How to use bicarbonate of soda to remove dog smell from the sofa

Dogs often choose the sofa as a favourite place to rest, but over time it can collect hair, moisture and unpleasant smells. Once the odour becomes more noticeable, scented products are not always needed. Bicarbonate of soda, a familiar and straightforward household cleaning ingredient, can absorb odours from the fabric and leave the upholstery feeling fresher when used properly.

Why does bicarbonate of soda help remove odours from the sofa?

Rather than simply covering smells with fragrance, bicarbonate of soda is widely recognised for absorbing them. Left on the fabric for a period, it can help lessen odours caused by built-up sweat, pet hair, moisture and residue left behind by pets.

This method is commonly used on upholstery, mattresses, rugs and carpets because it offers a simple way to maintain cleanliness between more thorough cleaning sessions.

How to use bicarbonate of soda to remove dog smell from the sofa

Before applying bicarbonate of soda, vacuum the sofa to remove pet hair, dust and other loose debris. Then distribute a thin, even layer across the upholstered surface, paying particular attention to the spots where the dog usually lies.

Leave the product in place for at least 30 minutes. If the smell is stronger, the bicarbonate of soda can remain on the sofa for several hours or overnight. Afterwards, thoroughly vacuum up the powder to remove all residue.

• Vacuum the sofa before applying it
• Spread a thin layer of bicarbonate of soda
• Focus particularly on the areas most used by the dog
• Leave it to work for 30 minutes or longer
• Vacuum up all the bicarbonate of soda completely
• Repeat the process whenever necessary

What precautions should be taken before application?

Although bicarbonate of soda is considered safe for many fabric types, it is advisable to test it on a small, hidden area before treating the entire sofa. This makes it possible to check that the upholstery reacts normally to the product.

It is also essential to vacuum away all of the bicarbonate of soda once the treatment time has ended. Powder left in the fibres may give the fabric a whitish appearance and can encourage dirt to build up over time.

• Test it in an inconspicuous area
• Use bicarbonate of soda only when dry
• Vacuum up all of the product after application
• Avoid applying it to damp fabrics
• Keep the sofa fully dry throughout the process

How can you stop the smell returning quickly?

Alongside regular sofa cleaning, a few habits can help reduce pet-related odours. Brushing the dog routinely reduces the amount of hair and residue left on the upholstery, while washing throws and protective covers frequently helps keep the room more pleasant.

Vacuuming the sofa every week and ensuring the room is well ventilated are also worthwhile. These simple measures limit the build-up of particles that can make odours stronger over time.