How to Remove Dog Urine Smell from Carpet in 5 Easy-to-Follow Steps

How to Eliminate Dog Urine Smell from Carpet in 5 Easy-to-Follow Steps

Starting out with a dog urine smell out of carpet can be daunting and frustrating for any pet owner. But fear not! Here’s a quick overview to get you started immediately:

1. Blot the Urine: Use paper towels to soak up as much as possible.
2. Apply Vinegar and Baking Soda: Create a cleansing solution.
3. Use Enzymatic Cleaner: Break down the urine components.
4. Rinse and Dry: Ensure no residues are left behind.
5. Apply Baking Soda and Vacuum: Final smell removal steps.

Read on for detailed instructions to ensure a fresh-smelling carpet!

I’m Ahmed Elmahdy, the Digital Marketing Manager at A Plus Carpet Cleaning. With over a decade of experience in the carpet cleaning industry, I’ve helped countless homeowners successfully remove pet odors from their homes. Let’s dive deeper into each step to ensure your carpet is clean and odor-free.

Step 1: Blot the Urine

First things first, let’s tackle the dog urine smell out of carpet by addressing the fresh urine spot.

Materials Needed:

• Paper towels
• Newspaper

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Place Paper Towels Over the Spot:
   Start by placing a thick layer of paper towels directly on the wet spot. If possible, place some underneath the carpet as well. This will help absorb as much urine as possible from both sides.

2. Add a Layer of Newspaper:
   Cover the paper towels with a layer of newspaper. This extra layer will help soak up more urine quickly.

3. Apply Pressure:
   Stand on the paper towels and newspaper for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it helps speed up the absorption process. You can also place a heavy object on the towels if you prefer not to stand.

4. Replace When Needed:
   Continue replacing the paper towels and newspaper until they come up dry. The goal is to remove as much urine as possible before it soaks deeper into the carpet fibers.

Pro Tip: Smelly towels mean success! The more urine you draw out, the less odor remains in your carpet.

Why It Works:

Blotting the urine immediately prevents it from seeping deeper into the carpet and padding, which can create long-lasting odors and stains. Quick action is the key to minimizing damage and smell.

Next, we’ll move on to applying a vinegar and baking soda solution to further neutralize the odor and clean the area effectively.

Transition smoothly to the next section by introducing the vinegar and baking soda solution, emphasizing its importance in neutralizing odors and cleaning the carpet.

Step 2: Apply a Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution

Once you’ve blotted up as much urine as possible, it’s time to neutralize the odor and clean the area with a vinegar and baking soda solution.

Materials Needed:

• Distilled white vinegar
• Baking soda
• Spray bottle
• Water
• Towels

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Mix the Solution:
   In a clean spray bottle, combine one cup of distilled white vinegar, one cup of water, and two teaspoons of baking soda. Shake well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.

2. Spray the Solution:
   Generously spray the vinegar and baking soda solution onto the urine stain. Make sure to cover the entire affected area. The vinegar will help break down the urine, while the baking soda will neutralize the odor.

3. Let It Sit:
   Allow the solution to sit on the stain for at least 5-10 minutes. This gives the mixture time to penetrate the carpet fibers and work its magic.

4. Blot the Area:
   Using clean towels, blot the area to absorb the solution along with the dissolved urine. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the urine deeper into the carpet fibers. Instead, press down firmly to soak up as much liquid as possible.

Why It Works:

The combination of vinegar and baking soda is a powerful, natural way to tackle dog urine smell out of carpet. Vinegar’s acidity breaks down the uric acid in urine, while baking soda neutralizes the odor, leaving your carpet smelling fresh.

Pro Tip: Always test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.

Next, we’ll move on to using an enzymatic cleaner for deeper, more thorough odor removal.

By following these steps, you’re well on your way to a cleaner, fresher-smelling carpet. Ready for the next step? Let’s explore the power of enzymatic cleaners.

Step 3: Use an Enzymatic Cleaner

After you’ve treated the area with vinegar and baking soda, it’s time to use an enzymatic cleaner. This step is crucial for breaking down pet stains at a molecular level and ensuring thorough odor removal.

