Does your home sometimes smell a little… canine? You love your furry friend, but that distinct “dog smell” can cling to everything, especially their bedding and your favorite blankets. It’s a common problem for pet parents everywhere, and finding a laundry detergent that truly tackles those stubborn odors can feel like a never-ending quest.
You’ve probably stood in the laundry aisle, staring at bottle after bottle, wondering which one will actually work. Will it be too harsh for your dog’s sensitive skin if they cuddle up with those items? Will it just mask the smell, or truly eliminate it? The confusion is real, and the disappointment of a detergent that doesn’t deliver can be frustrating.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll dive into what makes some detergents better at fighting dog smells than others. You’ll learn what ingredients to look for and what to avoid. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing the best laundry detergent to keep your home smelling fresh and your dog’s belongings clean and odor-free. Let’s get started on banishing that doggy odor for good!
Our Top 5 Laundry Detergent For Dog Smell Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Laundry Detergent For Dog Smell Detailed Reviews
1. Pet Laundry Detergent Odor Remover – ACTIVE Enzyme Based Powder Detergent for Dogs Beds
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of pet odors lingering on your laundry? The ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent Odor Remover is here to tackle those tough smells and stubborn stains. This powerful, enzyme-based powder detergent is designed for all your pet’s laundry needs, from dog beds and blankets to leashes and furniture covers. It works wonders in High Efficiency (HE) washers and is safe for all fabric types, even your own clothes that might have picked up a pet scent. Get ready for truly clean and fresh-smelling pet items!
What We Like:
- It’s a concentrated powder, so a little goes a long way, giving you 64 loads of powerful cleaning.
- The active enzymes are great at breaking down pet messes like urine, drool, and dirt.
- It’s fragrance-free, meaning it actually removes odors instead of just covering them up with perfume.
- It’s gentle and natural, made without harsh chemicals, making it safe for pets with sensitive skin.
- It works on a variety of pet laundry items and even your own clothes.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a powder, it might not dissolve as quickly in very cold water compared to liquid detergents.
- While it’s natural, some people might prefer a detergent with a light, pleasant scent.
This ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent is a fantastic solution for keeping your home and your pet’s belongings fresh and clean. It offers great value and effective odor removal.
2. Febreze Laundry Detergent Additive for Pet Supplies
Rating: 9.4/10
Say goodbye to stinky pet messes with Febreze Laundry Detergent Additive for Pet Supplies! This powerful in-wash odor eliminator tackles even the toughest pet smells, leaving your fabrics and clothing fresh and clean. It’s designed to work in a single wash, making laundry day a breeze.
What We Like:
- It really gets rid of stubborn pet odors, not just covers them up.
- Works great on pet beds, blankets, and even car seat covers.
- You can use it with your regular laundry detergent and fabric softener.
- It’s safe for all washing machines, including HE models.
- The large 98 fl oz bottle means you won’t run out quickly.
- You can save money by subscribing and getting it regularly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Fresh Scent” might be a bit strong for some people with sensitive noses.
- For very old or deeply set odors, you might need to pre-soak for best results, which takes extra time.
This Febreze additive is a lifesaver for pet owners. It effectively removes odors, making your home smell much better.
3. LaundraPet
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of pet messes lingering on your clothes? LaundraPet, 3X Strength Premium Laundry Detergent by Alpha Tech Pet, is here to help! This powerful detergent tackles tough pet odors and stains, leaving your laundry smelling fresh and clean. It’s designed for all your pet-related fabrics, whether at home, in a clinic, or at a kennel. LaundraPet uses advanced enzyme technology to give you 3x the cleaning power, so you can use less detergent and save energy, especially with its cold-water effectiveness.
What We Like:
- Effectively removes tough pet odors and stains.
- Works on all pet-related fabrics for ultimate versatility.
- Features triple-action enzymatic power for 3x cleaning efficacy.
- Boosts cleaning power by 15% with its special formula.
- Safe and effective for high-efficiency washers due to its low-sudsing nature.
- Can be used in cold water, saving energy.
- Made by Alpha Tech Pet, a company with over 38 years of experience in trusted animal care solutions.
