How to Remove Pet Odors from Upholstered Furniture?

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Pets bring love, comfort, and companionship into our homes-but let’s be honest, they can also bring lingering odors. Whether it’s dog smell, cat urine, or general pet dander, upholstered furniture tends to trap unpleasant odors deep within the fabric and padding. Over time, these smells can make your living space feel unclean and uncomfortable. The good news? You can remove pet odors effectively without harming your furniture-or your furry friends. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through proven, pet-safe upholstery cleaning methods, DIY solutions, and professional tips to restore freshness to your sofa, chairs, and cushions.

Why Upholstered Furniture Holds Pet Odors

Upholstered furniture is made from porous materials like fabric, foam, and padding. These materials easily absorb:
  • Pet hair and dander
  • Saliva and sweat
  • Urine accidents
  • Dirt and bacteria brought in from outside
When moisture mixes with bacteria, it creates strong, persistent odors that vacuuming alone cannot remove. That’s why surface cleaning rarely solves pet odor problems completely.

Common Sources of Pet Odors in Furniture

Understanding the source helps you choose the right cleaning method.

1. Pet Urine

Urine is the toughest odor to remove because it seeps deep into cushions and padding, leaving ammonia-like smells.

2. Wet Dog Smell

Natural oils in a pet’s fur transfer to fabric, especially when pets sit on furniture after baths or rain.

3. Pet Dander and Hair

Even clean pets shed skin cells and hair that trap odors over time.

4. Vomit or Accidents

Digestive accidents can leave behind bacteria that continue to smell if not cleaned properly.

Step-by-Step: How to Remove Pet Odors from Upholstered Furniture

Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly

Before using any liquid cleaner, remove loose dirt, hair, and dander.

Tips:

  • Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter
  • Attach a brush tool for fabric
  • Don’t forget crevices and under cushions
Vacuuming prevents odors from spreading deeper during wet cleaning.

Step 2: Baking Soda for Odor Absorption

Baking soda is one of the safest and most effective odor neutralizers.

How to use:

  1. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the upholstery
  2. Let it sit for 8–12 hours(overnight is best)
  3. Vacuum thoroughly
This method is ideal for mild to moderate odors and is completely safe for pets.

Step 3: Vinegar Solution (For Deeper Odors)

White vinegar neutralizes odor-causing bacteria.

DIY Cleaning Solution:

  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup warm water
  • Optional: a few drops of pet-safe essential oil
Instructions:
  • Lightly mist the fabric (do not soak)
  • Blot with a clean microfiber cloth
  • Allow to air dry
Don’t worry-the vinegar smell disappears as it dries, taking pet odors with it.

Step 4: Enzyme Cleaners for Pet Urine

For urine odors, enzyme-based cleaners are essential. They break down the proteins that cause persistent smells.

Why enzymes work:

  • They eliminate odors at the molecular level
  • Prevent pets from re-marking the same spot
  • Safe for most upholstery fabrics
Always choose products labeled for pet-safe upholstery cleaning and test on a hidden area first.

Step 5: Steam Cleaning (With Caution)

Steam cleaning can be effective, but only if done correctly.

Best practices:

  • Use low moisture settings
  • Avoid high heat on delicate fabrics
  • Use pet-safe upholstery cleaning solutions only
⚠️ Important: Steam can “set” urine odors if enzymes weren’t used first. Always treat urine spots before steaming.

Natural Deodorizers That Are Pet-Safe

If you prefer chemical-free options, try these natural solutions:

Activated Charcoal

  • Absorbs odors without masking them
  • Place charcoal bags near or under furniture

Cornstarch

  • Similar to baking soda
  • Great for delicate fabrics

Pet-Safe Essential Oils

  • Lavender or chamomile (very diluted)
  • Never apply directly-use in sprays cautiously
Avoid toxic oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or citrus around pets.

When to Choose Professional Upholstery Cleaning

Sometimes, DIY methods just aren’t enough-especially for old or severe odors.

Professional Cleaning Is Best If:

  • Odors return after cleaning
  • Furniture padding is affected
  • Multiple pet accidents have occurred
  • You want deep, long-lasting results
Professional services use industrial-grade equipment and pet-safe upholstery cleaning solutions that penetrate deep without harming fabric or pets.

How Professionals Remove Pet Odors Effectively

Professional upholstery cleaners typically use
  • Enzyme pre-treatment
  • Hot water extraction
  • Low-moisture drying systems
  • Fabric-safe deodorization
This combination removes bacteria, stains, and odors-not just the smell on the surface.

Preventing Pet Odors in the Future

Keeping furniture odor-free is easier with regular maintenance.

Helpful Prevention Tips

  • Wash pet bedding weekly
  • Groom pets regularly
  • Use washable sofa covers
  • Vacuum furniture at least once a week
  • Clean accidents immediately
You can also schedule pet-safe upholstery cleaning every 6–12 months for long-term freshness.

Best Fabrics for Pet-Friendly Homes

If you’re buying new furniture, choose fabrics that resist odor absorption:
  • Leather or faux leather
  • Microfiber
  • Tightly woven synthetic fabrics
These materials are easier to clean and don’t trap pet smells as easily.

Mistakes to Avoid When Removing Pet Odors

❌ Using too much water ❌ Skipping enzyme cleaners for urine ❌ Mixing harsh chemicals ❌ Using scented sprays to “mask” odors ❌ Ignoring manufacturer cleaning codes Always check your upholstery’s care label before cleaning.

Final Thoughts

Pet odors in upholstered furniture can be frustrating-but they’re not permanent. With the right approach, natural remedies, and pet-safe upholstery cleaning techniques, you can eliminate odors at the source and enjoy a fresh, comfortable home again. For everyday maintenance, DIY methods like baking soda and vinegar work well. But for stubborn or recurring odors, professional upholstery cleaning is a smart, long-term solution-especially for pet owners who want cleanliness without compromising safety.