How to Get Rid of the Dog Smell in Your Car

How to Get Rid of Dog Smell in Your Car

Bringing your dog along for the ride? Great. Smelling like a kennel for a week after? Not so great. Between hair, drool, and the occasional “accident,” dogs can leave your car smelling like regret on wheels.

Here’s how to kill the stink and keep your car fresh—without ditching your furry co-pilot.

Step 1: Vacuum Like You Mean It

Start by vacuuming every inch of the interior—seats, carpets, and trunk. If your dog sheds, don't half-ass this. Embedded hair traps odor and grime. Use a brush attachment to pull hair out of fabric before it becomes a permanent feature.

Step 2: Wipe Down All Surfaces

Use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the dashboard, cupholders, door panels, and steering wheel. That drool and grime? It’s got to go. Don’t forget crevices—hair and gunk love to hide there.

Step 3: Drop the Baking Soda Bomb

Sprinkle baking soda over seats and carpets. Let it sit for a few hours—overnight if you’re serious—then vacuum it up. This neutralizes odors like a charm and doesn’t mask them with fake fruity nonsense.

Step 4: Steam It Clean

Still smelling Fido every time you open the door? Hit the upholstery with a steam cleaner. It loosens embedded gunk and kills odor-causing bacteria at the source.

Step 5: Add an Air Freshener (Optional)

After you've actually cleaned the interior, a quality air freshener can help keep things pleasant. Pick a scent that doesn’t smell like a nightclub bathroom and call it a day.

Bonus: How to Remove Dog Pee from a Car Seat

If your dog left a little gift, here’s the damage control protocol:

1. Blot the area with a dry cloth. Don’t rub.

2. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, spray it directly on the stain.

3. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot it dry.

4. Optional: sprinkle baking soda on top afterward, let it dry, and vacuum.

These DIY methods help, but pet urine has a way of seeping deep into fabric. If the smell still lingers, you’ll need professional-grade tools to fully remove it.

Want the Smell Gone for Good?

Here’s the truth: home cleaning can mask the smell, but professional detailing eliminates it.

At Rinzer, we offer targeted services like Pet Hair Removal and Odor Elimination, along with deep interior detailing. Our mobile team comes to you—no waiting, no hassle.

Book your on-demand detail now →
Let your dog ride in style—without leaving your car smelling like a zoo.