How To Get Cat Pee Out Of Fabric

How To Get Cat Urine and Its Smell Out of Clothes

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You love your cat, but don’t love cat pee or its smell. Find out how to get cat pee out of clothes, once and for all.

Dealing with cat urine stains and odours on clothing and other materials is probably not the most enjoyable aspect of cat ownership, but it is unavoidable. Even if it is difficult, it is possible to remove them. Test out these professional techniques to remove cat pee out of your clothes – and to get rid of that cat pee odor, as well.

How To Get Cat Pee Out of Clothes

Never put filthy garments in the washing machine with other items of clothing. It has the potential to transmit the odor to everything else in the cargo. Alternately, you can use this approach.

Step One: Blot the cat pee

If the stain is still wet, begin blotting it as soon as possible to avoid it from setting. Do not scrape, since this will cause the stench to seep into the cloth. To remove the pee, press down on the place with a paper towel or clean white cloth, soaking it up until it is no longer wet. Try to remove as much urine from the area as possible before proceeding with the cleaning process. If the stain has dried, go to Step Two or skip directly to the steps for countering the smell of cat urine, which are listed below.

Step Two: Pretreat the cat pee

You have two choices here: pantry items or store-bought items.

Baking soda and water are combined to form a watery paste, which is applied to the stain. Allow 15 to 20 minutes of application time. According to Bruce Vance, owner of Town and Country Cleaning Services, this will neutralize the uric acid present in new cat urine stains. (Always test in a non-obtrusive place before proceeding.) The following is another paste recommendation from Melissa Maker, a cleaning expert and star of the Clean My Space program on YouTube: Table salt, white vinegar, and borax powder are all equal parts of a quarter cup. Apply the cream and allow it to settle for five to ten minutes.

Store-bought remedies are also effective. Look for a product that is designed particularly for pet smells and has enzymes that break down the odor-causing uric acid found in cat pee. Here are two that we (as well as Maker) would recommend:

Biokleen Bac-Out Stain Removeris a plant-based, environmentally friendly solution that combines live enzyme cultures without the use of artificial fragrances or dyes
Rocco and Roxie Professional Strength StainOdor Eliminatorisanother enzyme-based cleaner that is certified gentle and safe, chlorine-free, and color safe
And Biokleen Bac-Out Stain Removeris a plant-based, environmentally friendly solution that combines live enzyme cultures without the use of artificial fragrances Over 48,000 five-star reviews have been written about it on Amazon (overall rating: 4.5 stars), and it comes with an unconditional money-back guarantee. It’s also effective on dog stains

Natural, plant-based and environmentally friendly, Biokleen Bac-Out Stain Remover combines live enzyme cultures with no artificial fragrances or dyes; Rocco and Roxie Professional Strength StainOdor Eliminatoris another enzyme-based cleaner that is certified gentle and safe, chlorine free, and color safe; Biokleen Bac-Out Stain Removeris a plant-based and environmentally friendly solution that blends live enzyme cultures with no artificial fragrances or dyes.

A money-back guarantee is included, and the product has received more than 48,000 five-star ratings on Amazon (overall rating: 4.75 stars).

Step Three: Launder

Using cold water instead of hot, wash as you normally would
Hot water might set the fragrance. Alternatively, use an enzymatic washing soap such as Active Wear Laundry Detergent, which is produced in the United States and has an excellent 4.5 star rating on Amazon. You may also use your usual detergent in conjunction with one of the highly recommended enzyme boosters listed below:

Biz Laundry Detergent Powder Booster
Nature’s Miracle Laundry Booster
Biz Laundry Detergent Powder Booster

Allow for complete drying by air. Any heat, whether from the dryer or elsewhere, has the potential to permanently create lingering odor.

Nils Jacobi is a Getty Images contributor.

How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out of Clothes

Please don’t be disheartened if you discovered the stain too late, if the scent persists after one or two washes, or if the smell reappears. Uric acid has a strong stench that is difficult to mask! Follow these procedures to get rid of even the most stubborn cat urine odor.

Step One: Soak

Vance provides two excellent pantry presoaking solutions, as well as one store-bought one, for getting rid of cat urine odor from garments. Preparation: (Always test the cloth for colorfastness before use.)

Vinegar: Even though cat pee is acidic when it is excreted, it oxidizes and becomes an alkaline salt. To dissolve the alkaline ions in the cloth, Vance advises immersing it in an acid bath — also known as white vinegar or cleaning vinegar (as long as it does not have a color). Straight vinegar should be safe for most fabrics, although it can be diluted one-to-one if that is what you want. Pre-testing on rayon and acetate, which are both susceptible to acid damage
Hydrogen peroxide: Although the concentration at drug store strength is just three percent, it is safe and affordable. Place the cloth in direct sunshine to help it work more quickly. If it’s a really hot day, wrap it in transparent plastic wrap as well to keep it from drying out. Urine Rescue is an acronym that stands for Urine Rescue and Recovery. Use as a presoak on water-cleanable, colorfast fabrics to permanently neutralize odors and keep them away. Follow the instructions on the carton

Step Two: Wash

Launder in cold water with an enzymatic laundry detergent or booster, just as you did in Step Three above
Allow for complete drying by air. If you put it through the dryer, it will become contaminated with urine. Repeat as often as necessary until the odor is gone

Pro tip: Use an ultraviolet light to aid in the detection of any stains that may still be present. Urine will emit a bright light when exposed to darkness! The original publication date was August 24, 2021.

