There could be several reasons why your blankets retain a bad smell after washing and drying, while your clothes do not. Some possible explanations include:
Absorbency: Blankets are typically made of thicker, more absorbent materials than clothes. If your dog comes into contact with the blankets frequently, they may absorb more of the dog's odor and body oils, leading to the persistent smell.
Laundering frequency: Blankets are often washed less frequently than clothes. If your blankets go longer between washes, the dog smell can build up over time, making it harder to remove with regular washing.
Detergent and washing temperature: Using a regular detergent and washing in colder water may not be sufficient to remove stubborn smells like pet odors. Consider using a detergent specifically designed to tackle tough odors and washing the blankets in hotter water, if the fabric allows for it.
Drying methods: Drying blankets in a dryer might not be as effective in removing odors compared to hanging them outside in the fresh air and sunlight. Sunlight can help naturally disinfect and deodorize fabrics.
Storage conditions: If your blankets are stored in an area where they are exposed to pet dander or odors, such as near your dog's bed or favorite lounging spot, they may pick up the smell even after washing.
To help eliminate the dog odor from your blankets, you can try the following tips:
Pre-treat the blankets by soaking them in a mixture of water and white vinegar before washing. Vinegar can help neutralize odors.
Use a detergent specifically designed to combat tough odors, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate amount to use.
Wash the blankets in hot water, if the fabric allows for it.
Add a cup of baking soda to the washing machine during the rinse cycle. Baking soda can help neutralize odors in fabrics.
Hang the blankets outside in the fresh air and sunlight to dry, if possible.
Store the clean blankets in a location away from sources of pet odors or dander.
If the smell persists despite trying these methods, it may be worth consulting a professional cleaner or dry cleaner for more specialized care and advice on how to remove the odor effectively.