Having your furry friend travel with you in your RV is a great experience, but over time, pet odors can become trapped in fabrics, carpets, and vents, making your space smell less than fresh. If you’re wondering how to get rid of a dog smell in my RV, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through effective ways to eliminate pet odors and keep your RV smelling clean on every adventure. If persistent odors remain, professional RV cleaning services from Daisy RV can help.
Why Does My RV Smell Like a Dog?
1. Pet Dander and Fur Buildup
Dogs shed fur and dander, which get trapped in upholstery, carpets, and air vents, leading to lingering odors.
2. Saliva and Body Oils on Surfaces
Dogs naturally produce oils that transfer onto couches, bedding, and carpets, contributing to the smell.
3. Accidents or Wet Dog Smell
Even well-trained dogs can have accidents, and the smell of damp fur can linger in enclosed RV spaces.
Now that we understand the causes, let’s explore how to get rid of a dog smell in my RV effectively.
Deep Cleaning to Remove Dog Smells
1. Vacuum Everything Thoroughly
Pet fur and dander settle into carpets, furniture, and vents. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove hair and allergens from:
- Carpets and rugs
- Upholstery and bedding
- Air vents and AC filters
Empty the vacuum canister outside to prevent pet odors from recirculating in the RV.
2. Shampoo Carpets and Upholstery
Using a pet-friendly carpet cleaner or steam cleaner can break down embedded odors. Focus on areas where your dog sleeps or lounges.
DIY Option: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, mist the area, and blot dry to help neutralize odors.
3. Wash All Bedding and Fabrics
If you allow your dog on the furniture or bed, wash all linens, blankets, and cushion covers regularly using pet-safe detergent.
For persistent odors, add ½ cup of baking soda to the wash cycle.
Eliminating Odors from Air and Surfaces
4. Clean and Replace Air Filters
Your RV’s air conditioning and heating system can trap pet dander and odors in the filters. Clean or replace them regularly to improve air quality.
5. Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Placing odor absorbers around your RV can help keep it fresh:
- Baking soda in open containers absorbs lingering pet smells.
- Activated charcoal neutralizes odors naturally.
- Coffee grounds placed in small bowls can absorb and replace unpleasant smells.
6. Wipe Down Hard Surfaces
Pet oils and saliva can accumulate on walls, cabinets, and counters. Use a vinegar and water mixture or pet-safe disinfectant wipes to clean these surfaces.
Preventing Dog Odors in the Future
7. Bathe and Groom Your Dog Regularly
Frequent grooming reduces the amount of fur, dander, and oils your dog sheds inside the RV. Use a pet-friendly deodorizing shampoo and brush them often.
8. Use Washable Covers on Furniture
Protect your furniture by using washable blankets or slipcovers where your dog sleeps. These are easy to remove and clean as needed.
9. Air Out the RV
After long trips, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. This helps prevent musty smells from developing.
10. Consider Professional RV Cleaning
If you’ve tried these methods and still struggle with pet odors, professional RV detailing can help remove deep-set smells. Daisy RV offers expert cleaning solutions to restore freshness to your RV.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been asking, how to get rid of a dog smell in my RV, the solution is a combination of deep cleaning, odor-neutralizing methods, and preventative care. By keeping up with maintenance, you can enjoy a clean, fresh-smelling RV while traveling with your furry companion.
For professional RV cleaning services and expert maintenance tips, visit Daisy RV today!
