How to Remove Dog Drool from Couch

Dog drool on your couch can quickly become a frustrating challenge, especially when it leaves stubborn stains and lingering odours. Whether your dog is a gentle cuddler or an enthusiastic drooler, drool can cause unsightly marks that are hard to remove and even harder to neutralise. 

Our guide will show practical, effective ways to clean dog drool off your couch safely, addressing different fabric types and common concerns such as preventing damage or discolouration. By learning the right techniques and products, you can restore your furniture and keep your home fresh and welcoming.

What Causes Dog Drool Stains and Odours on Couches?

Dog drool is a protein-based stain that often contains not just saliva but tiny food particles and bacteria. When it lands on your sofa, especially on delicate fabrics, the stain can settle quickly and start to smell. The iron and other compounds in dog saliva contribute to reddish or brownish discolouration and odour buildup. This can make cleaning particularly tricky because not all household cleaners are equipped to break down proteins or safely handle different fabrics. 

How to Check What Your Couch Fabric Can Handle

Before choosing a stain removal method, you might find it helpful to check the care label on your couch cushions or upholstery. Fabric types dictate which cleaning solutions and methods are safe:

• W means water-based cleaners are safe and typically easiest to use.
• S indicates solvent-based cleaners only; water can stain or damage these fabrics.
• WS or SW means both water and solvent cleaners are safe.
• X means vacuuming only or professional cleaning recommended.

Microfiber and synthetic fibers usually fall under water-safe or combined, while leather often requires special leather-safe cleaners. Understanding these codes will prevent further damage or discolouring while you attack the drool stains.

How to Clean Fresh Dog Drool with DIY Solutions

You might find a mixture of everyday household ingredients effective on fresh saliva stains. One popular solution combines white vinegar, water, dish soap, and baking soda:

• Mix 1/4 cup white vinegar, 1 teaspoon dish soap, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 cup cold water in a spray bottle.
• Lightly spray on the stain without soaking it.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down proteins.
• Blot with a clean, damp cloth to lift stains gently.
• Repeat if necessary and air dry.

Using cold water is important because hot water can set protein stains permanently. You might find this method safe for many fabrics but always test on an inconspicuous area first.

How Do You Clean Dried Dog Drool Stains?

Dried drool can be more challenging as the proteins have set and may have discoloured fabric fibres. For dried stains, isopropyl alcohol can be an effective solvent-based cleaner:

• Lightly spray 70% isopropyl alcohol on the drool spot if fabric is solvent-safe.
• Dab the area with a white cloth; avoid rubbing to prevent spreading the stain.
• Let alcohol evaporate naturally.
• Brush the fabric gently afterwards to restore texture.

For water-safe fabrics, a peroxide-based cleaner made from 3% hydrogen peroxide mixed with dish soap may help lift stubborn stains but requires caution as peroxide can bleach certain fibres. Always patch test first.

How to Safely Clean Leather, Velvet, and Other Delicate Fabrics

You might want to avoid water-based cleaners on leather or suede, which require specially formulated products. Leather cleaning kits and wipes designed for automotive or furniture leather often work best and prevent damage or dryness. Avoid using saddle soaps as these can be too harsh and unsuitable for furniture leather.

Silk, velvet, and other delicate fabrics deserve gentle care. For velvet upholstery, a paste made from lemon juice and baking soda can remove stains softly without harsh chemicals. For silk, only small amounts of alcohol-based cleaning agents should be dabbed carefully.

How to Get Rid of That Dog Drool Smell

Even after cleaning up the mess, dog drool can leave behind an unpleasant smell if the proteins and bacteria aren’t fully removed. Here are a few simple ways to tackle lingering odours:

• Baking soda sprinkled on the affected area overnight acts as a natural deodoriser. Vacuum it up thoroughly the next day.
• Enzyme cleaners formulated specifically for pet stains break down proteins and help eliminate both stains and smells. These are especially worthwhile if odour persists despite cleaning.
• Cleaning removable couch covers or sheets in the washing machine with pet-safe detergents also helps reduce smells.

When It’s Time to Call a Professional Cleaner

If persistent stains or odours remain, professional upholstery cleaning can restore your furniture effectively. Many specialist companies have equipment and specialised cleaning agents that can treat set-in pet stains without harming delicate fabrics. You might find professional advice useful if you face tough drool buildup or have expensive, delicate upholstery.

The Easiest Way to Protect Your Couch from Dog Drool

The simplest way to deal with dog drool is to stop it from reaching your couch in the first place. Products like non-slip sofa covers for dogs or washable barrier rugs add a protective layer that shields your furniture from slobber, wet paws, and everyday pet mess.

Quick spot cleaning helps keep things under control, just don’t let stains sit too long. After cleaning, make sure the area dries fully to avoid water marks or fabric damage. Good airflow or a fan can help speed that up.

With the right cover and a bit of routine care, your couch stays cleaner and lasts longer, without constant deep cleaning.