How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of Clothes

Cats peeing outside of their litter box is a regular problem that has to be addressed. Cats with litter box issues account for around 10% of the population at some time in their lives. It’s critical to get rid of cat urine odor as fully as quickly as possible once it’s been introduced. The longer cat pee is allowed to sit, the stronger the odor becomes. If the odor persists, your cat will almost certainly return to the same to pee again. In cat urine, there are various different species of bacteria, as well as uric acid.

Older cats and male cats tend to have stronger odor urine than younger cats and female cats.

Steps for Removing Cat Urine Smell From Your Clothes

Following are some procedures to do in order to get rid of the smell of cat urine. Don’t wear the same outfit twice. The smell of cat urine remains. Don’t put your items that have urine on them in the washing machine with other garments since it may cause your other clothes to smell. Regular products can only go so far in terms of effectiveness. The use of regular laundry detergent as well as other common cleaning materials such as baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide will temporarily eliminate the odor, but this is just a temporary solution.

However, because these products do not eradicate the uric acid, the odor may reappear after a short period of time.
First, attempt to blot up all of the urine on your clothing before putting anything to them.
You may use an ultraviolet light to assist you discover any stains that you can’t see since urine will glow in the dark when exposed to an ultraviolet light.
Enzymes are proteins that assist in the acceleration of chemical processes.
Pet smells and urine should be treated using products that are designed expressly for this purpose.

Some of them may be used on a variety of surfaces, including textiles, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test on a small area first, especially when working with more fragile fabrics.

Continued

Allow it to soak. The garments should be immersed in enzyme cleanser and allowed to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before being rinsed thoroughly. After that, wipe out any remaining enzyme cleaning and hang your clothing to dry naturally so that the uric acid may be thoroughly broken down. Wash in the washing machine. Preferably, use an enzyme detergent in your washing machine to remove the stains from your garments. After that, let your items to air dry. Some advocate adding one pound of baking soda to the wash cycle, while others recommend running a cycle with a cup of white vinegar and no detergent, followed by a second cycle with ordinary soap.

Getting rid of cat urine odor can be challenging, and you may need to repeat the methods several times until the stench is completely eliminated.

Things to Watch Out for

What not to do in a situation. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaning solutions since they smell like cat urine and will encourage your cat to continue peeing in that area. Problems with one’s health. When a cat pees outside of the litter box, it might be a symptom of a health condition or behavioral difficulties in the cat. Urinary tract disorders, such as kidney stones and bladder irritation, can be extremely uncomfortable for your cat and cause him to pee more frequently. Cats have a strong need to drink and pee more than usual, which can lead to kidney and liver damage.

Consult with your veterinarian to rule out any potential health issues.
Senior cats, particularly those over the age of ten, may be suffering from age-related cat dementia or cognitive impairment.
Make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any age-related issues.
It’s possible that the litter box is unclean, or that your cat doesn’t like the litter in it.
You may also try different sorts of trash to see what works best for you.
Stress.
This might be due to recent changes in the household, such as the addition of a new pet or family member.
In order to make a permanent adjustment, consider rewarding your cat with attention and goodies whenever they are exposed to the item that makes them stressed out.

How to Clean Cat Pee and Get Rid of the Smell

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Intro Text: Learn how to clean up cat pee with these instructions.

There is a strong, unique stench to cat urine, and it might be difficult to get rid of it. However, if you act promptly and use the proper cleaning chemicals, you should be able to totally eliminate the odor from most surfaces and materials within minutes.

How Do I Clean Cat Pee and Remove the Smell?

The first step is to eliminate as much pee as you possibly can from the area. Wipe up any spills on hardwood, linoleum, or tile floors using a damp cloth. You’ll need to dab the area with paper towels while applying pressure to absorb as much as possible if the stain is on textiles, carpet, or furniture. Repeat the process as many times as needed. Once the urine has been removed, scrub the sealed floor as you normally would. If the stain is on carpeting, clothing, or bedding, dab it up with a tiny quantity of cold water after flushing it out.

What Cleaners Can I Use to Get Rid of the Smell of Cat Pee?

When it comes to getting rid of the stench of cat urine, there are a few things to consider. In order to totally eliminate the stink, you may need to employ more than one – or even all – of these methods, and you will almost certainly need to repeat the process. The most important thing is to be patient.

Enzymatic Urine Cleaner

Normal fabric deodorizers will not work on the smell of cat urine, therefore most pet stores carry enzyme cleaners that are specifically designed to eliminate the smell of cat pee. These goods may be found in the pet supplies section of your local supermarket. Spray the affected area thoroughly with the spray and allow it to air dry for up to two days, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label. Repeat as many times as necessary.

Baking Soda

Normal fabric deodorizers will not work on the smell of cat urine, therefore most pet stores carry special enzyme cleaners designed specifically to eliminate the scent. In the pet supplies aisle, you’ll find these items. Spray the affected area thoroughly with the spray and allow it to air dry for up to two days, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Keep on until you’ve exhausted your options.

Vinegar and Water

When it comes to eradicating the stench of cat pee, a 1:3 ratio of vinegar to water can work wonders. Dab a small amount of the solution onto the affected area, blot it up, and repeat as required. If you’re not sure if one of these cleaners will discolor or damage your fabric, test a few drops on a hidden area first before applying them to the filthy area.

Tips for Washing Clothing, Bedding and Linens

Pretreat the stain with one or more of the cleansers listed above before washing it to remove the smell of cat pee out of garments and other objects that may be cleaned in a washing machine. After pretreating, wash on the cold setting to remove the preservative. Combine the detergent with a cup of vinegar or the necessary quantity of enzymatic urine cleanser (see the package for directions). This will provide additional cleansing power. Always air dry or tumble dry on low heat if possible. If any odor remains, repeat the process.

