PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists 
Key Takeaways
- Dog odors linger due to natural oils, saliva, pet dander, and humidity trapped in blanket fibers.
- Soaking blankets in vinegar and adding baking soda during washing effectively neutralizes pet smells.
- Using enzyme-based pet-safe detergents breaks down deep-seated organic odors better than regular soap.
- Sun-drying blankets kills bacteria naturally and prevents mildew buildup.
- For persistent odors, professional odor control services can deeply sanitize and restore freshness.
If you’re trying to get dog smell out of blankets, you’re definitely not alone. As much as we love our furry companions, the lingering odor they leave behind on fabrics can be a challenge—especially in warm, humid areas like Zephyrhills, FL, where odors tend to stick around even longer. Whether it’s your pet’s favorite throw on the couch or the blanket they snuggle with at night, that stubborn scent can make your home feel less fresh and inviting.
Thankfully, with the right methods—and a little know-how—you can remove dog smell from blankets without harsh chemicals or expensive replacements. In this blog, we’ll walk you through practical tips for odor removal, explain why dog smells linger, and share how professional deodorization and odor control services can help when DIY solutions fall short.
Why Your Dog’s Smell Stays in Blankets
Dog blankets can quickly develop a stubborn odor that doesn’t go away with a quick wash. To effectively get dog smell out of blankets, it’s important to understand the hidden causes behind these lingering smells and how everyday habits contribute to the issue.
- Natural oils from your dog’s skin – Dogs secrete oils that soak into fabrics, especially when they lie on the same blanket daily.
- Saliva and sweat residue – Drool, licking, and paw sweat can leave behind lingering scents that fabrics absorb quickly.
- Trapped pet hair and dander – Hair and dead skin cells carry odor and get embedded deep into blanket fibers.
- Humidity and moisture – Damp environments promote odor-causing bacteria and mildew growth inside the fabric.
- Infrequent washing – Regular use with delayed cleaning allows odors to intensify and settle in.
- Bacteria and microbes – Microorganisms from your dog’s body or paws can thrive in fabrics and cause bad smells.
- Thick or absorbent materials – Heavy blankets like fleece or sherpa hold onto oils and odors more than lighter fabrics.
- Contact with floors and outdoor dirt – Blankets that touch dirty surfaces or are dragged around can absorb outside smells and debris.
Top Tips to Get Dog Smell Out of Blankets
Regular washing doesn’t always eliminate stubborn pet odors, especially when they’ve built up over time. To effectively get dog smell out of blankets, try these proven techniques that go beyond basic laundering. Each tip is designed to target odors at their source and restore freshness.
1. Soak the Blanket in White Vinegar Before Washing
Pre-soaking your blanket in a solution of white vinegar and warm water helps break down the bacteria and oils that cause odors. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes bad smells without harsh chemicals. Let the blanket soak for 30 minutes before running it through a wash cycle. This extra step can make a major difference, especially for heavily used pet bedding that’s absorbed layers of oils and dander.
2. Add Baking Soda to Your Washing Machine
Baking soda works as a natural, gentle odor eliminator that boosts the effectiveness of your laundry detergent. Sprinkle about half a cup into the drum or detergent tray before starting the wash. It helps absorb and neutralize the pet smells that cling to fabrics. For persistent odors, you can pair it with vinegar during a pre-soak or even repeat the wash for a deeper clean.
3. Use a Pet-Safe Enzyme Detergent
Enzyme-based detergents are specially formulated to break down organic stains and odors from pets, including oils, saliva, and dander. These products penetrate fabric fibers more deeply than standard detergents. Choose a formula labeled as pet-safe to avoid skin irritation for your furry friend. This method is especially effective when used in hot water and paired with a long wash cycle for maximum odor removal.
4. Air Dry the Blanket in Direct Sunlight
Drying your blanket outdoors in the sun is one of the most effective natural ways to eliminate odor. Sunlight’s UV rays help kill bacteria and freshen the fabric without artificial scents. Be sure to spread the blanket flat or hang it so all areas are exposed. This method not only removes smell but also helps prevent mildew that can develop when blankets are dried indoors without ventilation.
5. Groom Your Dog Regularly to Reduce Odor Buildup
Regular grooming reduces the oils and dander that transfer from your pet to their bedding. Brushing your dog daily and giving them regular baths with a gentle, pet-safe shampoo minimizes the amount of odor-causing debris that collects on blankets. Clean paws and coats also mean less dirt and bacteria are carried into your pet’s sleeping areas, helping you maintain a fresher-smelling home overall.
6. Call In Professional Odor Control Services for Tough Smells
If odors linger even after repeated washes, it may be time to call in experts like PuroClean. Professional deodorization services go beyond surface cleaning using advanced techniques like ozone treatment or thermal fogging to neutralize deep-set pet odors. These services are especially useful for households with multiple pets or pets that have accidents. A professional cleaning can restore even the most odor-saturated fabrics to freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my dog’s blankets?
Ideally, wash your dog’s blankets once a week or more if they’re used daily. Frequent cleaning helps prevent odor buildup and keeps bacteria and allergens at bay. Consistent washing also prolongs the life of the blanket and keeps your home smelling fresh.
What fabric holds dog smells the most?
Thicker, absorbent materials like fleece, wool, or plush blankets tend to hold dog smells more than lighter fabrics. These materials trap oils and dander deep within their fibers. Using odor-resistant or washable covers can help minimize lingering smells in these types of blankets.
Can dog smell be removed completely from blankets?
Yes, with the right cleaning methods and products, most dog smells can be removed completely. However, if the odor has been present for a long time or the blanket is heavily soiled, it may take repeated washes—or even a professional cleaning—to fully restore freshness.
When should I consider professional odor removal services?
If you’ve tried multiple washes and the dog smell still lingers, or if the blanket has absorbed urine or other biohazards, professional services like those offered by PuroClean can help. These services use advanced tools and products to remove deep odors and sanitize the fabric thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with persistent pet odors can be frustrating, but you don’t have to settle for blankets that smell less than fresh. By understanding why odors stick, following simple yet effective cleaning techniques, and staying consistent with washing, you can successfully get dog smell out of blankets and keep your home comfortable and odor-free.
At PuroClean Zephyrhills, we offer professional odor removal and deodorization services using advanced equipment and pet-safe products to eliminate stubborn smells from your living space. Whether you’re dealing with pet odors or other unpleasant scents, we’re here to restore a fresh, welcoming environment. Contact us today to schedule a service or learn more about how we can help you enjoy a cleaner, healthier home.
PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists 