← Stain and Surface GuidePet Urine Stain Removal Guide
Pet urine needs an enzyme cleaner rather than a standard cleaner, because ordinary soap only masks the odor while enzymes actually break down the compounds that cause both the smell and the stain.
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Carpet
- Blot up as much urine as possible with a clean towel, pressing down firmly to draw out moisture from the padding underneath.
- Saturate the area with an enzyme-based pet stain and odor remover, using enough to reach the same depth the urine soaked in.
- Let the product sit for the time listed on the label, usually 10 to 15 minutes, so the enzymes can fully break down the residue.
- Blot the area dry with clean towels, then let it air dry completely, weighing down a stack of towels over the spot if it is still damp after an hour.
Safety note: Avoid steam cleaning a fresh urine stain, since heat can permanently set the odor into the carpet fibers before the enzymes finish working.
Mattress
- Blot up as much liquid as possible immediately with clean towels, pressing rather than rubbing.
- Apply an enzyme-based pet odor remover to the spot, using enough to penetrate as deep as the urine soaked.
- Let the product sit for the time listed on the label, then blot with clean, dry towels until the area is barely damp.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the spot once it has mostly dried, leave it for several hours, then vacuum it up.
Safety note: Keep liquid to a minimum and let the mattress dry fully before putting sheets back on, since trapped moisture can lead to mold.
Hardwood
- Wipe up the urine immediately with a paper towel or cloth, since hardwood can absorb liquid quickly through the finish.
- Clean the area with a small amount of mild soap and water on a barely damp cloth, then dry it right away.
- Apply an enzyme-based cleaner formulated for hard surfaces to address any lingering odor, following the label directions.
- Dry the floor thoroughly with a clean towel, since standing moisture can warp wood or damage the finish.
Safety note: Avoid soaking hardwood floors or using a steam mop on urine stains, since both moisture and heat can damage the wood finish and even cause warping.