Quick answer

Spray Febreze Fabric Refresher evenly onto dry carpet or upholstery from about 12 inches away, let it air dry for 15–20 minutes, and the odor-fighting mist neutralizes smells without washing.

Why use Febreze Fabric Refresher instead of washing?

Washing large items like sofas or wall-to-wall carpet is impractical. Febreze Fabric Refresher uses a fine mist that penetrates fabric fibers to fight odors such as pet smells, smoke, and body odors, leaving a light fresh scent. It works on soft surfaces you can't easily throw in the washing machine.

Choosing the right Febreze Fabric Refresher for your needs

For heavy pet odors or smoke, the Extra Strength 67.6 oz Refill (product ID 13530) offers a stronger formula. If you prefer a familiar laundry scent, the Gain Island Fresh 23.6 fl oz (product ID 13509) is a good choice. Both are effective on carpets, upholstery, and rugs.

Step-by-step guide to freshen carpets and upholstery

  1. Prepare the surface: Vacuum the carpet or upholstery to remove loose dirt and debris. This ensures the mist reaches the fabric fibers. For best results, the fabric should be dry. Skipping vacuuming can trap odors under the spray, reducing effectiveness.
  2. Test in an inconspicuous area: Before spraying the entire surface, test Febreze Fabric Refresher on a hidden spot (e.g., under a cushion or in a corner) to check for colorfastness. Wait a few minutes to ensure no discoloration occurs. Most fabrics are safe, but test first on delicate or dark materials.
  3. Spray evenly from 12 inches away: Hold the can upright about 12 inches from the fabric. Spray in a sweeping motion to cover the area evenly. Avoid saturating the fabric; a light mist is enough. Focus on spots where odors are strongest, like pet bedding or high-traffic carpet areas. Over-wetting can leave a damp feel and take longer to dry.
  4. Allow to air dry completely: Let the spray dry naturally for 15–20 minutes. Keep the area well-ventilated and avoid sitting or walking on the fabric until dry. The odor-fighting mist works as it dries, neutralizing smells. Drying time may vary with humidity; do not use heat to speed drying.
  5. Repeat if necessary: For stubborn odors like cigarette smoke or strong pet smells, a second application after the first dries can provide extra odor-fighting power. The Extra Strength variant (product ID 13530) is formulated for tougher jobs. If the smell persists after two applications, consider a deeper cleaning method.

Product facts

  • Febreze Fabric Spray Air Freshener, Odor-Fighting, Pet Odor Fighter, 67.6 oz Refill: Febreze FABRIC doesn't just mask odors, it fights odors from fabrics that you wish you could wash, leaving your fabrics with a light, fresh scent. The fine mist works deep in fabrics, cleaning them of common odors such as pet smells, smoke, and body odors. This spray is ideal for weekly use on carpets and upholstery, offering a practical alternative to washing for items like sofas and rugs.

    Febreze Fabric Spray Air Freshener, Odor-Fighting, Pet Odor Fighter, 67.6 oz Refill

    Febreze Fabric Spray Air Freshener, Odor-Fighting, Pet Odor Fighter, 67.6 oz Refill

  • Febreze Fabric Spray Air Freshener, Odor-Fighting Fabric Refresher, Gain Island Fresh, 23.6 fl oz: Febreze Fabric Refresher is your trusted solution for revitalizing a multitude of hard-to-wash materials throughout your home, from upholstered sofas to throw pillows. The Gain Island Fresh scent adds a pleasant freshness to your home while neutralizing odors, making it a great choice for everyday use.

    Febreze Fabric Spray Air Freshener, Odor-Fighting Fabric Refresher, Gain Island Fresh, 23.6 fl oz

    Febreze Fabric Spray Air Freshener, Odor-Fighting Fabric Refresher, Gain Island Fresh, 23.6 fl oz