How to Eliminate Pet Odor on Clothing

Ridding clothing of unpleasant odor is a task many pet owners will face at some point, particularly owners who keep animal indoors. Even if your pet is house-trained, accidents occur. Pets can also track in odor-causing germs from outside when on walks, playing in the yard, or interacting with other animals. Odors cling to porous clothing fabrics, leaving apparel unpleasant to wear. However, there are several low-cost ways to remove odor at home.

Things You'll Need

  • Lint roller
  • Washer and dryer
  • White vinegar or baking soda
  • Laundry detergent
  • Fabric softener sheets
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a lint roller to remove unwanted pet hair and dander, a dandruff-like substance, from clothing. Lint rollers can be purchased at retailers such as Target and Wal-Mart, or ordered online from specialty manufacturers like 3M.

    • 2

      Wash affected clothing in high-temperature water with a regular amount of detergent. If clothing is particularly acrid, add 1 to 2 cups of white vinegar to the wash. Alternatively, add a 1-lb. box of baking soda. Both can be purchased at grocery stores. The vinegar and baking soda both neutralize the odor but are too weak to damage clothing material.

    • 3

      Dry clothing outside if possible or on your dryer's normal settings. Add scented dryer sheets to the load. If odor persists after first wash, repeat.