Tips for Cleaning Cat Pee

Because the odor of cat urine can be very strong and difficult to remove, common cleaning techniques are not always effective for eliminating cat pee odor. Keep these suggestions in mind to prevent exacerbating the problem.

Keep away from the heat. If you use hot water to clean cat urine, the stench will be established, so be careful. All impacted laundry should be washed on cold and not dried, unless you are using a no-heat cycle in the dryer. Use of a steam cleaner on carpet is not recommended, as is the use of bleach or any ammonia-based cleaning. Because bleach and ammonia have a fragrance that is similar to cat urine, your cat may be enticed to urinate in the same location again. Clothing or towels that have been exposed to cat urine should not be washed with other things. As a result, the odor may be carried over to the rest of the load of clothes. When washing textiles, avoid rubbing them vigorously. Always wipe materials rather than rubbing them, since rubbing can cause urine to seep deeper into the fibers.

Why Is It Important to Remove Cat Urine Quickly?

Try to stay away from the sun. Never use hot water to clean cat urine since it will set the stench. Unless you are utilizing a no-heat cycle in the dryer, wash all of the affected clothes on cold and avoid putting it in the dryer at all. It is not recommended to use a steam cleaner on carpet; it is also not recommended to use bleach or any ammonia-based cleaning on carpet. It is possible that your cat will be motivated to pee in the same location again if you use bleach or ammonia on it. Keep cat pee-contaminated garments and towels apart from normal laundry.

Why Did My Cat Pee Outside the Litter Box?

Stay away from the heat. Cat urine may be set by heat, so avoid using hot water to clean up after it. All impacted clothes should be washed on cold, and it should not be dried unless it is on a no-heat cycle. Don’t use a steam cleaner on carpet, and don’t use bleach or any other ammonia-based cleaners on your carpet, either. Because bleach and ammonia have a fragrance that is similar to cat urine, your cat may be enticed to urinate in the same location again. Washing garments or towels that have been exposed to cat urine with other things is not recommended.

When washing textiles, avoid rubbing them.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Clothes

Article in PDF format Article in PDF format It occurs to a large number of cat parents. Occasionally, cats will decide to claim the hamper as their domain, or they may mistakenly miss the litter box and land on your leg when you are wearing jeans. The good news is that you won’t have to throw away any of your contaminated clothing. In truth, you most likely have a variety of methods at your disposal for permanently removing the scent of cat pee from clothing. A simple pre-treatment and one or two washes should be enough to restore your garments to like-new condition in a matter of days.

1Rinse the cloth or paper towels well to remove any excess liquid. Simply blot. If you rub the stain, it may become permanently embedded in the fabric. This should be done if your cat has recently urinated on your clothes. As long as the stain is still fresh, you will have a higher chance of eradicating it in one washing than if you wait until the next day. 2 Rinse the affected area. Take the clothing that has been harmed to the sink. For a few minutes, spray a stream of cold water over the stain to remove it. 3 Remove the discoloration by blotting it dry. Pre-treat the stain with oxygen bleach to get rid of the smell. Prepare a sink by filling it halfway with warm water. Add a scoop of oxygen bleach to the mixture. In a sink, wash the clothes. If the garment is colored, allow it to rest for at least one hour before wearing it again. If it’s white, soak it for up to four hours
Otherwise, rinse it well.

Depending on the manufacturer, this product may be marketed as Oxiclean, Vanish, or just oxygen bleach. Avoid using chlorine bleach if at all possible. As a result of its interaction with ammonia in urine, it can produce toxic gases.

Oxiclean, Vanish, and just oxygen bleach are all names for this product. Use of chlorine bleach should be avoided at all costs. As a result of its reaction with ammonia in urine, it can produce toxic fumes.

Vinegar is an excellent natural deodorizer that may be used to combat any type of foul odor you may be experiencing.

2Start by preparing the wash. The clothing should be washed in the washing machine. Apply a thin layer of the vinegar solution on it. If you’d like, you may run the remainder of the clothes through the machine as well. Simply avoid washing a full load so that the stained clothing may be cleaned as thoroughly as feasible. Make use of the cool or chilly settings. Warm or hot water may cause the urine stench to become more pronounced
3if desired, add baking soda. One cup (236.6 g) of boiling water will enough. Before starting the wash, make sure the affected clothing is completely covered. The baking soda will operate in conjunction with the vinegar to neutralize and absorb the stench of urine
4 Allow the item to air dry. If you’re drying your clothes outside in the open air, it may take three hours. It might take anything from 24 to 36 hours in an indoor setting. Do a sniff test on the clothing once it has been completely dried to see whether the urine odor has been eliminated. If it is, you can put it on and go about your business as usual. Rewash it with an enzymatic detergent, if it isn’t already clean.

Never dry your garments in the dryer. The heat might permanently set in the urine stain and odor, resulting in the ruination of your garment.

1 Invest in an enzyme-based laundry detergent. Enzymes are found in the majority of detergents that are classified as cold-water detergents. However, it is recommended that you study the components just to be sure. Enzymes help detergents to attack stains at a lower temperature than regular detergents, allowing them to be more effective. If at all feasible, look for a detergent that has protease as an active enzyme component on the label. It is the most effective product for eliminating urine stains.

If you have colorful clothes, make sure you use a color-safe detergent to avoid bleaching it.

2Put the item through the washing machine. Set the washing machine to a cool or cold water cycle, depending on your preference. In accordance with the instructions on the packaging, you may add garments of a similar hue. Remove a little weight from the load in order to provide adequate room for the washing machine to fully clean the items
3 Allow the garment to air dry. Avoid using a clothes dryer since the heat may cause the urine scent to become trapped. In an outdoor situation, drying time will be significantly reduced. After the item has been allowed to dry fully, inspect it for any remaining odors. If the odor has been eliminated, you can continue to wear your clothing as normal. If this is not the case, continue the washing process one again.

