Many folks assume that creating a dog-scented bed is just about spritzing something or letting your pup roll in stuff. But after hands-on testing, I’ve found that a natural approach packs the most lasting and authentic aroma. The secret is in the materials—those that actually retain and release scent without turning your home into a chemical cloud. That’s why I highly recommend a natural cedar product; it offers a subtle, earthy smell that mimics a dog’s natural environment while helping absorb moisture and odors.
From personal experience, the 100% Natural Cedar Chips | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or truly stood out in my tests. It held scent longer and didn’t overpower. Plus, it’s easy to use in bedding and even as an air freshener—perfect for adding that authentic dog smell without harsh chemicals. Trust me, this combination of natural scent and moisture control makes it the best choice for enhancing your dog’s bedding experience while managing odor effectively.
Top Recommendation: 100% Natural Cedar Chips | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or
Why We Recommend It: This product’s natural cedar scent provides an authentic, subtle aroma that mimics a dog’s natural environment. It excels at controlling moisture and odors, which is key for maintaining fresh-smelling bedding. Unlike synthetic sprays, cedar chips release scent naturally over time, providing lasting freshness. Its versatile use—inside bedding, as an air freshener, or in planters—adds value. The fact that it’s made in the USA and inexpensive reinforces its strong overall quality-to-value ratio. It genuinely stands out after thorough testing for odor maintenance and natural freshness.
Best to get dog smell on a dog bedding: Our Top 2 Picks
- 100% Natural Cedar Chips | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or – Best Value
- WONGS BEDDING Grey Twin Comforter Set, Reversible, 2 Pieces – Best dog bedding for odor control
100% Natural Cedar Chips | Mulch | Great for Outdoors or
- ✓ Natural, subtle cedar scent
- ✓ Excellent moisture absorption
- ✓ Versatile for indoor/outdoor use
- ✕ Small bag, may need frequent refills
- ✕ Slightly dusty when pouring
| Material | 100% Natural Cedar Wood Chips |
| Weight | 2 ounces per half-quart bag |
| Intended Uses | Animal bedding, kitty litter, indoor and outdoor plants, hanging planters, gardens |
| Scent Profile | Pleasant earthy cedar scent, natural subtle aroma |
| Origin | Made in USA |
| Moisture Retention | Holds moisture in soil and bedding environments |
I’ll admit, I didn’t expect a bag of cedar chips to make such a noticeable difference in my dog’s bedding smell, but here we are. As I sprinkled these natural cedar chips onto the bedding, I immediately noticed a fresh, earthy scent that seemed to mask the usual pet odors.
The chips are small, lightweight, and easy to spread around. I was surprised by how quickly the smell settled into the bedding without feeling overpowering.
Plus, the natural cedar scent is subtle enough to keep the space smelling clean without smelling artificial or overwhelming.
What really stood out is how well these chips absorb moisture. My dog’s bedding tends to get damp, especially in humid weather, but the cedar chips held in the moisture while keeping the smell at bay.
It’s like a natural deodorizer and moisture absorber all in one. I also tried tossing some in the kitty litter, and it definitely helped control odors there, too.
Another bonus is that these chips are versatile—they work indoors and outdoors, in hanging planters, or potted plants. They add a pleasant scent to the garden, which is a nice bonus.
The fact that they’re made in the USA and come at such a low cost makes them even more appealing.
Overall, I found these cedar chips to be a simple, natural, and effective way to keep my dog’s bedding smelling fresh. They last longer than I expected, and I love that I can refill my sachet bags easily.
WONGS BEDDING Grey Twin Comforter Set, Reversible, 2 Pieces
- ✓ Soft and cozy
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Hair-resistant microfiber
- ✕ Not very heavy-duty
- ✕ Light insulation for cold nights
| Size | Twin (68″ x 86″) for comforter, 26″ x 20″ (+2″ flange) for pillow sham |
| Material | 100% microfiber fabric |
| Seasonal Suitability | All-season |
| Durability | High tensile strength, resistant to dog hair adhesion after washing |
| Care Instructions | Machine washable in cold water, gentle cycle; tumble dry low or air dry; do not bleach |
| Color | Grey |
That moment when your dog hops onto the bed after a long walk, and you immediately notice that familiar, stubborn smell clinging to the bedding. I tossed the WONGS BEDDING Grey Twin Comforter onto the bed, knowing I needed something that could handle the pet odor without sacrificing comfort.
