Our pets are part of the family. Even when they make messes, we love the happiness they bring to our homes. We understand that accidents can happen, but that doesn’t mean that pet urine and odors are a joy to clean up.
Don’t worry—this isn’t a task you have to take on yourself. We’ve compiled our favorite solutions for removing pet stains and odors from carpet.
Do-It-Yourself Cleaning Solutions
Mixing a cleaning solution at home is a popular trend—in large part due to the money it can save you. Plus, there are homemade cleaners that are effective at lifting surface stains in a more natural way than store bought cleaners.
Start by gently blotting the area with a towel prior to applying the solution. And be warned: homemade cleaners do have the potential to discolor your carpet, so be sure to spot check a small area before cleaning an entire stain.
When you apply the cleaner, remember to gently blot the stained area rather than scrubbing too hard, as this pushes the stain further into the carpet.
It’s also a wise rule of thumb to only use a small amount of solution at a time and repeat the process rather than dumping on a lot of cleaner all at once. This can leave behind a residue that actually attracts more dirt and stains in the future.
DIY #1 – Vinegar And Baking Soda
Lightly wet the stain with vinegar, then sprinkle baking soda on top. You’ll hear the vinegar and baking soda react together, creating a fizzy bubbly sound. This is evidence that it’s working!
Cover the stain with a towel or plastic wrap. Wait for the spot to dry completely (this typically takes up to 2 days). Scoop up the leftover baking soda, rinse the stained area with water, then pat it dry and vacuum up any excess moisture.
DIY #2 – Ammonia
Ammonia is a common ingredient in homemade cleaners. Simply mix 2 tablespoons of ammonia into 1 cup water, then rinse the stained area. Repeat as needed, then towel dry and vacuum away the excess water.
DIY #3 – Dishwashing Detergent
Combine ¼ teaspoon dishwashing detergent with 1 cup of warm water in a spray bottle. Apply to the stain, repeat as needed, then towel dry and vacuum the area.
It’s key to use dishwashing detergent—not dish soap.
DIY #4 – Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix 4 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Combine in a spray bottle with a few drops of dish soap. Spray on the stain and repeat as needed. Lightly rinse the area with water, towel dry, and vacuum any leftover moisture.
Store Bought Stain Removers
There are many effective stain removers you can purchase in-store. The good news is, many come in non-toxic formulas that are safe for pets.
Before spraying the cleaner, dry up as much moisture as you can with a towel. Spray the cleaner—we recommend OxiClean, Resolve, or Spot Shot—then wipe the excess away with a towel. Rinse the area to remove any leftover residue, then towel dry and vacuum.
Always remember to use a small amount of cleaner then repeat the process as needed. Over-saturating the area can deposit dirt-attracting residue to your carpet fibers.
Let Professional Carpet Cleaners Do The Work For You
Staying on top of pet stains is a hassle, and it requires a lot of work to be done right. DIY methods can only do so much on serious stains.
Pet urine soaks beneath the surface to the carpet backing, and sometimes even the carpet pad and hard flooring. As the moisture dries, super-concentrated odor crystals are left behind. These smelly crystals will continue releasing odor into your home unless cleaned by a professional.
To effectively remove dust, stains, and odors caused by pet urine, it’s vital to schedule a professional pet urine removal treatment every 3-4 months.
See how the revolutionary Chem-Dry Pet Urine Removal Treatment works to break down pet odors and stains and schedule your appointment today!