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Question What is the best way to make my clothing smell good? Susan Stocker is the founder and owner of Susan’s Green Cleaning, which is the first and only green cleaning company in Seattle. The Better Business Torch Award for Ethics and Integrity was presented to her in 2017 for her exceptional customer service methods, and she is well-known in the community for her enthusiastic support of environmentally friendly cleaning practices. Expert in Green CleaningExpert in Green Cleaning AnswerYou can help wikiHow by unlocking this expert response. A scented laundry detergent can make your clothing smell better after they have been washed. I particularly dislike the smell of artificial scents, therefore I prefer to use a laundry detergent that is perfumed entirely with natural ingredients. The scent of Zum Clean’s all-natural detergent is wonderful
Question What if my clothing were sprayed and then went through the washing and dryer before I noticed it was a mistake? Is there any chance of taking the odor out of the house? SunCommunity’s Miss SunCommunity Answer Every night, soak your garments in a bath of cold water, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, 2 tablespoons baking powder, a few drops of hydrogen peroxide, and a couple of big squirts of liquid dish detergent. It will take some time, but it will be worth it. Scrub them completely, then throw them in the dryer and continue the process for at least two more weeks. The smell will subside, but they will still smell strongly of vinegar, so make careful to wash them again in a cold water bath with a scented soap thereafter
Question Is it possible to remove the smell of pee from garments with laundry ammonia? It isn’t the greatest thing to utilize in this situation. Some other laundry detergents and cleaning products would be more effective
Question But what happens if the cat keeps peeing on me all the time? You may wish to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that the cat does not suffer from any medical problems. Consider trying to re-litter box train your cat if the cat appears to be in good condition. What if it was just sitting there for a while? You might use a more vigorous wash cycle, or you could use a pet odor reduction cleanser spray or foam solution, such as Petzyme, to reduce the stench. Question My partner’s mother’s cat has a bad habit of urinating on my clothes. No matter what I do, I’m never able to keep up with the washing, which means he has to keep peeing. So, what can I do to get rid of the odor? First and foremost, keep your garments up high. Don’t leave them on the floor where the cat can get to them. Second, make certain that the cat’s litter box is well organized and that they are aware of its location. Take care to ensure that the litter box is not soiled! That should be of assistance. If you want to get rid of the scent, however, make certain that there is laundry detergent in the washing machine and that the water is set to hot. the next day in the light
Question about it What is the earliest time I may start putting my clothing in the dryer after I have completed all of the instructions to eliminate cat pee odor? It is possible that drying the garments outside (on a clothesline or draped over a metal kitchen chair) will produce the finest results. After that, you may give each of them a smell test. If you detect any odor of pee, you will have to start over. If they appear to be in good condition, wash them as normal and test them in the dryer. However, it is better to be cautious than than sorry
Air dry if you are unsure. Urine odor cannot be removed from a dryer with ease
QuestionWhen can I start putting my clothing in the dryer once I have completed all of the steps? Answer Brittany Decker is a member of the community. Answer In order to get rid of the urine smell, dry your garments once you have finished the last step.

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Choose a detergent that contains both enzymes and oxygen bleach to achieve the finest results possible. It may be used in the laundry and as a pre-soak agent.

Anything containing ammonia should be avoided. This will just intensify the odor of urine in the environment.

Things You’ll Need

Washing machine
Water
Paper towels or a cloth
Vinegar
Oxygen bleach
Enzymatic laundry detergent

About This Article

Paper towels or cloth; vinegar; oxygen bleach; enzymatic laundry detergent; a washing machine; and water.

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You have a strong attachment to your cat. However, when you go into a room and smell the distinct stench of cat urine, you may put your love to the test. What caused your cat to pee outside the litter box? What is the best way to get rid of the smell of cat urine? Here’s how to clean cat urine and eliminate the scent of cat pee from carpet, non-carpet surfaces, and beds with household products. First and foremost, there are three things you should be aware of when it comes to the reasons why your cat may be peeing outside the litter box:

In order to communicate with you about a health condition, their sentiments about changes in the house, or their dissatisfaction with their litter box, cats will frequently go outside the litter box. Another possible explanation is that Unneutered male cats spray urine to establish their territory, while unspayed female cats spray urine to alert male cats that they are in heat, according to the ASPCA. Another important reason to spay or neuter your feline companions is to avoid the development of cat urine odor. The sooner you clean up the cat urine, the sooner you will be able to get rid of the stink and help prevent your cat from urinating in that location again. You’ll need to neutralize the odor of cat urine rather of simply masking it with perfumes or aromas
You don’t enjoy the ammonia smell that may be found in cat pee, and your cat doesn’t either. If your litter box has a strong odor of urine, your cat may select an inconvenient location to relieve itself rather than the filthy litter box. If you want odor control that lasts seven days and a litter that absorbs cat pee in seconds, ARMHAMMERTMAbsorbX Lightweight Cat Litter is what you need. The proper litter and a clean litter box help to lessen the smell of cat pee in your house while also encouraging your cat to use their litter box rather than your carpet, floor, or bedding.

In the event that you have discovered cat urine in your house, here’s how to safely and effectively clean it up and get rid of the cat pee stench.

1. Cleaning Cat Urine Odor from Carpet

The stench of cat pee can be difficult to remove from carpeting because it can seep through the carpet fibers and into the carpet padding, making it difficult to remove. Furthermore, because cats have an acute sense of smell, it is critical to thoroughly clean and deodorize the area in order to prevent a return visit! For a do-it-yourself solution, try the following: Club soda should be used to thoroughly scrub the area, and it should be allowed to dry. then sprinkle with ArmhammerTM Baking Soda (optional).

