Removing Pet Stains and Odor

Most homeowners that own a pet will experience the pains of pet stains and odors at some point during their pet owning years.

I’m sure there are many of you already experiencing this with a new little puppy the family got for Christmas.

Cleaning up after our pets is all part of the job description that we have to deal with every now and then.

When this happens the goal is to effectively remove the stain from the floor, wall, furniture, or other item and then to actually remove the odor that tends to linger as well.

Contrary to what you may think or hear, not all the chemicals you purchase will actually remove pet stains and odors. So if you’re looking for a natural cleaning method, take a look on down the page.

Basic Pet Stain Removal

The first thing you need to know is the basic procedure of stain removal for carpets, fabrics, and clothing. Here are some things you can always fall back on when necessary.

1. Time is essential. We’ve said it time and again, you need to get to the stain as quickly as you can. When you do this, you’re able to get most of the liquid out of the carpet, off a hard floor surface, or off the wall before it can cause any damage or create a bad smell in the house.
2. Use paper towels to absorb as much of the mess from the carpet as possible. Liquid should be blot, blot, blotted out of the carpet until you cannot get any more out. Do not scrub, it will only spread the mess around and you’ll end up creating more work for yourself!
3. White Vinegar and Water to clean. Dilute vinegar in a bottle 50/50 with warm water. Spray onto the stain and blot with more paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. This will also neutralize odor. Allow to dry.
4. For old stains, mix together 1 cup hydrogen peroxide, 1 Tablespoon baking soda, and a few drops of liquid detergent. Liberally apply to the stain (don’t over saturate though), let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, blot up liquid, let dry.
5. To neutralize remaining smells of urine; after cleaning has dried, sprinkle baking soda onto the carpet or fabric and carefully work in using your fingers. Allow it to absorb the odors for 24 hours then vacuum.
6. To remove urine from clothing add 1 to 2 cups white vinegar only (cold water) to appropriate sized load. Wash, if stain and odor is gone, wash again using 1 baking soda and regular detergent.
7. In an emergency situation, you can treat the stain with club soda. Or, use seltzer water. Then, go back and treat it as instructed above.

While drying, lay a clean towel over the area to keep pets and humans from walking on the clean carpet or furniture.

Pet Stains on Floors And Walls

For whatever reason a dog or cat has accidents in the home, it not only happens to carpets, furniture, and clothing but floors, walls, and baseboards too.

1. Again, time is essential. The quicker you get to the stain the less damage it can do.
2. If there is puddling on the floor, soak it up with a rag or paper towels.
3. Mix together a mix of white vinegar and water (75/25). Use a sponge or old rag to clean up the mess then dry.

Do not use vinegar on stone or marble floors as it can cause etching and ruin the finish.

In extreme circumstances, you may need to remove and replace the layer of varnish or paint. Again, acting quickly can minimize the amount of damage your pet can do.

If the problem persists, there may be a health issue with your pet. A visit to the vet can help you all out!