Did you know that, as of 2016, an estimated 62% of Australian households are home to a pet? And with a population of approximately 4.8 million, dogs remain the most loved pet among families. We're clearly fond of them and consider them as part of the family, but if you're one of the 3.6 million households who own a dog or two, then you would know the havoc they can sometimes cause at home, particularly on our carpets and furniture!

While we enjoy having them inside the house, cuddling with them on the sofa, or snuggling with them in bed, we can't deny that they leave a distinct dog smell on our carpet, couches and beds. Even the most enthusiastic dog lovers among us may not find this dog smell appealing, especially if we are expecting guests! If you want to prevent your home from smelling like a pup in need of a good washing, here are some easy ways to get rid of dog odour from your carpets, couches and other furnishings.

Tip #1 – Use removable slipcovers or cushion covers on your couch and chairs.

This makes top-level washing and stain removal much easier and more efficient, as you can quickly take them off and wash them as needed.

Tip #2 – Be thorough.

Take the cushions, pillows, and blankets from your couch and vacuum everything thoroughly. Get into the crevices of the furniture to remove any fur that may have gathered. On the floors, make sure to clean under all of the furniture and in the corners, where pet hair may to collect.

Tip #3 – Use a combination of powder laundry detergent and apple cider vinegar.

Wash all of your linens, blankets and cushion covers in a mix of powered laundry detergent and a ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar. Vinegar can help neutralise smelly odours. There are also pet odour removers available at pet supply stores, but you may find that home remedies can be equally, if not more, effective.

Tip #4 – Deodorise carpets and couches with baking soda.

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on carpets, rugs and couches using a cleaning brush to spread it around and into the fabric. Leave it for several hours or, if possible, overnight so that the baking soda can best absorb the odours. Then vacuum thoroughly.

If you plan to shampoo your carpet, make sure that you neutralise the smell first by using baking soda. The last thing you want is the combined smell of dog odour and perfumed shampoo!

Tip #5 – Keep your pet well-groomed.

Make sure they get regular baths, haircuts and nail trimmings. If they're clean, then it would be easier to keep nasty dog odours at bay. Also, regularly clean your dog's ears to prevent yeast build-up, as yeast can produce a very distinct and unpleasant smell.

Tip #6 – Regularly schedule a professional carpet cleaning service.

If you have pets who spend their time primarily indoors with you, your carpets may need cleaning at between 6 to 9 months. Pet hair, dirt, dander and whatever they've rolled in will find its way into the carpet fibre and settle.

Sometimes you might not see a dirty patch but you may smell that unmistakable pet odour or, if you sit on the carpet, find your skin becoming irritated.  A regular professional steam clean will remove all the built-up dirt buried in the carpet pile.

Following these simple tips can help you get rid of any nasty dog smell at home. However, if the dog odour and stains on carpets and couches are proving to be hard to remove, call in the cleaning experts at Wizard. Our team provides professional steam carpet cleaning, couch and mattress cleaning. We also use eco-friendly and pet-friendly products that will not harm the health of your family and your pets.