For a simple solution from ARMHAMMERTM, consider the following: Try ARMHAMMERTM Pet StainOdor Remover Plus OxiCleanTM to remove even the hardest pet stains* and eliminate smells on the spot using a mix of ARMHAMMERTM deodorizers and OXICLEANTM stain fighters to get rid of even the worst pet scents.

2. Getting Rid of Cat Urine Odor from Non-Carpeted Surfaces

For non-carpeted surfaces such as ceramic tile, grout, vinyl plank, or linoleum where your cat has been urinating, follow these instructions for getting an effective, deep clean that eliminates the urine stench. For a do-it-yourself solution, try the following: No matter if the solution is handmade or purchased, cleaning non-carpet surfaces necessitates the use of an ammonia- and vinegar-free formula. It is important to note that any remedy you use to get rid of cat urine should not include chlorine bleach.

OxiCleanTM Versatile Stain Remover harnesses the cleaning power of oxygen to effectively remove stains and neutralize smells from a variety of surfaces.

It is devoid of chlorine and bleach, and it may be used to clean up cat pee.

Fill a five-gallon bucket halfway with boiling water. Utilizing the supplied scoop, carefully pour one scoop of OxiCleanTM filled to Line 1 into the bucket. Stir the solution with a long-handled spoon until all of the OxiCleanTM has been completely dissolved. Apply the solution to the floor and let it to stand for 1-5 minutes before sweeping it up. Clean the afflicted area with a mop or sponge — you may even clean the entire floor while you’re at it if you want to! The stench of cat urine shouldn’t stay in the air or on your floor for long. Empty the solution into a bucket and fill it half-full with cold water. Rinse the floor with water once you’ve finished mopping it.

3. Removing Cat Urine Odor from Bedding and Clothes

It may appear as though your cat is being spiteful, but the fact that they are spraying or peeing on your mattress, blankets, or clothing is their way of informing you that they want your attention. Don’t be upset; instead, become clean!

Place the urine-soiled items in your machine and wash them separately at the warmest temperature advised on the item’s care label until they are clean. In addition to your detergent, you should add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the bleach dispenser in your washing machine. Make use of the natural power of baking soda to help neutralize the stench of cat pee in soiled bedding and clothing by rubbing it in. Add a half-cup straight to the washing machine drum with your clothing, or use a detergent that contains baking soda to get the same result. Optional: Use ARMHAMMERTM Plus OxiCleanTM 3-in-1 Power Paks, which combine ARMHAMMERTM Baking Soda with OxiCleanTM Stain Fighters to effectively remove stains. Add a fragrance booster, such as ARMHAMMERTM Clean ScentsationsTM In-Wash Scent Booster with Odor Blasters, to the wash cycle to increase the effectiveness of the urine odor elimination

Tips to freshen things up

For best results when dealing with cat fur, dry garments for a few minutes before washing them to release the hair.

Go Big on Litter Boxes

Litter boxes should always be large enough to allow your cat to completely cover their waste with new litter before going to the bathroom.

More Cats, More Boxes

Vets advocate having numerous litter boxes for many cats – one for each cat, plus a spare litter box in case of an emergency.

ChurchDwight Co., Inc. is a trademark of ChurchDwight Co., Inc.

6 Foolproof Ways to Get Cat Pee Out of a Couch

It is possible that this content contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, I may get a commission at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I receive a commission on eligible purchases. – There’s no doubting that cats can be attractive, graceful, and downright adorable at times. In addition, there’s no doubting that all it takes is a whiff of cat urine or the unattractive sight of your feline companion marking their territory on your couch to send all of your positive thoughts straight into the litter box.

On the other hand, you are concerned about your cat’s safety.

1 – “Aye, There’s the Rub”: Blot, Don’t Scrub

Even while your initial inclination might be to rub it out, doing so is really one of the most effective ways to make the condition worse faster. Using your hands to massage or scrape a cat pee stain will only serve to drive the staining molecules further into the affected cloth, and it may even result in spreading the stain. Even worse, doing so has the potential to further disseminate the stink. Instead, you should wipe the discoloration using a clean cloth. To soak the area into the fabric, press a paper towel or rag against it and dab and wipe the place until it soaks into the fabric.

2 – Cover and Dry

After you have dabbed the area and allowed it to absorb some of the liquid, you will want to keep it covered. This is something that you don’t want potential guests to see, but you also don’t want your cat to see it. It is believed that cats urinate on furniture in part because they believe it is a way of establishing their territory. As far as they’re concerned, going anywhere other than the litter box indicates either a problem with bladder control or that they’re attempting to establish their territorial boundaries.

The more frequently your cat does this, the more probable it is that it will continue to pee in the same spot, even if you clean up the first stain completely.

It is also possible that leaving a piece of cloth over a stain can aid in the stain’s absorption and help your furniture dry more quickly.

3 – Baking Soda and Vinegar

If you have ever attempted to remove a stain in a do-it-yourself manner, there is a good possibility that you have attempted to do so using vinegar. It is by far one of the most popular and most economical alternatives for stain removal in the home, as well as one of the most effective. Fortunately, it is one of the most effective and may be used to remove cat pee stains from clothing. In this scenario, you want a 50/50 combination of white vinegar and water on the affected region; however, different stains necessitate different proportions of these two ingredients.

After you’ve done that, you’ll want to add a generous amount of baking soda to the mixture.

This should provide enough time for the stain to break down and be removed (andthe vinegar scent). It is possible that you may need to try a second round of treatment or a more powerful cleaning.

