Learn how to clean up the stains and odors left behind when cats and dogs have accidents indoors.
Accidents are bound to happen with animals in the house.
Acting quickly and cleaning up as much waste as possible before treating the stain is essential.
Credit: Edmund Barr
But with the right technique, it won’t be permanent.
Even when the stain is visibly gone, however, the odor might persist.
Removing more now will make it easier to get rid of the odor later.
Credit: Brie Williams
Press aclean clothor a few layers of paper towels on the area to absorb any remaining liquid.
Repeat this process with fresh cloths or paper towels until the area is mostly dry.
An extractor or wet-vac machine works the best.
Credit: Erik Johnson
Use water only, rather than chemicals.
You should also avoid usingsteam cleanersthat could permanently set the stain and odor into the fibers.
Once the area is clean, follow up with a good pet odor neutralizer.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Be sure to test the product on a small portion of the fabric first.
If the stain remains, try using a carpet stain remover specially designed for pets.
Vinegar and baking soda are powerful household ingredients for pet odor removal and neutralization throughout your home.
Wet the area with the mixture before sprinkling on the baking soda.
To eliminate general dog or cat smells, tackle any visible spots or stains using the above strategies.
Then, use thevacuum to pick up pet hair, dander, and dirt.
Mop hard-surface floors with disposable mopping cloths that will catch any remaining pet hair instead of pushing it around.
If the smell persists, consider hiring a professional todeep-clean your carpetsand floors.