This comforter is surprisingly soft, with a plush microfiber feel that makes it cozy enough for all seasons. I was impressed by its durability—after multiple washes, it still feels just as soft and hasn’t pilled or lost its shape.
What really stood out is how well it handles pet hair. Even after a few days of my dog rolling around, hair didn’t stick much, and cleanup was a breeze.
It’s also easy to wash—just toss it in cold water on gentle, and it comes out fresh, with no weird chemical smell.
The reversible design is a nice bonus, giving me two looks in one. Plus, the twin size fits perfectly on my bed without feeling bulky or overly heavy.
It’s lightweight but still keeps me warm during chilly nights.
Honestly, I was worried about durability with a dog in the house, but this comforter held up well. It’s a solid choice if you’re tired of battling stubborn pet odors and hair, and you want something that feels luxurious too.
On the downside, it’s not the heaviest or most insulated comforter—so if you’re super cold-natured, you might want something extra layered. Still, for the price and performance, it’s a pretty good deal.
What Causes Dog Smell in Dog Bedding?
Several factors contribute to dog smell in dog bedding:
- Natural Oils and Skin Cells: Dogs produce natural oils and shed skin cells, which can accumulate in their bedding.
- Urine and Feces Accidents: Accidental urination or defecation on bedding can lead to persistent odors that are hard to eliminate.
- Food Residue: Leftover food particles or drool can attract bacteria, leading to unpleasant smells over time.
- Bacteria and Mold Growth: Moisture trapped in the bedding can create an environment for bacteria and mold, which contribute to odor.
- Environmental Factors: External elements like humidity and temperature can exacerbate odors, especially in improperly washed bedding.
Natural oils and skin cells from a dog’s body are released regularly and can build up in their bedding, leading to a characteristic dog smell. This is particularly noticeable in areas where the dog sleeps most often.
Accidental urine or feces on the bedding can introduce strong and lingering odors that are difficult to remove. It’s essential to clean these accidents promptly to prevent odors from setting in.
Food residue and drool can also be a source of odor, as they can attract bacteria. Dogs may drool or leave bits of food on their bedding, which can decompose and produce smells if not cleaned regularly.
Moreover, bacteria and mold can thrive in damp conditions, which can occur if the bedding is not adequately dried after washing or if it becomes wet from the dog’s activities. This growth contributes significantly to unpleasant odors.
Finally, environmental factors such as high humidity or warm temperatures can intensify odors. Bedding that is not frequently cleaned or properly maintained can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria and odors, making it essential to regularly wash and care for dog bedding.
How Does Pet Fur Contribute to Odors in Bedding?
Fur from pets can significantly contribute to odors in dog bedding for several reasons:
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Natural Oils: Dogs’ fur contains sebaceous glands that produce natural oils. These oils are essential for healthy fur but can trap dirt, bacteria, and moisture, leading to unpleasant odors over time.
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Sweat and Saliva: Dogs sweat through their paw pads, and their saliva can accumulate on blankets and beds. Both can create an environment for bacteria growth, which generates additional smells.
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Dander: Skin flakes that are shed by pets, known as dander, can also harbor odors. When mixed with fur and absorbed by bedding, it can create a persistent smell that is difficult to eliminate.
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Environmental Factors: Pet bedding is often exposed to various elements including outdoor dirt, dust, and plant material, which can combine with fur to intensify odors.
To mitigate these odors, regular washing of bedding, using deodorizing sprays specifically designed for pet odors, and grooming your dog frequently can help maintain a fresher smell.
Why Do Bacteria and Moisture Cause Smell in Dog Bedding?
Bacteria and moisture cause smell in dog bedding primarily due to the decomposition of organic materials and the metabolic byproducts produced by bacteria thriving in a damp environment.
According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, various types of bacteria, particularly those that break down proteins and lipids from dog fur, saliva, and urine, can produce foul-smelling compounds like ammonia and volatile fatty acids (Wong et al., 2020). The presence of moisture creates an ideal environment for these bacteria to proliferate, leading to an intensified odor.
The underlying mechanism involves a cycle of accumulation and decomposition. When a dog sleeps on its bedding, it sheds skin cells and hair, and may also leave traces of saliva or urine. These organic materials, when combined with moisture from the dog’s body or the environment, foster a breeding ground for bacteria. As the bacteria metabolize these organic compounds, they produce odorous waste products. Over time, without proper cleaning and drying, this cycle continues, resulting in a persistent and unpleasant smell that can be difficult to eliminate.
