Introduction
Having a pet can really pep up your home and your day. Our furry friends can be extremely loyal and fun to have by your side. Not many downsides, really. However, there is one thing that can temporarily stop the fun you have together by a tiny bit. This is, of course, stains and odors left behind by your beloved furry companion.
While grooming and bathing can effectively prevent pet odors from lingering within your home, sometimes you just can’t avoid this little nuisance. Fortunately, there are several solutions you can take to fix this issue. Pet odor and stain removers can be bought at your local pet shop and can help prevent pet stains and odors from making their presence known.
Cat Pee VS Dog Pee – What is the Difference?
The difference between the two is quite distinct. Anyone who owns a cat knows just how overpowering the smell of cat pee is. This is because cat urine contains significantly higher levels of ammonia than dog urine. However, this strong ammonia smell can also indicate that your cat is not drinking enough water.
On the canine’s side, their urine consists mostly of water; 95%, in fact. The remaining 5% usually contains various water-soluble materials. Dog urine and human urine are quite similar, not surprising considering human and dog urinary system features comparable characteristics.
As you can see, the smell is how you can differentiate between cat urine and dog urine. That being said, both smells can be quite difficult to eliminate from your home without the proper tools.
How to Choose the Best Carpet Cleaning Solution for Pet Stains
Choosing the best pet stain remover for carpets will require you to look at specific factors. As long as you consider the following when choosing a carpet stain remover then you are golden:
Cleaning Strength – Obviously, this is the most important factor you would need to look for. How reliable is it when cleaning different types of stains? It must be able to handle and remove grime, urine, feces, and even blood stains from the carpet.
Odor Elimination – Dog and, especially, cat urine can linger for days if you don’t apply the correct cleaning chemical on your carpet. Look for a carpet cleaning solution that can effectively neutralize any odor quickly and efficiently.
Fast Acting Cleaning Solution – Do you prefer a carpet cleaning solution that can act in less than a minute? There are cleaning solutions available that can help eliminate and remove stains in a matter of seconds while there are others that take a couple of minutes. As you might have guessed, the fast-acting ones contain powerful detergents that may cause damage on certain fabrics over time.
Contains Enzymatic Ingredients – If you want the most reliable carpet cleaning solution then choosing one that utilizes enzymatic ingredients is a safe bet. These are quite popular among pet owners as it can pretty much eliminate lingering odors on carpets completely and quickly.
Go for Mild and Unscented – If you find that the cleaning solution has a considerably powerful smell then chances are it is just masking the pet odor and not eliminating it. Personally, I always go for ones that have a mild scent as I am confident that it actually eliminates the odor and not just overpowering it.
Carpet/Fabric Safe – Of course, you must make sure that the cleaning solution will not cause any damage or deterioration on your carpet. It should also be safe to use around pets and children.
Age of the Stain, does it Matter?
It is always best if you apply the cleaning solution as soon as possible. Basically, the quicker you apply it the easier you will get the stain out. For those who have pet stains on their carpets for years, removing it will need a few extra steps.
Personally, I prefer using the vinegar, baking soda, and peroxide mixture when removing old stains on carpets.:
Step 1: Mix in equal parts of vinegar and water and use a soft cloth to apply the mixture to the stain. Press it hard against the carpet to ensure that the solution is absorbed as much as possible.
Step 2: Carefully pour the remaining mixture over the stain while avoiding the unaffected areas of the carpet.
Step 3: Use a brush and scrub the area thoroughly.
Step 4: Use a paper towel to dry the area.
Step 5: Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the stain.
Step 6: Mix ½ cup of peroxide with 1 tsp. of dishwasher soap. Mix the two thoroughly.
Step 7: Pour the solution carefully over the stain and use your brush to scrub it diligently.
Step 8: Dry the area using a paper towel once again. You can also run a vacuum cleaner on it afterward to ensure that the solution is completely removed from the fabric.
Step 9: There you go. The stain should be removed by now, it if isn’t just repeated the process again.
Best Carpet Cleaner for Old Pet Urine
Old pet urine can be a headache to remove. This is because bacteria have most likely developed over that spot and a simple cleaning solution simply won’t be enough to do the job. To help you with this problem, I will be listing 5 of the best carpet cleaning products designed to eliminate old pet stains.
Bissell Stomp ‘N Go Pet Lifting Pads + Oxy for Stain Removal on carpet & Area Rug Cleaning
Description
Easy to use and affordable. The Bissel Stomp Carpet Cleaning solution only needs to be dabbed over the stain. Leave it there for about half an hour to let it work its magic. This is a powerful oxy stain removal solution designed to also remove old stains from carpets. You don’t need to scrub or use your hands when using this solution. Just lay it down the affected area and press on it with your foot.
