How to Get Pet Odors in an Apartment: The Ultimate Freshness Checklist

Pet odors can make it hard to rent or sell your property – Here are some easy remedies

If you’re preparing a Miami apartment for sale or rent, one of the most overlooked deal-breakers for buyers is pet odor—especially that distinct “dog smell.” While many people love dogs, very few want to smell them the moment they walk through the door. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or real estate agent, eliminating lingering pet odors can make a major difference in your success.

As a seasoned Miami realtor, I’ve walked into beautifully staged homes that still lost potential buyers because of a faint but unmistakable pet scent. The good news? It’s completely fixable.

Use this step-by-step dog odor elimination checklist to prepare your apartment for listing photos, private showings, or tenant move-outs. It’s not just about covering up smells—it’s about completely removing the source.

✅ 1. Deep Cleaning

A surface clean won’t cut it. You need to deep clean every area where odor molecules could be trapped.

•  Wash all removable fabric covers: sofa covers, pillowcases, throws, curtains.
•  Add white vinegar to wash cycle to neutralize odor.
•  Thoroughly vacuum all carpets, rugs, upholstery, and corners.
•  Steam clean carpets and soft furnishings (if needed).
•  Clean walls and baseboards, especially near dog beds or feeding areas.

✅ 2. Clean and Deodorize Pet Items

Your dog’s belongings can carry scent long after you’ve cleaned the space around them.

•  Wash dog beds, blankets, and soft toys in hot water with pet-safe detergent.
•  Discard any items that still smell after washing.
•  Sprinkle baking soda on pet bedding before washing to absorb odor.

✅ 3. Air Circulation & Purification

Fresh air and filtered air go a long way in removing persistent smells.

•  Open all windows for at least 30 minutes to ventilate the apartment.
•  Use an air purifier with a carbon or HEPA filter.
•  Replace HVAC filters—consider pet-specific filters if available.

✅ 4. Odor Absorption & Natural Neutralizers

Even after a good clean, odor molecules can linger in the air. Time to neutralize them.

• Place baking soda, activated charcoal, or coffee grounds in small bowls around the unit (out of sight but accessible to air).
• Spray fabric surfaces lightly with a natural deodorizing mix:
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tbsp baking soda
  • 10 drops essential oil (lemon, eucalyptus, lavender)

✅ 5. Treat Problem Areas with Enzyme Cleaners

If your dog has had any indoor accidents—even ones cleaned up months ago—the scent may still linger deep in the flooring or furniture.

•  Spot-treat carpets, corners, or furniture with enzyme cleaner (e.g., Nature’s Miracle, Rocco & Roxie).
•  Allow cleaner to fully dry before vacuuming or reusing space.

✅ 6. Add Finishing Touches

These last-minute details can make the space smell fresh without raising suspicions that anything is being covered up.

•  Lightly scent space with candle, diffuser, or plug-in (choose fresh, not overpowering scents).
•  Remove all visible pet items (toys, bowls, leashes) for showings.
•  Do a quick final air-out (15+ minutes) before buyers or guests arrive.

Final Thoughts

Dog odors don’t have to be a deal-killer. With the right preparation and a thorough, proactive cleaning plan, you can turn any pet-friendly apartment into a buyer-ready, nose-friendly home.

If you’re prepping your apartment in South Miami, Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, or Brickell, and want professional advice on how to sell it fast and fresh, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to help—from pet odor strategies to full listing prep.

👉 Thomas Druck | Miami Realtor (305) 395-1288
📍 thomasdruckrealtor.com
📧 tom@thomasdruckrealtor.com

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