- Eco-friendly and made in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 64 oz size might not be enough for very large households or professional kennels.
- While powerful, extremely old or set-in stains might still require pre-treatment.
LaundraPet is a fantastic solution for pet owners who want cleaner, fresher laundry. Its advanced formula and powerful cleaning action make it a top choice for tackling pet messes.
4. Odorcide Laundry Odor Eliminator Concentrate – Pet Odor Eliminator for Strong Odors – Pet Smell & Urine Odor Eliminator for Clothes – Laundry Odor Neutralizer w/Safe
Rating: 8.8/10
Dealing with pet odors in your laundry can be a real challenge. From muddy paw prints on blankets to inevitable accidents on clothing, those stubborn smells can linger. That’s where the Odorcide Laundry Odor Eliminator Concentrate comes in. This powerful product promises to tackle even the toughest pet smells, leaving your laundry fresh and clean.
What We Like:
- Use what Your Vet Uses: Thornell is trusted by veterinarians across North America. You can feel confident using a product recommended by pet care professionals.
- Tough on Strong Odors: This concentrate works immediately and permanently removes odors from the source. It doesn’t just cover up smells; it neutralizes them.
- Easy to Use & Cost Efficient: A little goes a long way! Just ½ oz per load is enough for moderate odors, making the 32 oz bottle good for 64 loads. You can add it to your pre-soak or directly with detergent.
- Not an Enzyme, Not a Mask: Its unique non-enzymatic formula works effectively, even if you’ve tried other odor removers before.
- Safe for Small Pets & Children: The formula is non-toxic, non-irritating, non-carcinogenic, and biodegradable. Your family and pets can be around treated items right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- While effective, the initial cost might seem higher than typical laundry boosters.
- The “concentrate” aspect means you need to measure carefully to get the best results.
Odorcide Laundry Odor Eliminator Concentrate is a highly effective solution for pet owners. It tackles odors at their source and is safe for your whole family.
5. Bark2Basics Dog-Off Laundry Liquid Detergent
Rating: 9.4/10
Say goodbye to stubborn pet odors and stains with Bark2Basics Dog-Off Laundry Liquid Detergent! This powerful, gallon-sized detergent is designed to tackle the toughest messes left behind by our furry friends. It’s perfect for cleaning everything from doggy towels and blankets to your own clothes and bedding. Whether you run a busy grooming salon, a vet clinic, or simply have a house full of pets, this detergent is a game-changer.
What We Like:
- Eliminates Pet Odors and Stains: This detergent truly works to get rid of those persistent pet smells and visible stains.
- Pet Safe Formula: It’s 100% safe for washing items used by dogs, cats, and other pets.
- Naturally Derived Ingredients: The formula uses ingredients from nature and is biodegradable, making it good for your pets and the planet.
- Expertly Made: Created by grooming supply experts with over 23 years of experience, this is a professional-grade product.
- Incredibly Concentrated: You only need 1 oz for a full load, meaning one gallon provides 128 loads of cleaning power!
What Could Be Improved:
- No Scoop Included: You’ll need to find your own measuring scoop or cup to use the detergent.
This detergent offers fantastic cleaning power and peace of mind for pet owners and professionals alike. It’s an effective and eco-friendly solution for keeping everything smelling fresh and looking clean.
Your Guide to a Fresh-Smelling Home: Laundry Detergent for Dog Odors
Having a dog is wonderful! They bring so much joy. But sometimes, they bring a little something extra: that unmistakable doggy smell. Don’t worry, you can tackle those odors with the right laundry detergent. This guide will help you choose the best one for your home.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for dog odor-eliminating laundry detergent, keep these important features in mind:
- Odor-Neutralizing Power: This is the most important thing. Look for detergents that specifically say they fight odors, not just mask them. Enzymes are great at breaking down odor-causing molecules.
- Pet-Safe Ingredients: You want a detergent that is safe for your furry friend. Avoid harsh chemicals that could irritate their skin if they get close to freshly washed items. Look for terms like “hypoallergenic” or “dye-free.”
