How to get rid of the smell of a dog on clothes? - briefly
To eliminate dog odor from clothing, pre-treat stains with an enzymatic cleaner or dish soap, then wash in hot water with a detergent containing baking soda or vinegar. Ensure to air dry the garments outside if possible.
How to get rid of the smell of a dog on clothes? - in detail
To effectively eliminate the smell of a dog from your clothing, you need to address both the odor and any lingering bacteria that may be causing it. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this:
Firstly, pre-treat your clothes with a mixture of baking soda and water. Baking soda is known for its natural odor-absorbing properties. Mix one cup of baking soda with two cups of water until it forms a paste. Apply this paste to the affected areas of your clothing and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even longer if possible. The longer it sits, the more effective it will be in neutralizing odors.
After allowing the baking soda mixture to work its magic, wash your clothes as you normally would, using a detergent specifically designed to combat pet odors. Regular detergents may not be strong enough to eliminate the smell completely. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners or dryer sheets during this process, as they can leave behind residues that could trap odors.
If the smell persists even after washing with a specialized detergent, consider soaking your clothes in a solution of white vinegar and water. Vinegar is another natural odor neutralizer that can help break down any remaining bacteria or odor-causing particles. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water, and let your clothes soak in this solution for at least an hour before washing again.
Another effective method to eliminate dog smells from clothing is to use enzymatic cleaners. Enzymes work by breaking down the proteins that cause odors, making them particularly useful for tackling pet-related smells. Apply the enzymatic cleaner directly to the affected areas, following the instructions provided on the product label. Allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time before washing your clothes as usual.
In between washes, you can also use odor-absorbing products such as activated charcoal or zeolite to help keep dog smells at bay. These products can be placed in closets, drawers, or near laundry baskets to absorb any lingering odors and prevent them from transferring to your clean clothes.
Lastly, ensure that you're drying your clothes properly after washing. High heat can help eliminate any remaining odors by killing bacteria and evaporating moisture. If possible, hang your clothes outside in the sun, as sunlight is a natural disinfectant that can also aid in eliminating odors.
By following these detailed steps, you should be able to effectively remove dog smells from your clothing and maintain fresh, clean garments.