We all know that pets will have accidents, no matter how well-trained they are. For example, if your dog finds something in the trash that she doesn’t like, it could be a problem. Then your cats will walk through it. Then your cat chases you across the kitchen tile floor and through the carpeted living area before finally getting onto your bed.

You’ll be thinking, like I was, about selling the house. But then you’ll realize that you still need to learn how to remove pet stains from the property before you put it on the market.

However, my pets are my best friends!

How to Clean Pet Stains

Poop

Step 1: This is the most unpleasant step, but it’s also the most important. I pulled out a pair of disposable gloves that I use to clean up nasty messes. However, those with stronger stomachs may prefer to use a dustpan. You’ll have to clean it after you’re done.

Step 2: Next, treat the stain. This is where I use one of the two options. Mix them in a bowl, then transfer them to a jar once the foaming has stopped.

Pet Stain Removal without Oxiclean

• 2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• 2 tablespoons hydrogen peroxide
• 1 tsp. Dawn Original dish soap

It is best to test the carpet in a small area so that it doesn’t fade.

After you have confirmed that your carpet is safe for colour, use a light touch to apply the mixture to the stain using a clean cloth. Use a scrub brush to work the stain in. Next, use a damp cloth to apply the stain to the cloth. Repeat the process until the stain disappears. Rinse the cloth. Let dry.

Step 3: The smell will not disappear even if the stain has been removed. It may not be obvious to you, but it will be evident to your dog (and likely other guests). So don’t forget about this important step.

Some commercial carpet cleaning products claim they can get rid of the smell, but I prefer the natural method. Spray it with a 50-50 mixture of warm water and vinegar and let dry. Yep, that’s it. The vinegar neutralizes the smell so that your pet doesn’t notice it.

Step 4: Allow the area to dry completely for 24 hours before vacuuming the spot. You may see the stain return at this point. This is an indication that the poop has soaked into the carpet padding.

If this is the case, you will need to continue repeating these steps until the stain has completely disappeared. You can speed up the process by using a carpet shampooer/wet vac. The machine’s suction will pull any stain from the padding.

Urine

Step 1: Use old towels, brown paper bags, or paper towels to clean up the urine. Use a shop vacuum to dry the area.

Step 2: Blotting the urine with a paper towel will usually remove any stain. The urine colour might be darker if your pet is suffering from a urinary tract infection, or is severely dehydrated.

Step 3: A 50-50 mix of water and white vinegar will again neutralize the urine smell. This will keep your pet’s new place from becoming a potty area.

Make sure you thoroughly wet the spot. This is because it will need to reach the carpet pad in order to remove any urine that has soaked into the carpet. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any remaining moisture. If not, wait until the area is dry and then sprinkle some baking soda on it. Finally, rub it in with a stiff-bristled toothbrush. Allow the baking soda to dry.

Step 4: Vacuum the entire area after it has dried completely. If necessary, use the brush to remove any baking soda clumps.

Vomit

The steps shown in the blog entry got rid of six years old cat vomit stains from my carpet. They were in my teenage daughter’s bedroom, which we don’t ever go into. It’s labour-intensive but it works!

Step 1: Scoop the vomit if it is still fresh. You can scrape as much of the vomit as possible with a spoon, putty knife or a fork if it has dried.

Step 2: Depending on the type of pet food you give and the time the stain has been present, either one of the two cleaning products listed above might work. You will need to add an additional step for stains that have set in after they dried. Use the above method to remove as much stain as you can. Then, let it dry for a full day. It’s now time to iron them!

Using An Iron To Lift Stains

1. Use water to steam your clothes. Use the LOW setting if your carpet is nylon or a mixture.
2. After opening the windows, mix 2 tablespoons of household ammonia (yes it does stink) with 1 cup of hot water. Spray it all over the area.
3. A white towel can be placed on top of the stain.
4. Use the iron to iron the towel for 20 seconds. As you work, the stain will transfer to the towel from the carpet.
5. Grab the towel and place it on a dry surface. Repeat the steps until the stain is gone.
6. Allow the area to dry completely, then sprinkle baking soda on it and vacuum well to get rid of any lingering odours.

Remember, with all stains, the quicker you treat them, the easier it is to clean them.