place small bowls of activated charcoal near affected furniture or hide some sachets between the cushions.
This natural pet odor eliminator absorbs the odor without using artificial fragrances to cover the smell.
Cleaning Fabric with a Dry Upholstery Brush
Pet hair and dander penetrate the furniture fabric; therefore, it is necessary to clean the furniture regularly.
To prevent debris build-up, use a dry upholstery brush to remove it before vacuuming.
This method helps preserve furniture shapes and reduces odor build-up over time.
Sun-Drying Cushions and Covers
Sunlight has antibacterial properties that can be used to remove the pet odor.
If possible, take the cushion covers or the fabric and place them in the sun.
The UV rays kill the bacteria that cause the odor, leaving the material smelling fresher and clean.
Washing Removable Covers and Linens
If your furniture has detachable covers, washing them can reduce the chances of the odor building up.
Use a gentle, pet-safe detergent for the wash cycle, and put half a cup of baking soda or white vinegar into the water.
It is recommended to dry or use low heat to prevent shrinking.
Preventing Future Pet Odors
To prevent pet odors from coming back, cleaning and precautionary steps can be taken.
It is much easier to maintain furniture that has been covered with washable throws or blankets.
This also helps in the control of dander and fur accumulation since these covers are laundered on a weekly basis.
Grooming Pets to Reduce Odors
Pet grooming is very important, and it reduces odors in furniture to a large extent.
Bathing your pet regularly, brushing it regularly, and wiping its paws after taking it for a walk keeps dirt and oil from getting onto the furniture.
Patting your pet with wet wipes that are safe to use also helps keep the natural odor in check.
Training Pets to Avoid Accidents
It is essential to have your pet house trained and their litter box cleaned regularly to prevent odors from urine or accidents.
This way, you can teach your pets to do their business in the right place and reward them for it.
To prevent odors from sticking to the fabric, it is ideal to clean up the accidents right away with an enzyme cleaner.
Keeping Furniture Well Ventilated
Proper ventilation is very important to prevent the pet odors from staying in the furniture.
Opening windows frequently will help to freshen the air in the room.
Using air filters that have carbon activation can also assist in removing the odor from the air in the room.
Cleaning Pet Bedding and Toys Weekly
Pet odors are mostly from their bedding and toys.
Washing these items using a pet-safe detergent each week helps prevent the odor from spreading to the furniture.
Some smells can be trapped in plush toys, so rotate them and, when possible, try sun drying them as well.
Vacuuming Furniture More Frequently
Increasing the vacuuming frequency, particularly in the areas where the pets have the most contact with the floor, prevents the odor from building up.
You can keep your environment fresh with a pet-specific vacuum with strong suction and an odor-neutralizing filter.
Maintain a Fresh Home with Natural Pet Cleaning Tips
You don’t have to live with pet odors in your home.
Baking soda, vinegar, and activated charcoal are all natural cleaning solutions that can be used to freshen furniture without harming it.
Cleaning, grooming and preventive measures should be done regularly to avoid having an unpleasant smell in the house for you and your pets.
If you are searching for a house cleaning service, NW Maids is the way to go for a spotless and odorless home.
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