Why Enzymatic Cleaners Work

Enzymatic cleaners contain bio-based enzymes that break down the proteins in urine. These enzymes work at a molecular level to eliminate odors rather than just masking them. According to experts, “They break down the odor-causing molecules into smaller compounds, which takes away the smell” .

Materials Needed:

• Enzymatic cleaner (like Nature’s Miracle or another pet-specific brand)
• Plastic trash bags
• Heavy objects (rocks, bricks, etc.)
• Wet-dry vacuum (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Choose the Right Cleaner:
   Select an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet stains. Make sure it is free of detergents that could interfere with the enzyme action.

2. Apply the Cleaner:
   Spray the enzymatic cleaner generously over the affected area. Since urine can spread beneath the carpet surface, apply the cleaner to the stain and extend a few inches beyond to ensure complete coverage.

3. Cover the Area:
   Place plastic trash bags over the treated area to keep it moist. Weigh down the bags with heavy objects like rocks or bricks. This step is essential as enzymes need moisture to remain active.

4. Let It Sit:
   Allow the enzymatic cleaner to work for 24 to 36 hours. The enzymes will break down the urine molecules during this time, effectively neutralizing the odor.

5. Remove the Plastic and Air Dry:
   After 24 to 36 hours, remove the plastic bags and allow the area to air dry. You can use fans to speed up the drying process.

6. Optional: Use a Wet-Dry Vacuum:
   If you have a wet-dry vacuum, use it to extract any remaining moisture from the carpet. This will help remove any leftover cleaner and urine residue.

Why It Works:

Enzymatic cleaners are highly effective because they break down the urine at its source. This ensures that the dog urine smell out of carpet is completely eliminated, not just covered up. According to a carpet cleaning professional, “Regular application on common pet areas can help prevent odors from setting in, keeping the house smelling fresh” (source).

Pro Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the enzymatic cleaner you choose. Some products may have specific guidelines for optimal results.

By using an enzymatic cleaner, you’re taking a significant step toward removing pet odors at a molecular level. Ready for the next step? Let’s move on to rinsing and drying the area to ensure your carpet is fresh and clean.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Area

Once you’ve used an enzymatic cleaner, it’s important to rinse and dry the area to remove any residue and ensure your carpet is thoroughly clean.

Materials Needed:

• Plain water
• Wet-dry vacuum
• Clean towels or rags
• Fans (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Rinse with Plain Water:
   Begin by rinsing the treated area with plain water. Use a spray bottle or gently pour water over the spot. This helps to dilute and remove any remaining enzymatic cleaner and urine residue.

2. Blot the Area:
   Use clean towels or rags to blot the area. Press down firmly to absorb as much moisture as possible. You can even stand on the towels to apply more pressure. This step is crucial for soaking up excess water and cleaner.

3. Use a Wet-Dry Vacuum:
   If you have a wet-dry vacuum, now is the time to use it. This type of vacuum is excellent for extracting moisture from your carpet. Go over the wet area several times to ensure it’s as dry as possible. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming.

4. Avoid Using a Steam Cleaner:
   Do not use a steam cleaner on the treated area. The heat from the steam can set the odor and stain permanently into the carpet fibers. Stick to plain water and blotting or use a wet-dry vacuum for best results.

5. Air Dry the Area:
   Allow the carpet to air dry completely. You can speed up this process by using fans to circulate air around the room. Make sure the area is completely dry before allowing pets or foot traffic on it.

Why It Works:

Rinsing and drying the area ensures that all residues are removed, leaving your carpet fresh and clean. By avoiding steam cleaners, you prevent setting the stain and odor permanently.

Pro Tip: If you notice any lingering smells after drying, you can repeat the rinsing and blotting steps. Sometimes, stubborn odors require a bit more effort to completely eliminate.

By thoroughly rinsing and drying the area, you ensure that your carpet is free of any remaining cleaner and urine residues. Ready to tackle the final step? Let’s move on to applying baking soda and vacuuming the area for a fresh finish.

