Pet stains and odours are not only offensive to everyone in the home but are also incredibly challenging to remove from carpets. Replacing stained carpets and throw rugs is expensive, so it is worthwhile to maintain your investment.
Three ways to remove pet stains and lingering odours from your precious carpets can make your carpets last, regardless of Fido’s best efforts.
- You have better odds of mitigating pet odours by catching a recent stain. Carpets can absorb liquid quickly, so time is of the essence. Grab paper towel or a clean rag to soak up as much of the liquid as possible. A wet vacuum also comes in handy.
Next, neutralize the wet spot with a cleaning solution of half white vinegar and half water. A cleaner with enzymes also works superbly. Douse the spot to neutralize the bacteria and odour in the pet urine. Let sit for 3-5 minutes or more or follow the instructions on the enzyme cleaner bottle.
An additional step to further neutralize the smell is to sprinkle baking soda over the vinegar mixture. Cover the spot with a damp clean towel or rag for an extra 24 hours. Finally, rinse with clean water and vacuum once dry.
For enhanced odour control, lightly spritz area with a natural essential oil spray.
- Unfortunately, we don’t always catch our pet in the act and may come across a stain that happened some time ago. Now you know what that smell was! In this case, mix dish soap in water and pour onto stain. Blot repeatedly with a clean rag or paper towel until the stain disappears.
If the stain is still there, soak a clean rag in half vinegar and water and blot repeatedly. Next, sprinkle on baking soda. Mix more dish soap with 125 ml of hydrogen peroxide and pour onto the stain. Scrub with a soft brush, then pat dry. A pet odour neutralizer may be applied after the stain dries to further deter your pet from remarking his or her territory.
- Regrettably, our little fur buddies cannot tell us when they’re not feeling well. We simply don’t know until one of them retches on the carpet. It’s a good thing that furball is so adorable!
The acidity of vomit can stain quickly, so don’t wait. Scoop up as much of the vomit as you can and flush down the toilet. Next, blot remaining moisture with a clean rag. Quickly mix a solution of 500 ml water, 15 ml salt, 15 ml dish soap, and 125 ml vinegar. Mix well. Soak a soft cloth or sponge in mixture, then apply to stain. Lightly blot and repeat for stubborn stains. Remove cleaner with a clean rag dipped in water; blot dry with a clean towel. Vacuum once dry.
In any event, most people will appreciate the benefits of wearing a mask while removing pet stains from carpets. Although time-consuming, it’s sensible to protect and maintain your carpeting. Keep rugs out of the landfill and looking like new.
For busy homeowners who don’t have much extra time, contact our expert carpet cleaners. We know how to deodorize and clean your carpets whenever you need help.