How to get rid of the smell of a dog on a sofa? - briefly
To eliminate dog odor from a sofa, thoroughly vacuum the surface and apply a mixture of baking soda and water, letting it sit before wiping clean; for persistent smells, use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner.
How to get rid of the smell of a dog on a sofa? - in detail
To effectively eliminate the smell of a dog from a sofa, start by thoroughly vacuuming the surface to remove loose hair, dander, and dirt. Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to reach crevices and seams. Next, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the sofa and let it sit for at least 15-30 minutes; baking soda naturally absorbs odors. Afterward, vacuum the baking soda away. For deeper cleaning, create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, adding a few drops of mild dish soap. Test this solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric. Using a clean cloth or sponge, gently dab the mixture onto the affected areas, avoiding over-saturation. Blot with a dry towel to remove excess moisture. For stubborn odors, consider using an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet odors, as it breaks down the organic compounds causing the smell. Allow the sofa to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. To prevent future odors, regularly groom your dog, use a pet-safe fabric freshener, and consider placing a washable cover on the sofa for easy maintenance.