- Concentrated Formulas: Concentrated detergents often mean you get more washes for your money. They use less water in production, which is also good for the environment.
- Stain Removal: Dogs can be messy! A good detergent will also help lift dirt and stains from their bedding, your clothes, and other washable items.
- Scent Options: While odor neutralization is key, a pleasant scent can be a bonus. You can choose unscented if you’re sensitive, or pick a light, fresh scent.
2. Important Materials and Ingredients
Understanding what’s inside your detergent helps you make a smart choice.
- Enzymes: These are tiny helpers! Different enzymes target different types of messes. For dog smells, look for enzymes that break down proteins and fats, which are often the source of pet odors.
- Surfactants: These are the cleaning agents. They lift dirt and oil from fabrics.
- Oxygen Bleach: This is a safe way to brighten whites and tackle tough odors without damaging colors. It’s a good alternative to chlorine bleach.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of detergents with lots of artificial dyes, heavy perfumes, and phthalates. These can sometimes cause skin irritation for pets and people.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things can make your detergent work better, while others can make it less effective.
- Water Temperature: For the best results, wash pet items in the warmest water setting recommended for the fabric. Warm water helps activate the detergent’s cleaning power.
- Detergent Amount: Using too little detergent won’t clean effectively. Using too much can leave residue on your fabrics, which can actually trap odors. Follow the product’s instructions.
- Pre-Treating Stains: For stubborn stains and strong odors, pre-treating the fabric before washing can make a big difference. You can use a stain remover or a paste of detergent and water.
- Overloading the Washer: Don’t stuff your washing machine too full. Clothes need room to move around for proper cleaning and rinsing.
- Fabric Type: Some fabrics hold onto odors more than others. Natural fibers like cotton can sometimes trap smells more than synthetics.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use this detergent? Think about your daily life.
- Pet Bedding: This is the most common use. Dog beds can get smelly quickly. Washing them regularly with an odor-fighting detergent will keep your home smelling fresh.
- Dog Toys: Many fabric dog toys can be washed. Toss them in with your dog’s bedding for a good clean.
- Your Clothes: Does your dog love to snuggle up to you? Your clothes might pick up some of their scent. Wash your clothes with the same detergent to keep them smelling great.
- Blankets and Throws: Any soft furnishings your dog uses can benefit from this special detergent.
- Easy to Use: Most of these detergents work just like your regular detergent. You simply add them to your wash cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dog Odor Detergent
Q: What makes dog smells stick to laundry?
A: Dog smells are often caused by oils and bacteria on their fur. When these get on fabrics, they can create that distinct odor.
Q: Can I use regular laundry detergent for dog smells?
A: Regular detergents might help a little, but they often just mask the smell. Detergents specifically designed for pet odors have special ingredients to break down the odor molecules.
Q: Are enzyme-based detergents better for dog smells?
A: Yes, enzyme-based detergents are usually the most effective. Enzymes are like tiny cleaners that eat away at the odor-causing stuff.
Q: Is it safe to wash dog items with my own clothes?
A: It’s generally safe if you use a pet-safe detergent. However, if the dog items are heavily soiled or have a very strong odor, it’s best to wash them separately first.
Q: How often should I wash my dog’s bedding?
A: It’s a good idea to wash your dog’s bedding at least once a week, or more often if they have accidents or seem particularly smelly.
Q: Can I use this detergent on my dog’s crate or carrier?
A: If the crate or carrier has washable fabric liners or covers, you can wash them using this detergent.
Q: What if the dog smell is still there after washing?
A: Try washing the item again, perhaps with a pre-soak. Make sure you’re using enough detergent and the right water temperature.
Q: Are there any natural alternatives to pet odor detergents?
A: Some people use vinegar or baking soda in their wash. However, specialized pet odor detergents are often more powerful and reliable.
Q: Will this detergent fade my pet’s colorful bedding?
A: Most pet odor detergents are designed to be safe for colors. Always check the product label and the care instructions for your pet’s bedding.
Q: Where can I buy laundry detergent for dog smells?
A: You can find these detergents at most grocery stores, pet supply stores, and online retailers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!