Pros:
- Gentle solution and safe to use around children and pets.
- Easy to use, hands-free cleaning technology.
- Fast acting cleaning solution.
Cons:
- Might take more than one pad to completely remove certain old stains on the carpet.
Rug Doctor Portable Machine for Cleaning Carpet
Description
This is a pro-enzymatic cleaning solution that continues to work on the carpet for up to 24 hours after application. This is specifically designed for use with carpets and rugs and eliminates pet stains and odors quite well. While the solution appears to be more concentrated, it is non-toxic which makes it safe to use around kids and pets. If you have pet stains on carpets and upholstery then you might want to check this product out.
Pros:
- 24-hour cleaning solution.
- Non-toxic.
- Specifically designed to remove stains and eliminate odors from carpets.
- Mild scent.
Cons:
- Not as effective in removing cat urine odor.
Genesis 950 Gallon Pet Stain Remover
Description
If you prefer a cleaning solution designed not only for carpet but also floors and other surfaces then the Genesis 950 is the first choice to try. This all-purpose cleaning solution is also quite safe and non-toxic. You can use around children and other pets as well as appliances, surfaces, and floors without worrying about leaving harmful chemicals.
Pros:
- Can be used to clean a wide variety of surfaces.
- Environment-friendly and non-toxic solution.
Cons:
- It has a strange odor.
Skout’s Honor Professional Strength Urine Destroyer
Description
Skout’s Honor is one of the more popular cleaning solutions specifically designed for eliminating pet odors. It is also powerful enough to eliminate cat urine and is non-toxic making it an environmentally friendly option for cleaning pet odor and stains. This product also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee when purchased directly from the manufacturer.
Pros:
- Fast acting cleaning solution.
- Environment-friendly solution.
- Designed to completely eliminate odors.
- Comes with a money back guarantee.
Cons:
- Not advisable to use on floors as it sometimes leaves a slippery residue.
Nature’s Miracle Pet Urine Destroyer
Description
Nature’s Miracle is another bio-enzymatic formula based cleaner. This means it will continue to be active even after you are done cleaning the affected area. It is also designed to eliminate even the most overpowering pet odors and can remove old stains as well. The formula is designed to be used in cleaning not only carpets but also floors, clothing, upholstery, etc.
Pros:
- Can effectively eliminate strong odors like cat urine on carpets.
- Multipurpose cleaning solution.
- Continues to remain active hours after application.
Cons:
- While it is multipurpose, I do not recommend using it on suede fabric.
- Scent can sometimes stick on your pet.
Best Enzymatic Cleaners for Pet Urine
Enzymatic solutions are fast acting cleaning products that are ideal in eliminating odors and stains and making sure it won’t return afterward. This type of cleaning solutions is highly recommended if you have indoor pets. Here are the best pro enzymatic cleaning solutions that you can buy today:
Rocco & Roxie Enzyme-Powered Pet Odor and Stain Remover for Cats and Dogs
Description
If you are worried that the cleaning solution might be too harsh on your carpet then you should check out this product. It is effective in eliminating stains and odors but at the same time is surprisingly gentle. It is perfectly safe around pets and children and is also quite gentle on the carpet itself. The cleaning solution is also applicable to tiles, upholstery, pet crates, and household furniture.
Pros:
- Gentle on carpets.
- Chlorine-free formula.
- Can remove all types of stains and odors.
Cons:
- Has a noticeable cinnamon mint scent that can be overwhelming for some.
Bubba’s Super Strength Commercial Enzyme Cleaner
Description
Bubba’s Super Strength Commercial Enzyme Cleaner is not only used for eliminating stains and odors on carpets, but it also acts as a good carpet shampoo. While a little pricier than most products in this list, it earns its keep by being a reliable carpet maintenance shampoo as well. It can also be used on upholstery and can deliver a clean and fresh smell in your home.
Pros:
- Effective in removing stains and odors caused by pets.
- Commercial grade formula.
Cons:
- Might take a couple more scrubs to completely eliminate powerful pet odors on the carpet.
Sunny & Honey Enzyme Cleaner for Dogs and Cat Urine
Description
I personally enjoy this pet odor cleaning product due to its environment-friendly formula and its refreshing spring mint scent. It is mild enough so that it won’t damage the carpet while also being strong enough to completely eliminate all traces of pet stain and odor. It is also formulated to work nicely on tiles and other fabrics.
Pros:
- Non-toxic.
- Refreshing scent.
- Multipurpose cleaning solution.
Cons:
- The scent might be too overpowering for some.