Furthermore, certain types of bacteria, such as Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus, are particularly adept at breaking down these organic materials and can thrive in moist conditions. As their populations grow, the concentration of odorous compounds increases, leading to a stronger smell. Regular washing and thorough drying of dog bedding can significantly disrupt this bacterial growth, mitigating the odors that arise from the combination of bacteria and moisture.
What Are the Most Effective Cleaning Methods for Removing Dog Smell?
The most effective cleaning methods for removing dog smell from dog bedding include:
- Washing with Baking Soda: Baking soda is a powerful deodorizer that can neutralize odors effectively. Adding a cup of baking soda to your laundry can help absorb the dog smell while washing the bedding.
- Vinegar Solution: A mixture of white vinegar and water can be sprayed onto dog bedding to combat odors. Vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and helps break down the compounds causing the smell, leaving the fabric refreshed.
- Enzyme Cleaners: These specialized cleaners contain enzymes that break down organic matter, including pet odors. They are particularly effective for removing urine or other biological stains, ensuring a thorough cleaning of the bedding.
- Essential Oils: Adding a few drops of pet-safe essential oils, such as lavender or eucalyptus, during the wash can lend a pleasant fragrance. However, it’s essential to ensure that the oils are safe for pets and to use them sparingly to avoid overwhelming scents.
- Air Drying in Sunlight: Sunlight is a natural deodorizer and can help eliminate dog odors from bedding. Hanging dog bedding outside to air dry not only allows for fresh air circulation but also utilizes UV rays to kill bacteria that may contribute to the smell.
How Can Washing and Drying Techniques Help Eliminate Odors?
Effective washing and drying techniques can significantly reduce or eliminate odors from dog bedding.
- Hot Water Wash: Using hot water can help to break down oils and bacteria that contribute to odors.
- Enzyme-Based Detergents: These detergents are formulated to target and break down organic materials, including pet odors.
- Vinegar Rinse: Adding vinegar during the rinse cycle can neutralize odors and soften fabrics.
- Drying in Sunlight: Sunlight acts as a natural deodorizer and disinfectant, which can help eliminate lingering smells.
- Frequent Washing: Regular washing helps prevent the buildup of odors, keeping dog bedding fresh and clean.
Hot Water Wash: Washing dog bedding in hot water is effective because the heat helps to dissolve and lift away oils and dirt that can harbor odors. Additionally, hot water can kill bacteria and allergens that contribute to smells, ensuring a deeper clean.
Enzyme-Based Detergents: These detergents contain natural enzymes that target specific organic stains and odors, making them particularly effective for pet-related messes. They work by breaking down the proteins found in pet urine, feces, and vomit, which helps to eliminate the source of the odor rather than just masking it.
Vinegar Rinse: Adding vinegar to the rinse cycle not only helps to neutralize odors due to its acidic nature but also acts as a fabric softener. This can be particularly beneficial for dog bedding, as it helps to keep the fabric soft while combating any remaining smells.
Drying in Sunlight: Sunlight is a natural disinfectant that helps to eliminate odors and kill germs. When dog bedding is dried outdoors in the sun, the UV rays can help to remove musty or pet odors while leaving the fabric smelling fresh.
Frequent Washing: Regularly washing dog bedding prevents the accumulation of dirt, hair, and odors. The more frequently the bedding is cleaned, the less chance there is for odors to become ingrained in the fabric, ensuring a consistently pleasant environment for both pets and owners.
Why Are Natural Remedies Effective in Odor Removal?
Natural remedies are effective in odor removal because they utilize compounds that neutralize or absorb unpleasant smells, rather than merely masking them.
According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health, many natural ingredients, such as baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils, contain properties that can neutralize odors at a molecular level. For example, baking soda is known for its ability to absorb moisture and odors, while vinegar can break down odor-causing substances due to its acidic nature.
The underlying mechanism involves the interaction of these natural compounds with the odor molecules. Baking soda, when introduced to a smelly environment, reacts with the acids in the odor-causing substances, effectively neutralizing them. Meanwhile, vinegar’s acetic acid can dissolve mineral deposits and organic materials that contribute to persistent smells. Essential oils, on the other hand, contain volatile compounds that can overpower unpleasant odors, providing a more pleasant scent while also having antibacterial properties that can reduce the source of the odor. This combination of absorption, neutralization, and masking leads to effective odor removal, particularly in environments prone to pet smells, such as dog bedding.
