How to Get Dog Smell Out of Clothes

Few things in life are better than cuddling with furry friends, but the snuggles can come at a cost to clothing. Have you ever put on a fresh outfit, just for a lingering dog smell to follow you around all day? Pup parents know what we’re talking about!

Though your dogs can’t do much about their scent, there are a few steps you can take as a pet owner. Keep reading to learn how to get dog smell out of clothes without sacrificing those precious snuggles.

How to Get Dog Smell Out of Clothes

Remove Dog Hair and Debris Before Washing

The best preventative measure you can take to stop the smell in its tracks is simple: a quick lint roll before washing. The sooner you remove pet dander and debris, the better your clothing will smell.

To make lint rolling a regular part of your routine, place one roller in your pile of dog gear and another near your laundry basket.

Add a Scent Neutralizer to Your Load

The most powerful way to get dog smell out of clothes is a scent neutralizer. Here are a few options that you can add directly to your washing machine’s detergent drawer:

  • One tablespoon of baking soda

  • ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar

  • ½ cup of lemon juice with ½ cup of water (though this is only recommended for whites)

Use a Dryer Ball

After pre-treating your clothing with a lint roller and neutralizing odors during washing, a dryer ball is an excellent last line of defense. They remove pet residue and dander, improve a dryer’s efficiency, and protect sensitive skin from irritants.

You can find quite a few options online or in stores, but you can also make your own reusable dryer balls DIY style. Click here to learn how!

Change Your Dog’s Bathing Routine

Tried these steps and still wondering how to get dog smell out of clothes? Perhaps it’s time to address the root of the problem: your furry friends themselves. Next time you give your pups a bath, try using this concoction as a shampoo:

  • Two parts warm water

  • Two parts apple cider vinegar

  • Half a cup of dish soap

It’s safe for pets and excellent for lasting odor defense!

Deep Clean Your Furniture

Finally, your furniture. If nothing else is working, the smell may be coming from your dog’s go-to snuggle spots. Dedicate one day to a doggie deep clean and tackle your:

Congratulations—you now know how to get dog smell out of clothes! For clean machines that can handle any type of dog dander and sneaky smells, your local WaveMAX Laundry near Northglenn is here to help. If you’re short on time, click here to schedule a laundry pickup.

You got this, pet parents!