Dog and cat urine stains and smells can be very difficult to remove, especially when the stain has had time to set in. Urine can saturate absorbent materials like carpet and padding, furniture and mattresses well beyond the surface and into the backing and subfloor. Unfortunately, this means that even after a thorough cleaning, odors and stains often remain. The good news is that there are many things you can do to help remove pet stains and odors.
The best course of action is to treat the soiled area as soon as possible, preferably right after it occurs. This will help to prevent the dog and cat pee stain removal Phoenix from becoming permanent, as well as protect the health of your pets and the rest of your family. The first step is to blot the spot dry, using paper towels. Don’t rub the spot, as this will only push the urine deeper into the fabric. Repeat the blotting process until there is no more visible or odorous urine left on the towel.
Next, if the area is carpeted, it’s important to vacuum it very thoroughly. If it is a rug or hardwood floor, it’s also a good idea to agitate the spot with a stiff brush or broom. This will help break up the urine and make it easier to vacuum or scrub away.
You should then blot the area again with paper towels, to soak up any remaining moisture. If you’re having trouble removing the odor with this method, try adding one more household staple to your arsenal: baking soda. Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and baking soda in a clean spray bottle, and apply the solution to the soiled area. Leave it on for a few minutes, and then blot again until the stain and odor are gone.
Depending on your preferences and budget, you can also purchase a commercial enzyme cleaner. These products are formulated to break down proteins found in urine, making it easier for you to eliminate pet stains and odors. Melissa Maker, the cleaning expert behind the Clean My Space YouTube channel, recommends Biokleen Bac-Out Stain & Odor Remover, which is plant-based and contains no artificial fragrances or dyes. It’s available on Amazon and comes with a money-back guarantee.
Enzyme cleaners typically require a bit of patience as they work, but they can be effective at eliminating both fresh and dried urine spots. If you’re dealing with an old or particularly smelly stain, it may be a good idea to cover the area loosely with something to stop family members from accidentally stepping on it. Some people use aluminum foil, while others prefer to place an upside down laundry basket or a piece of cardboard over the area.
If you’re having trouble removing stubborn pet stains and odors, it might be a good idea to contact a professional. Chem-Dry can often get pet stains and odors out of carpets, upholstery and mattresses that other cleaning methods have failed to remove. Simply enter your ZIP code to find a local Chem-Dry location!