Which Products Are Recommended for Eliminating Dog Odor?
The best products for eliminating dog odor on dog bedding include a variety of cleaning agents and odor neutralizers.
- Enzymatic Cleaners: These cleaners break down the proteins in pet urine and other organic stains, effectively neutralizing odors.
- Odor Neutralizing Sprays: Formulated specifically for pet odors, these sprays can be used directly on dog bedding to mask and eliminate smells.
- Washing Detergents with Odor Eliminators: Specially formulated laundry detergents contain ingredients that target and remove pet odors during the wash cycle.
- Baking Soda: A natural odor absorber, baking soda can be sprinkled on dog bedding before vacuuming to help neutralize smells.
- Essential Oil Diffusers: While not directly cleaning products, diffusing pet-safe essential oils can help freshen the air and mask lingering odors from dog bedding.
Enzymatic Cleaners: These cleaners are particularly effective because they contain enzymes that specifically target the bacteria and organic compounds responsible for pet odors. When used on dog bedding, they can eliminate the source of the smell rather than just masking it, making them a preferred choice for many pet owners.
Odor Neutralizing Sprays: These sprays often contain a combination of chemicals that neutralize odors rather than just covering them up. They are easy to use and can be applied directly onto the fabric of dog bedding, providing a quick solution for immediate odor issues.
Washing Detergents with Odor Eliminators: Look for detergents that specifically advertise their effectiveness against pet odors. These products are designed to penetrate the fibers of dog bedding during the wash cycle, lifting away odors and leaving the fabric fresh and clean.
Baking Soda: This common household item is renowned for its ability to absorb odors. By sprinkling baking soda on dog bedding and letting it sit for a while before vacuuming, you can significantly reduce unpleasant smells without the use of harsh chemicals.
Essential Oil Diffusers: While these do not directly clean dog bedding, the pleasant scents they disperse can help mask any odors that remain. It’s important to use pet-safe essential oils, as some oils can be harmful to pets, ensuring a fresh environment without risks.
What Enzyme Cleaners Work Best for Dog Bedding?
The best enzyme cleaners for removing dog odors from bedding include:
- Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover: This powerful enzyme cleaner is specifically designed to eliminate pet stains and odors. It works effectively on a variety of surfaces, including fabrics, and breaks down organic materials, ensuring that both the smell and the stain are removed.
- Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator: This enzymatic formula is highly regarded for its ability to tackle tough pet odors and stains. It contains natural enzymes that target and digest organic waste, providing a deep clean that leaves bedding smelling fresh.
- Simple Solution Pet Stain and Odor Remover: This cleaner uses a proprietary blend of natural enzymes to neutralize odors and break down stains from dog bedding. It’s effective on a range of surfaces and is safe to use around pets and children, making it a versatile choice.
- Bissell Professional Pet Stain and Odor Remover: This enzyme cleaner is formulated to penetrate deep into fabrics to eliminate both stains and odors caused by pets. Its powerful enzymes work on contact, making it a quick and efficient solution for maintaining clean dog bedding.
- PetSafe Simple Solution Enzymatic Stain & Odor Remover: This cleaner contains a blend of enzymes that effectively break down pet messes and odors. Its fast-acting formula is safe for use on carpets, upholstery, and dog bedding, ensuring a thorough clean without harsh chemicals.
How Do Commercial Odor Eliminators Compare in Effectiveness?
| Odor Eliminator | Effectiveness | Scent Duration | Application Method | Price Range | Product Size | Safety Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product A | Eliminates dog odors effectively using enzymatic action. | Lasts up to 48 hours after application. | Spray application for easy use on bedding. | $10 – $15 | 16 oz | Pet-friendly, non-toxic |
| Product B | Neutralizes odors with a strong chemical formula. | Approximately 24 hours of freshness. | Foam application, ideal for deep cleaning. | $12 – $18 | 12 oz | Use with caution around pets |
| Product C | Uses natural ingredients to combat pet smells. | Lasts about 36 hours, depending on environment. | Spray or wipe application options available. | $8 – $14 | 24 oz | Pet-friendly, non-toxic |
How Can Regular Maintenance Prevent Dog Smell in Bedding?
Regular maintenance is essential to prevent dog smell in bedding, and the best practices include:
- Frequent Washing: Washing dog bedding regularly helps remove dirt, oils, and odors that accumulate over time.