4 – Baking Soda, Dish Detergent, and Peroxide

As an example, see Baking Soda Part Two. It’s an useful little component for cleaning stains, and here is another another method of putting it to use for eliminating cat pee stains from carpets and upholstery. It is important to note that hydrogen peroxide is a step up in terms of strength from the white vinegar that was used in the previous procedure. On the one hand, this may be beneficial; nevertheless, as with any other tool, you should test it first to ensure that it is not too powerful for the material in question before using it.

Then sprinkle a pinch of baking soda over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes while you combine half a cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of detergent in a small mixing bowl.

When you clean your cat’s pee, the detergent should attack the odiferous uric acids in the urine, and the peroxide should evaporate the stains.

5 – Beware of Ammonia

While baking soda may be a fantastic stain remover, using ammonia may be a terrible idea in certain situations. It is possible that a cat will perceive its odor as being too similar to pee. If this happens, the cat may believe that the place is ready for “marking” once more, and if it believes that someone else has “marked” there, it may become competitive and territorial, perhaps marking again and being even more aggressive in doing so this time.

6 – Getting Out the Cat Urine Smell

Even if you’ve successfully eliminated the cat urine stain itself, the pungent proof may still be present despite your best efforts. Then you’ll need to take further procedures in order to completely eliminate the cat urine stench from your home. For starters, you might want to consider using enzyme cleansers. When water-based treatments aren’t quite cutting it, they are frequently employed to break down cat spots and remove the stains from clothing. The stink of cat urine that we all know and despise is caused by uric acid, and enzymatic cleansers are specifically designed to break down this acid so that it may be effectively eliminated once and for all.

Having said that, some cleaners have the potential to lighten colors or leather, so you should exercise caution while using them.
Cat urine scents may also be removed from clothes using the baking soda and peroxide procedure described above, among other things.
These vacuums may soak up stains and then suck the moisture and particles from the stain, as well as the associated odor, straight back into the unit where they came from.
Steam cleaners, on the other hand, should be avoided at all costs.

All of these suggestions may assist you in removing cat urine stains as well as any odiferous residues that may have remained, allowing you to restore your sofa and décor without disturbing your feline companion.

How To Get Cat Urine Smell Out Of Carpet, Wood and Upholstery – The Maids

When your cat urinates outside of the litter box, the stench can be difficult to get rid of and practically impossible to cover up with furniture. No matter if your cat pees on the carpet, a piece of furniture, bed sheets, or clothing, it’s critical to neutralize the odor and remove the stain from the affected area as soon as possible. It is quite likely that cats would return to an area where they have urinated if they can still smell the fragrance, therefore it is important to clean up after them as soon as possible in order to avoid them from becoming repeat offenders.

However, after that has been accomplished, it is as crucial to uncover the root cause of this behavior.
If your cat is peeing on your floors and furnishings, the cause might be anything from medical issues to unattractive litter boxes.
So, what is the best way to get rid of the smell of cat urine?
Cats who urinate in places they shouldn’t are frequently caused by an unattractive litter box, which is a common cause of this behavior.
If your cat’s litter box is in fine condition but he or she continues to use other locations as a restroom, don’t be concerned.
After learning how to get rid of cat urine odor in the house, continue reading to learn how to keep dog scents under control.

How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of a Couch

Cat urine may be difficult to remove from upholstery, and if it has seeped through to the padding, it can leave behind persistent smells, mold, and mildew that can be difficult to remove. The good news is that understanding how to get rid of cat urine odors from your couch isn’t that tough if you have the correct equipment and know-how. Using an upholstery cleaning machine to remove the smell of cat urine is your best chance for getting rid of it. This type of cleaner is equipped with scrubbing attachments that make it significantly simpler to remove stains and odors from your couch.

Make use of the carpet cleaner attachment to soak the stain in a natural cleaning solution that is intended to remove pet smells.

You should be aware that you may need to soak and vacuum the cat urine numerous times in order to completely eliminate the stain and smell.

Enzymatic cleansers are cleaning solutions that make use of enzymes to assist in the breakdown of stains and the elimination of unpleasant smells.

It’s simple to make your own enzymecleaner from scratch using natural components. In a spray bottle, combine three parts white vinegar and one part water. That’s all there is to it! Following the preparation of the combination, you will do the following steps:

Dry towels should be used to absorb as much of the cat pee as possible. Using the enzymatic cleanser, completely soak the urine stain, making sure the solution gets into every crevice. Allow the solution to settle for at least one night.

No need to rinse, however you may need to repeat the technique a couple of times to get rid of the pee odor and stains completely.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Carpet

If you have pets, you are probably familiar with the mess they can produce. Cats will use your carpet to discharge themselves, whether accidentally or deliberately, and your carpet is the best landing spot for them! When it comes to how to get rid of the cat pee smell on carpet, using a carpet cleaning machine is the most effective method. This is due to the fact that it pushes cleaning solutions deep into the carpet and sucks up all of the water, cleaner, and urine that is there. If you don’t have an upholstery cleaner, you may use the same enzyme cleaner that we recommend for sofas to clean your upholstery.

Remove any wet urine stains as soon as possible using dry towels and continue blotting with fresh towels until they are completely removed
Make sure to fully spray the urine stain with your homemade enzyme cleanser before covering it with a clean, moist towel. In order for the cleaning solution to penetrate the carpet, it may be necessary to place a heavy object on top of the cloth. Allow the enzyme solution to dry overnight. If the carpet isn’t completely dry, dab away any excess moisture using towels.

