Cleaning a cat or dog urine stain (and the smell)
Accidents happen. You have to clean quickly and especially remove the smell so he doesn't start again.
Recommended Materials
- Paper towels
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Sparkling water
Steps to follow
Step 1
Immediate action (Blot): If the accident just happened, absorb as much liquid as possible with paper towels. Do not rub (this spreads the urine and makes it penetrate the fibers), dab firmly. Step on the paper to absorb well.
Step 2
Dilution (Sparkling water): Pour sparkling water on the stain. The bubbles help bring the urine up from the depths of the carpet. Blot again.
Step 3
Cleaning (White vinegar): Mix 1/3 white vinegar and 2/3 lukewarm water (add a drop of dish soap). Pour over the stain. Leave on for 10-15 minutes. Vinegar disinfects and neutralizes the ammonia in urine. Blot.
Step 4
The anti-odor secret weapon (Baking soda): Sprinkle baking soda generously over the still damp area. Work it in a little with your fingers (wear gloves). Let dry completely (this can take several hours, or even overnight). The baking soda will absorb the remaining moisture and trap bad odors.
Step 5
Finishing: Once everything is completely dry, vacuum up the baking soda powder. There will be no stain or smell left.
Step 6
ABSOLUTELY FORBIDDEN: NEVER use Bleach. The smell of ammonia contained in Bleach resembles the smell of urine for a cat/dog. This will encourage him to pee again in exactly the same place to 'cover' the smell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Old and dry stain ?
Re-wet the area with the vinegar/water mixture and proceed in the same way. If the smell really persists, buy an enzymatic odor destroyer in a pet store (it 'eats' the bacteria responsible for the smell).
Precautions
- Test vinegar on a corner of the carpet (colors).
- Do not scold the animal if you do not catch him in the act (he does not understand).
