4 DIY Dog Deodorizers With Ingredients At Home (Beginner Friendly)
As a pet lover with a house full of animals—dogs, cats, and rabbits—one thing I’ve come to appreciate is the importance of keeping my pets and my home smelling fresh. No matter how much we love our dogs, let’s be honest—they don’t always smell like roses, especially after a fun day at the park or a rainy walk.
Bathing them frequently isn’t always practical, so I started making my own DIY dog deodorizers. It’s a fun, simple, and affordable way to keep my dogs smelling great between baths. Plus, it’s all-natural, so I know exactly what’s going into it and that it’s safe for my pets. If you’re excited to try this project with me, I’ve got some easy, creative, and budget-friendly DIY dog deodorizer ideas to share!
DIY Dog Deodorizer: Step by Step
Materials Needed
Before we jump into the different deodorizer ideas, let’s go over the basic materials you’ll need. These are affordable, safe, and easy to find at your local store, making this project budget-friendly and quick to put together.
- Baking soda: $1–$2
- Cornstarch: $2–$3
- Apple cider vinegar: $3–$5
- Distilled water: Free (or less than $1 if purchased)
- Lavender or chamomile essential oil (optional for scent): $5–$7
- Spray bottle or shaker: $1–$3
- Measuring spoons: Already have these!
Altogether, the cost for these ingredients will typically range from $5 to $10, and you can make multiple batches of deodorizer from just one purchase.
Phase 1: Mixing the Ingredients
Once you have your materials, you’ll need to decide whether you’re making a spray or a powder deodorizer. Both are simple, and they work great for keeping your dog smelling fresh. Start by mixing the dry or wet ingredients together in a bowl, making sure the measurements are accurate. If you’re using essential oils, only add a few drops, as dogs have sensitive noses and a strong scent can overwhelm them.
Phase 2: Applying the Deodorizer
For powder deodorizers, sprinkle a light amount over your dog’s coat and gently rub it in, avoiding the face area. For spray deodorizers, mist a light layer over your dog’s fur, again focusing on the body and avoiding their face. Let the deodorizer sit for a few minutes before brushing it out, leaving your dog’s fur smelling fresh and clean.
3 Easy DIY Dog Deodorizer Ideas
Now that we’ve covered the basic steps, let’s explore three easy DIY dog deodorizer recipes that you can make at home. Each one is designed to be safe, effective, and super budget-friendly.
1. Baking Soda and Cornstarch Powder Deodorizer
This is one of the easiest and most effective deodorizer recipes, and it only requires two ingredients: baking soda and cornstarch. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber, while cornstarch helps to eliminate excess oils in your dog’s fur, leaving them feeling fresh and clean.
To make this deodorizer, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of cornstarch in a shaker or small bowl. If you want to add a pleasant scent, you can mix in 2–3 drops of lavender essential oil, which is safe for dogs in small amounts. Shake the mixture over your dog’s coat, avoiding their face, and massage it in. Let it sit for a few minutes before brushing the powder out.
This powder deodorizer is perfect for quick touch-ups between baths and works well on both dogs and cats. The total cost for this recipe is around $3, and it’s so simple that you can whip up a batch in just minutes.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar and Water Spray Deodorizer
For a quick and easy spray deodorizer, apple cider vinegar is a go-to ingredient. It helps neutralize odors and leaves your dog’s coat smelling fresh without the need for synthetic fragrances. To make this deodorizer, mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of distilled water in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use.
You can also add 2–3 drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil for a mild, soothing scent, but it’s optional. Mist the solution lightly over your dog’s fur, avoiding the face, and let it air dry. Apple cider vinegar is not only a natural deodorizer, but it also helps to repel fleas and ticks, making this spray both practical and beneficial.
This spray is great for dogs who are constantly outdoors and need a quick refresh. The total cost for this deodorizer is around $4–$5, and it’s incredibly versatile—plus, you can use it as a household deodorizer too!
3. Coconut Oil and Baking Soda Deodorizer Paste
If your dog has extra stubborn odors, a coconut oil and baking soda paste is the perfect solution. Coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties and adds a pleasant, mild scent to your dog’s coat, while baking soda works to neutralize strong smells.
To make this deodorizer, mix 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a small bowl until it forms a thick paste. Apply the paste to your dog’s fur, focusing on areas where the odor is strongest, such as the neck or belly. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, then wipe away any excess with a damp cloth. You can follow up with a light brushing to distribute the coconut oil through your dog’s fur.
This deodorizer works great on dogs with dry skin or those prone to odor after outdoor adventures. The coconut oil leaves the fur soft and conditioned while helping to eliminate any lingering smells. The total cost is around $4–$6, depending on the size of the batch.
FAQs
1. Are DIY dog deodorizers safe for all dogs?
Yes, DIY dog deodorizers made with natural ingredients like baking soda, cornstarch, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar are safe for most dogs. However, it’s always a good idea to do a small patch test first to make sure your dog doesn’t have any sensitivities, especially with essential oils. Be cautious about using essential oils and avoid ingredients that may be harmful to dogs.
2. How often can I use a DIY dog deodorizer?
You can use a DIY dog deodorizer as often as needed. If your dog tends to get smelly between baths or after playing outside, a quick application of deodorizer can help freshen them up. However, it’s important not to overdo it, as too much product can build up on your dog’s coat and skin.
3. Can I use these deodorizers on other pets like cats or rabbits?
Many of these deodorizers are safe for other pets like cats or rabbits, but always check to ensure the ingredients are safe for each type of animal. For example, cats can be sensitive to essential oils, so it’s best to avoid using them in products meant for cats. Stick with basic ingredients like baking soda or cornstarch for other pets.
4. Will DIY dog deodorizers replace regular baths?
No, DIY dog deodorizers are meant to be used as a way to freshen your dog between baths, not as a replacement for a full bath. Regular baths are still important for maintaining your dog’s hygiene, but deodorizers are great for keeping your dog smelling fresh in between.
DIY dog deodorizers are a simple and fun way to keep your furry friend smelling fresh without the hassle of a full bath. Whether you choose a powder, spray, or paste formula, these deodorizers are budget-friendly, easy to make, and safe for your dog’s skin and coat. So grab your ingredients and give your pup a refreshing boost with one of these easy DIY deodorizer recipes—they’ll smell amazing, and you’ll love the results!