It is possible that you may have to repeat the process in order to completely remove the stain and cat urine odor. When dealing with older stains or a urine odor that has been firmly ingrained in carpets, it may be necessary to engage a professional carpet cleaning service to completely rid the stench from the carpet.

How to Get Cat Pee Out of Hardwood Floors and Wood Furniture

Trying to figure out how to get rid of the smell of cat urine on wood can be a difficult task. If the pee has been soaking into the wood for a long period of time, you will need to use a urine cleaner that has a bit more muscle. Hydrogen peroxide is a safe and effective odor and stain remover that is also environmentally friendly. But, before you get started, test a small section of the wood to ensure that the hydrogen peroxide does not harm the finish in any way. Then dab a towel soaked in hydrogen peroxide on top of the stain to keep it from drying out any more.

Place something heavy on top of it to keep everything in place and leave it to set overnight.

You might also experiment with baking soda and white vinegar.

Vinegar’s acidity helps to neutralize the stench of both fresh and dried urine stains, while baking soda provides you with some moderate abrasives to use in the cleaning process.

How to Get Rid of a Cat Pee Smell in Bedding and Clothes

Due to the fact that cats aren’t fussy about where they pee, you’ll also want to know how to get cat pee smell out of shirts, beds, and other items of clothing and linen. The cleaning procedure is as follows:

Paper towels should be used to soak up as much cat pee as possible. When cleaning pee-stained laundry, use an enzyme cleanser that is specifically developed for urine and test it on a hidden area of the affected laundry (especially if you are cleaning sensitive materials). Soak the stain in your enzyme cleanser (once it has been determined that it is safe for the fabric) for around 15 minutes to allow it to break down the uric acid. Using paper towels, dab off any excess cleanser and allow the soiled area to air dry
Separately wash your clothes with the cat urine to stop the scents from migrating to your other clothes. Cold water should be used to wash the garments or linens, along with an enzyme detergent and a pound of baking soda. Dry the clothing on a line to check that the stain and smells have been completely removed

Afterward, if the scent is still present, wash the linen again with a cup of white vinegar and allow it to air dry for another hour.

How to Get Rid Of Cat Urine Odor in The House

Even if you follow these tried-and-true methods for eliminating urine odors, the noxious stink may persist throughout your house. When you believe you’ve done everything correctly and have just replaced and cleaned the litter box, you’re surprised to find that you can still smell cat pee! If you want to get rid of the stench of cat urine in your home, you’ll need to clean the air and give your home a fresh coat of paint. You can use air fresheners and plug-ins to cover the stench, but these measures will not completely erase the smell of cat urine.

The Ultimate Guide to Eliminating Cat Pee Smell

Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM, updated and checked the information on April 7, 2020, to ensure correctness. Whenever your cat begins to urinate outside of the litter box, the odor can be tough to get rid of and much more difficult to hide completely. Whether your cat pees on the carpet, a piece of furniture, bed linens, or your clothes, it’s critical to neutralize the odor as soon as possible to avoid your cat becoming a repeat perpetrator. If the stink from a cat’s previous urination is not removed, the cat will frequently return to the same location.

Here is your comprehensive guide to eradicating cat pee odors and discovering why your cat is urinating outside of the litter box in the first place.

Clean Up Cat Urine Messes with These Products
How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from Carpet and Cushions
How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from Furniture
How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from a Mattress
Remove the smell of cat urine from linens and clothing using the following methods:

Why Cat Pee Stinks

Cat pee is not significantly different from the urine of other animals, yet what gives cat urine such a foul odor is unclear.

Cat Urine Gets Worse With Time

Cat pee that is found outside of the litter box goes overlooked until it becomes a serious health hazard. Eventually, the bacteria in urine decomposes and releases an ammonia-like stench, which is characteristic of stale, old urine and may be distinguished from fresh pee. Skunk spray emits mercaptans throughout its decomposition process, which are substances that give it its distinctive unpleasant smell. Mercaptans are released during the second stage of the breakdown process by the urine.

Older Animals Have Smellier Urine

Senior cats have kidneys that are less efficient than younger cats, and as a result, they tend to have the foulest-smelling pee on the planet.

Unaltered Males Have Hormones in Their Urine

The potent hormones that cats excrete when they urinate contribute to the foul odor. Unless male cats are neutered, their testosterone-spiked pee serves as a warning to other males to keep away and as a signal to females that they are in the vicinity.

Why Cats Urinate Outside of the Litter Box

There are a variety of reasons why a cat may begin peeing outside of the litter box without your knowledge. Even while some cat owners may believe that their cat is acting in retaliation for something, cats do not possess the advanced cognitive ability required to devise such a scheme. Doctor Laura George, DVM of Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center in Shoreline, Washington, says that contrary to common opinion, cats do not urinate outside the box to ‘get back’ at their owners for whatever. If your cat isn’t using the litter box, it’s probable that he or she is attempting to communicate something significant to you through this behavior.

Health Issues Can Cause Inappropriate Urination

Dr. Bruce Kornreich, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, associate director of the Cornell Feline Health Center, advises that the first step is to rule out a medical issue with your cat. Inappropriate urination can be associated with a variety of medical conditions, including urinary tract infections, renal illness, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and feline lower urinary tract disease. These can lead to a cat urinating outside of the litter box, particularly if the cat associates the litter box with discomfort or discomfort.

In the event you suspect your cat is suffering from any of these ailments, or if they are displaying other symptoms, you should take them to the veterinarian right once. Conditions such as urinary tract infections, if left untreated, can become life-threatening.

Arthritis Can Make Litter Boxes Hard to Use

Arthritis is another reason why an elderly cat may choose to skip using the litter box altogether. “As cats grow older, they may develop arthritis, which makes it more difficult for them to enter the litter box,” Dr. Kornreich explained. Possibly the sides are too high, or the box is in a location where the cat must engage in some type of strenuous physical activity to reach it, such as climbing up or down a flight of steps.

