Removing Pet Urine Stains and Feces Stains from Carpets

One of the most common mistakes people make when removing pet stains on carpet is using detergent to clean it up.

Soap leaves a residue and is just about impossible to completely remove from carpeting. This residue will attract any dirt it comes in contact with, which is why stains keep coming back.

Instead, first remove all solids and blot up as much liquid as possible. Use plain water to dilute the stain and blot again with a clean absorbent cloth or paper towels to remove liquid.

If you do not keep an enzymatic cleaner (made for pet stains) on hand there are quite a few easy homemade cleaning solutions to make that can remove the stain and eliminate odors.

Remember, immediate action works best but if it has dried and you can smell the accident, use your nose to find it or in the case of a urine accident, use a blacklight to detect the spot.

Using Vinegar to Remove Pet Urine from Carpet

White vinegar is safe for many surfaces (do not use on marble, travertine or natural stone floors as vinegar can damage the surface) and it’s a mild disinfectant and a natural deodorizer. Vinegar will not leave a residue behind as a detergent will.

As mentioned above, start by soaking up as much liquid as possible using clean absorbent material. As with any stain and lingering odors, it could take several applications to get the job done.

• After soaking up as much urine as you can, apply plain water to the area. Do not oversoak as we don’t want to soak the padding under the carpet – just enough to remove more of the urine.
• To neutralize the odor, mix 1 cup white vinegar and 1 cup warm water together then apply this to the stain. Again, do not over saturate, just a light amount.
• Once again, blot, blot, blot (do not rub the stain as you can spread the stain and damage the carpet fibers) until you’ve removed as much liquid as you can.
• Repeat as needed.
• Cover with a clean dry towel until completely dry.

Removing Pet Feces from Carpet

Of all pet stains, feces is probably the worst. However, using the appropriate products and methods can make the job a little easier.

• First, use something (spoon or spatula or paper towel if you can) to gently scoop up as much of the poop as possible and wear gloves.
• If necessary, use a moist paper towel or clean cloth to wipe up excess poop from carpet.
• Completely mix together 2 cups cold water, 1 cup white vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon non-bleach dishwashing liquid.
• Pour a small amount over the stain, again don’t over saturate the area. Use a clean rag to gently clean the area and blot until you’ve gotten up as much liquid as possible. Repeat if needed.
• When the stain is gone, once again, pour a small amount of plain water over the area and gently blot up liquid.
• Place clean dry towel over the area until completely dry.

The above is the best home remedy for removing feces. However, if the stain is bad and not coming out, then you might consider using Nature’s Miracle or Bio-Aid, both enzyme-based products available at many retail stores.

Deodorizing Any Odors

If, after cleaning pet stains, you notice lingering odors you can simply pour some baking soda over the area and carefully work into the carpet where the accident happened.

Cover with a clean towel and let it sit for quite a few hours, even overnight if you want. Vacuum well.

Pet stuff happens. These simple tips can help to clean up your pet’s mess.