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From Furry to Fresh: Cleaning Your Car After a Dog Ride

Learn how to clean dog fur from your car, remove scratches and odors, and keep your Subaru adventure-ready for your furry co-pilot.

At Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, we know that your dog is part of the family. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the park, or out for a long drive, Subaru vehicles are built for pet-friendly travel. But while your dog might love the ride, your car’s interior often tells a different story.

From fur embedded in the seats to lingering smells, slobber stains, and scratches, it’s easy for a great day out to leave a big mess behind. We’ve put together this guide to help you clean up after your pup and protect your Subaru for the next adventure.

How to Clean Dog Fur from Your Car

Dog hair doesn’t just sit on the surface; it clings to your seats, carpets, and every corner of your Subaru. If you’re wondering how to get dog hair off of car seats and keep your vehicle looking sharp, try these proven methods:

Use Rubber Gloves

Put on rubber gloves and run your hands over the seats and fabric. The static helps pull hair out of upholstery quickly and efficiently.

Vacuum with a Pet Hair Attachment

Once the fur is loose, use a vacuum equipped with a pet hair tool to get deep into crevices, carpets, and the seams of your seats.

Try a Lint Roller or Tape

Use a lint roller or wrap wide packing tape around your hand (sticky side out) to remove remaining strands of hair from tight areas like seat belts and headrests.

Mist with Fabric Softener

Mix water and fabric softener in a spray bottle (roughly 1:10 ratio), mist lightly over the upholstery, and let it sit for a few minutes. The hair will release from the fabric more easily during vacuuming.

Always spot-test first and check your Subaru’s interior care instructions before using any sprays.

How to Get Dog Scratches Off Car Interiors and Exterior

If your dog’s excitement leads to a few scratches along the way, there are ways to repair and prevent damage to your vehicle’s interior and exterior.

Leather or Vinyl Interior

Use a leather conditioner or vinyl repair kit to restore lightly scratched areas. Clean the surface first, then apply the product as directed and gently buff it in.

Cloth Interiors

If your seats are cloth and have small snags or fuzz caused by your dog’s claws, use a fabric shaver to smooth them out.

Exterior Paint

Minor exterior scratches can be treated with a car scratch remover kit. For deeper scratches, schedule a visit to the Hicks Family Subaru service center for professional touch-up.

To prevent future damage, consider using pet seat covers and keep your dog’s nails trimmed before road trips.

How to Get Rid of Dog Smell in a Car

Even the cleanest pups can leave behind an odor, especially after a beach day or park visit. If you’re asking how to get rid of dog smell in a car, here are a few practical solutions:

Use Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda on seats and floors, let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up. It absorbs odors naturally without harsh chemicals.

Spray a White Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist cloth surfaces. Vinegar helps neutralize pet smells and fades once dry.

Place Activated Charcoal

Charcoal bags are a scent-free way to absorb odors over time. Place them under seats or in cupholders for long-term freshness.

Try a Pet-Safe Fabric Refresher

Use a store-bought spray designed to neutralize pet odors without leaving behind strong fragrances. Make sure it’s labeled safe for use around animals.

Opening your windows after a cleaning session also helps clear out trapped smells.

How to Clean Dog Drool Off a Car Interior

Dog drool is a side effect of joy, but it doesn’t do your Subaru’s interior any favors. Here’s how to clean dog drool off your car interior before it leaves lasting marks.

Use a Microfiber Cloth and Pet-Safe Cleaner

Quickly wiping up drool with a microfiber cloth helps prevent stains. For tougher spots, use a pet-safe cleaner designed for automotive surfaces.

Clean Windows and Dash with Glass Cleaner

For smudges on the glass and dashboard, use a non-streaking glass cleaner. Wipe with a clean microfiber cloth to restore clarity without residue.

The faster you clean up, the easier it is to prevent long-term damage.

How to Prevent the Mess: Pet Accessories That Help

Keeping your Subaru clean is much easier with the right gear. At Hicks Family Subaru, we offer pet-friendly accessories built to protect your vehicle’s interior and make cleanup simple.

Here are a few essentials:

  • Waterproof Seat Covers: Protects your seats from fur, drool, and scratches. Easy to remove and wash.
  • Cargo Liners: Great for dogs who ride in the back. Helps guard against dirt, sand, and shedding.
  • All-Weather Floor Mats: Capture mud, spills, and hair. Easily rinsed or wiped clean.

All accessories are designed to fit your Subaru model perfectly, so you get coverage without compromising comfort or style.

Visit Hicks Family Subaru to Gear Up for Your Next Dog-Friendly Drive

You don’t have to choose between road trip adventures and a clean car. With the right cleaning tips and accessories, your Subaru can easily handle every outing.Visit Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi to explore genuine Subaru accessories, schedule interior detailing, or ask our team about protecting your vehicle from fur, scratches, and odors. We’re here to help you and your pup enjoy the ride, without the mess.

Hicks Family Subaru

3615 South Padre Island Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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