Nature Miracle Advanced Formula Stain and Odor Remover
Description
Nature Miracle Advanced Formula is designed for taking care pesky stains that normal cleaning solutions just can handle. It has a deep cleaning formula that targets the cause of the stain and odor. It is also fast drying which means you won’t need to wait for a couple of minutes to let children or pets enter the room. It can also eliminate the pheromones left by the dog or cat to dissuade them from urinating on the spot again.
Pros:
- Eliminates pheromone traces that discourages your pet from re-soiling the area.
- Can be used on laminated wood floors.
- The cleaning solution is already activated, no need to use warm water.
Cons:
- The scent of Nature Miracle Advanced Formula lingers for quite some time.
TriNova Natural Pet Stain and Odor Remover
Description
Looking for a cleaning solution that does not contain a trace of artificial chemicals? You might want to check what TriNova has to offer. This pet odor eliminator uses 100% natural ingredient. This completely eliminates any worries you might have of using a cleaning solution that contains chemicals. If you have children at home besides your beloved pets, TriNova might be the best all-natural cleaning solution for pet stains and odors you can get your hands on today.
Best Pet Odor Eliminator for Dogs and Cats
If you looked closely at the products listed above, you will notice how most of it is specifically designed for either cats or dogs. What about if you have both at home? What pet odor remover would be the smartest choice for you? Don’t fret, we got you covered.
NonScents Pet Odor & Stain Remover Spray
Description
NonScents Pet Odor Spray utilizes a special enzyme ingredient called zeolite. This enzyme targets the bacteria found in the feces and urine of your pet and eliminates it rather than simply covering its smell. It works at a molecular level to eliminate odors and is biodegradable and safe to use around children and pets.
Pros:
- Fragrance-free.
- Eliminates odor causing bacteria at a molecular level.
- Non-toxic and biodegradable.
Cons:
- Might cause some discoloration with certain types of fabrics.
Organic Pet Stain Odor and Remover Professional Strength Eliminator
Description
This is another all-natural pet odor eliminator that also utilizes enzymes to eliminate odor-causing bacteria left behind by your pet. It can remove odors and stains on both carpets and upholstery. It is also safe to use around children and pets. This odor remover also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the results, you can ask for a refund as long as you bought it from the manufacturer and have the receipt on hand.
Pros:
- Natural formula makes it safe and environment-friendly.
- Comes with a money back guarantee.
- Can be used on carpets and upholstery.
Cons:
- It sometimes leaves a stain on the carpet which can be scrubbed off but is something to note.
Emmy’s Best Powerful Pet Odor Remover
Description
If you love the smell of lavender then Emmy’s Pet Odor Remover will be right up your alley. Not only does it help eliminate odor and stains, but it can also prevent your pet from making a habit of re-soiling the same spot as it also targets the pheromones. This pet odor remover also comes with a money back guarantee which is always a welcome inclusion in any product.
Pros:
- Eliminates stain, odor, and pheromones to prevent re-soiling.
- Nice lavender scent.
- Moneyback guarantee.
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than its competition.
Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover
Description
Simple Solution pet odor remover uses natural enzymes combined with non-pathogenic bacteria that target the cause of odors and erases stains. It comes with a 3-in-1 sprayer which helps you control how much of the cleaning solution is applied to a certain area. The Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover are also designed to be used on various surfaces, not just on carpets.
Pros:
- Uses a 3-in-1 sprayer nozzle.
- Natural enzyme and non-pathogenic bacteria formula.
- Multipurpose cleaning solution.
Cons:
- Has a noticeable smell.
- Using it on older stains is a hit or miss affair.
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator
Description
Angry Orange comes with, you guessed it, a nice citrus scent. The citrus scent actually acts as a deterrent for your pets to re-soil the area. Angry Orange is also designed to be used on both indoors and outdoors. You will need to mix this with water as it is highly concentrated. 8 ounce of this cleaning solution is recommended to be diluted in about a gallon of water. It is also not harmful and is safe to use even with children and pets in the vicinity.
Pros:
- The citrus scent acts as both an air freshener and a deterrent for pets to re-soil the area.
- Environment-friendly and safe to use around children and pets.
- Multipurpose cleaning solution.
- Moneyback guarantee.
- Meets the FDA-GRAS standards.
Cons:
- It uses orange oil which is not advisable to be used on hardwood floors as it can damage the finish.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are dozens of options available to solve any of your pet stain and odor problems. Depending on what you need it to do, you have to pay close attention to each cleaning solution to ensure they will do the job without any hitch. Hopefully, this article has helped you figure out which pet odor cleaning solution will deliver the best results.