Step 5: Apply Baking Soda and Vacuum

Once your carpet is dry, it’s time to apply baking soda and vacuum. This step will help neutralize any remaining odors and ensure your carpet is completely fresh.

Materials Needed:

• Baking soda
• Vacuum cleaner

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Sprinkle Baking Soda:
   Generously sprinkle baking soda over the affected area. Make sure to cover not just the spot where the urine was, but also a few inches around it. This ensures that any lingering odor is addressed.

2. Let It Sit:
   Allow the baking soda to sit on the carpet for at least 15 minutes. For more stubborn odors, you can leave it overnight. The longer it sits, the more effective it will be at absorbing odors.

3. Vacuum Thoroughly:
   After the baking soda has had time to work, vacuum the area thoroughly. Use slow, overlapping strokes to ensure you pick up all the baking soda. This will also lift any remaining dirt and debris from your carpet fibers.

4. Check for Odors:
   Once you’ve vacuumed, take a moment to check for any lingering odors. If you still notice a smell, you can repeat the baking soda application and vacuuming process. Sometimes, particularly strong odors might need a second or even third treatment.

Why It Works:

Baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer. Its crystalline structure binds to volatile molecules, effectively neutralizing them without leaving any residue. This makes it an excellent choice for getting the dog urine smell out of carpet.

Pro Tip: For an added boost, you can mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with the baking soda before applying it to the carpet. This can leave a pleasant scent behind once the baking soda is vacuumed up.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your carpet is not just clean but also free of any lingering dog urine smells. Ready to address some common questions? Let’s move on to the frequently asked questions about removing dog urine smell from carpet.

Frequently Asked Questions about Removing Dog Urine Smell from Carpet

What kills the smell of dog urine in carpet?

Baking soda is a powerful tool for killing the smell of dog urine in carpet. It works by neutralizing odors and maximizing absorption. Here’s a simple process:

1. Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area.
2. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or overnight for tougher odors.
3. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all the baking soda and any remaining residue.

This method ensures that odors are absorbed and neutralized effectively.

Is it possible to get old urine smell out of carpet?

Yes, it is possible to get old urine smell out of carpet. One effective approach involves using a combination of distilled white vinegar, water, and baking soda:

1. Mix a solution of one cup distilled white vinegar and one cup water.
2. Spray the solution onto the old urine stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Blot the area with a towel to absorb the liquid.
4. Sprinkle baking soda over the treated area and let it sit overnight.
5. Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda.

For persistent odors, you might need to repeat the process. This method helps break down old urine molecules and neutralizes the smell.

What neutralizes dog urine smell?

A combination of vinegar, water, and an enzymatic cleaner is highly effective at neutralizing dog urine smell. Here’s how:

1. Vinegar and water: Mix a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water. Spray it on the urine stain and blot dry. Vinegar helps neutralize the bacteria causing the odor.
2. Enzymatic cleaner: These bio-based cleansers break down odor-causing molecules at a molecular level. Simply spray or apply the enzymatic cleaner as per the product instructions and let it sit.

Enzymatic cleaners are especially important because they do more than mask the smell—they break down the bacteria and proteins in the urine, ensuring the odor is completely eliminated.

By using these methods, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle and remove dog urine smell from carpet effectively.

Conclusion

Removing dog urine smell out of carpet can be challenging, but with the right steps, it’s definitely achievable. We’ve outlined a thorough process that includes blotting, applying a vinegar and baking soda solution, using an enzymatic cleaner, and finally rinsing and drying the area. This method ensures that odors are neutralized and your carpet is fresh and clean.

However, if you find that the smell persists or if you prefer professional help, A Plus Carpet Cleaning in Grove City, Ohio, is here for you. We specialize in professional carpet cleaning services that effectively eliminate dog urine smell and other tough odors. Our team uses advanced techniques and eco-friendly products to ensure your carpets are clean and odor-free.

For more information about our services and to schedule an appointment, visit our services page. Let us help you keep your home fresh and your carpets looking their best.

By following our guide or opting for our professional services, you’ll be well on your way to eliminating dog urine smell from your carpet and enjoying a cleaner, fresher home.