Pets are beloved members of many families, but they can also leave behind a noticeable odor. From wet dog fur to cat urine, pet smells can permeate your home and make it feel less than welcoming. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to eliminate pet smells and keep your house smelling fresh and clean.

How to Get a Pet Smell Out of the House

Identify the Source of the Smell

The first step in getting rid of pet smells is to identify the source. Once you know where the smell is coming from, you can take steps to clean and deodorize the area.

Common sources of pet smells include:

  • Carpets and rugs
  • Furniture
  • Pet beds
  • Litter boxes
  • Cages
  • Pet toys

Clean and Deodorize the Source

Once you've identified the source of the smell, it's time to clean and deodorize the area. The best way to do this will depend on the surface and the type of pet smell.

For carpets and rugs, you can use a pet-safe carpet cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water. Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

For furniture and pet beds, you can use a pet-safe upholstery cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water. Again, be sure to rinse the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

For litter boxes and cages, you can use a pet-safe disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label and rinse the area thoroughly.

Use Air Fresheners and Odor Eliminators

In addition to cleaning and deodorizing the source of the smell, you can also use air fresheners and odor eliminators to help remove pet smells. Air fresheners can help to mask odors, while odor eliminators can help to neutralize them.

When choosing an air freshener or odor eliminator, look for products that are specifically designed for pet smells. These products will contain ingredients that are effective at removing pet odors.

Prevent Pet Smells from Coming Back

The best way to prevent pet smells from coming back is to take steps to keep your home clean and free of pet hair and dander.

Here are a few tips for preventing pet smells:

  • Brush your pet regularly to remove loose hair and dander.
  • Vacuum your home frequently to remove pet hair and dander.
  • Wash your pet's bedding and toys regularly.
  • Clean your pet's litter box or cage daily.
  • Use air purifiers or humidifiers to help remove pet odors.