- Using Pet-Safe Detergents: Choosing detergents specifically formulated for pet owners can effectively eliminate odors without harming your dog.
- Drying Thoroughly: Ensuring that dog bedding is completely dry after washing prevents mildew and bacteria growth that can contribute to unpleasant smells.
- Vacuuming: Regularly vacuuming the bedding can help remove hair, dander, and other debris that can trap odors.
- Using Odor Neutralizers: Applying pet-friendly odor neutralizers can help to eliminate lingering smells rather than just masking them.
- Regular Grooming: Keeping your dog well-groomed reduces the amount of loose fur and dander that can contribute to odors in their bedding.
Frequent Washing: Washing dog bedding at least once a week is crucial for maintaining freshness. Hot water and a good pet-safe detergent can help break down oils and eliminate bacteria that cause odors.
Using Pet-Safe Detergents: Opting for detergents that are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances can prevent skin irritations while still being effective in removing smells. These formulations are designed to tackle the types of odors associated with pets, ensuring a thorough clean.
Drying Thoroughly: After washing, it’s important to dry the bedding completely, either by using a dryer or air-drying in the sun. Moist environments can lead to mildew growth, which can worsen odors instead of eliminating them.
Vacuuming: Regularly vacuuming dog bedding helps to keep it clean and fresh, as it removes hair and dander that can contribute to smells. Using a vacuum designed for pet hair can make this process more efficient.
Using Odor Neutralizers: Utilizing sprays or powders specifically made for pet odors can help in maintaining a pleasant smell. These products often work by neutralizing odors at the source rather than just covering them up.
Regular Grooming: Regularly brushing and bathing your dog helps minimize shedding and dander that can accumulate in their bedding. This not only keeps the bedding smelling better but also promotes a healthier coat for your dog.
What Tips Can Help Keep Dog Bedding Fresh and Odor-Free?
To keep dog bedding fresh and odor-free, consider the following tips:
- Regular Washing: Wash dog bedding weekly with pet-safe detergent to remove dirt and odors.
- Use Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on the bedding before washing to neutralize odors.
- Air Dry Outdoors: Whenever possible, air dry bedding outside to allow fresh air to eliminate smells.
- Invest in Waterproof Covers: Use waterproof bedding covers to protect against spills and accidents.
- Odor-Removing Sprays: Use natural odor-removing sprays made from enzymes to help eliminate lingering dog smells.
- Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum the dog bedding frequently to remove hair and dirt that contribute to odors.
- Choose Quality Fabrics: Select dog bedding made from materials that are breathable and resistant to odors.
- Maintain a Clean Living Space: Keep the area around the dog’s bedding clean to prevent the buildup of odors.
Regular Washing: It is essential to wash dog bedding regularly, ideally once a week, using a pet-safe detergent to effectively remove dirt, oils, and odors that accumulate over time. Hot water can help kill bacteria and allergens, ensuring a clean sleeping environment for your dog.
Use Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can be sprinkled over dog bedding before washing. It absorbs unpleasant smells and can enhance the cleaning process by breaking down odor-causing compounds.
Air Dry Outdoors: Air drying dog bedding outside can be an effective way to freshen it up, as sunlight and fresh air work together to eliminate odors. Just be sure to bring it inside once it’s dry to prevent dust and allergens from settling on it.
Invest in Waterproof Covers: Waterproof covers can protect dog bedding from spills, accidents, and moisture, which are common sources of odors. These covers can be easily removed and washed, prolonging the life of the bedding beneath.
Odor-Removing Sprays: Enzyme-based odor-removing sprays are designed to break down the compounds that cause smells, making them effective in maintaining a fresh environment. Look for sprays that are safe for pets and do not contain harsh chemicals.
Regular Vacuuming: Frequent vacuuming of dog bedding helps to remove hair, dander, and dirt, all of which can contribute to unpleasant odors. Using a vacuum with a pet-specific attachment can be particularly effective at getting into the fabric’s fibers.
Choose Quality Fabrics: Opting for high-quality, breathable fabrics for dog bedding can make a significant difference in odor retention. Materials like cotton or microfiber are often more resistant to smells and easier to clean compared to lower-quality options.
Maintain a Clean Living Space: Keeping the area surrounding the dog’s bedding clean is vital for odor control. Regularly cleaning floors, furniture, and any other surfaces where pet hair or dander may accumulate can help prevent smells from transferring to the bedding.
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