How to remove pet smell from the apartment

Guests wrinkling their noses? Pet smell in the flat usually has a clear source. Find it first, then remove it.

Where the smell comes from

Most often it is bedding, carpets, soft furniture, the litter box or infrequent cleaning. Humidity and poor ventilation make it stronger. In dogs the smell can also come from skin or ears.

What to do first

Wash all beds, blankets and soft toys. Vacuum soft furniture and carpets. Wipe hard surfaces. Air the rooms. If there is a litter box, make sure it is clean and the litter is changed on time.

Working on soft furniture and carpets

After vacuuming you can use a pet-safe cleaner suitable for the fabric. Avoid bleach, ammonia and strong essential oils — they are dangerous for animals. Dry surfaces thoroughly.

When the smell points to health

A strong unpleasant smell coming from the animal itself, the mouth, ears or skin may indicate infection, dental or skin problems. In that case cleaning alone is not enough — see a vet.

What to avoid

Do not cover the smell with sprays while the source remains. Do not leave damp carpets or bedding. Do not use harsh household chemicals near pets.

Common questions

Do ozone or ioniser machines help?

They can reduce smell in the air for a while, but they do not remove the source. Clean the cause first.

How often should I wash the bed?

Every 1–2 weeks with normal use, more often during heavy shedding or after soiling.

Smell remains after cleaning — what next?

Check hidden spots under the sofa, behind furniture and in cracks. Old urine can linger. If the smell comes from the animal itself, see a vet.

You can find vets, groomers and care products in the Petty catalogue.