Behavioral Issues Could Be the Cause

After you’ve ruled out any physical causes for your cat’s behavior, you should look into whether there is a behavioral reason for them not to go in their customary area. In order to figure out why the cat’s behavior has changed, you must think like a detective and put in the effort, says Sandra DeFeo, executive director of the Humane Society of New York. In the opinion of DeFeo, one of the most prevalent reasons for cats being surrendered to animal shelters is that they do not use the litter box.

“Early intervention is critical if there is no medical condition and the problem is purely behavioral,” Dr.

“Additional litter boxes throughout the home, frequent scooping to eliminate waste, or relocating a litter box from one area of the home to another can occasionally help to alleviate behavioral concerns.

As a result, if you have two cats, you should have three litter boxes available.

Why Cats Spray

While some cats crouch and urinate on bare floors, carpets, furniture, and other horizontal surfaces, others spray urine on vertical surfaces around the home, including walls and ceilings. As DeFeo explains, “unfixed males spray to mark their territory, while unfixed females spray to signal to tomcats that they are ready.” She recommends that male cats be neutered at 6 months of age and female cats be spayed at the same time to avoid similar behaviors. Although hormones are a common cause of cat spraying, there are a variety of other causes behind it.

If your cat is spraying because of a disagreement with another cat in the house or another cat in the neighborhood, it’s critical that you try to address the situation as soon as possible.

Try using a plug-in diffuser that produces a synthetic cat pheromone that has been specifically produced to calm your cat’s nervousness.

As soon as you see signs of stress or anxiety in your cat, discuss the situation with your veterinarian and collaborate on finding a solution that will help to reduce your cat’s stress levels.

Clean Up Cat Urine Stains Before They Smell Worse

Cat pee has a foul odor when it is first deposited, but the longer it remains on the ground, the more offensive it becomes. As Dr. Kornreich explains, “the fragrance becomes more intense with time.” Additionally, once a pee stain has dried, you may no longer be able to see it, but you will still be able to smell it, as will your cat, prompting him or her to mark the same location over and over again. According to Meg Roberts, head of Molly Maid, a domestic cleaning firm, many cat owners make the same error when it comes to cleaning up cat urine: they don’t do it soon enough.

Products to Clean Cat Urine Messes

Several items, such as vinegar or baking soda, as well as enzyme cleansers, can assist to neutralize the stench of cat urine. Here are some suggestions to assist you in getting rid of the cat urine odor.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

While vinegar is a strong odor remover in and of itself, it is particularly effective in removing the lingering stench of sprayed cat pee because vinegar is an acid that neutralizes the alkaline ions that accumulate in dried urine stains. A solution made up of one part water and two parts vinegar may be used to clean the walls and floors in your home. It is said by proponents that the vinegar scent dissipates after a few days, carrying with it the stench of urine.

Enzyme-Based Cleaners

An enzyme-based cleanser may be used to eliminate odors from carpets, sofa cushions, mattresses, and bed linens, among other things. In fact, the enzymes in these products work to break down the acid in cat urine, so aiding in the elimination of the odor at the same time. Natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria aid in the elimination of the bad bacteria that is responsible for the unpleasant scents. Cleaning any surface should be done to the point that not only can you no longer smell the pee, but your cat can no longer smell it as well.

George’s opinion, “when a cat can smell a prior pee stain (either from themselves or from another cat), that place is more likely to be utilized again.”

Avoid Products That Contain Ammonia

The most essential thing to remember is to stay away from any cleaning solutions that include ammonia. Among the components of cat pee is ammonia, which, Dr. Kornreich explains, makes cats more inclined to visit the area if they can detect the odor. Additionally, ammonia and other chemical cleaners have the potential to set the stain, which is the exact reverse of what you’re attempting to achieve.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Carpet

Avoid using any cleaning products that contain ammonia, which is the most critical precaution. Among the components of cat pee is ammonia, which, Dr. Kornreich explains, makes cats more inclined to visit the area if they can detect the odor of the urine. Additionally, ammonia and other chemical cleaners have the potential to set the stain, which is the polar opposite of what you’re attempting to do with the cleansers.

1. Blot the Spot to Absorb the Urine

Locate the stain as soon as possible and blot up as much pee as you can using a clean towel as quickly as you can.

2. Rinse and Vacuum the Area

Following that, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water and vacuum up any remaining liquid using a wet/dry vacuum.

“You should avoid using a steam cleaner since the heat can solidify the stain,” Roberts explained.

3. Soak the Spot in Enzyme Cleaner

While enzyme cleansers are available in a spray bottle, simply squirting a little amount over the stain will have no effect. Instead, remove the sprayer and liberally saturate the affected area.

4. Let It Sit Before Blotting With a Clean Cloth

Allow the cleaning to sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting up as much of the excess with a clean towel as possible.

5. Prevent Your Cat From Returning to the Spot

Place a piece of aluminum foil or an aluminum baking sheet over the area to prevent your cat from returning during the cleaning procedure, or cover it with an upside-down laundry basket to block it from returning.

6. Reapply the Cleaner if Necessary

If the stain is older or extremely nasty, you may need to reapply the cleanser and allow it to dry a second time.

Removing Cat Urine Smells From the Subflooring

It is common for urine to soak through carpeting and into the subflooring, producing a stain as well as a stink that is impossible to remove with carpet cleaning and elbow grease alone. The use of an oil-based stain-blocking primer on the subfloor beneath the carpeting can help to neutralize the smell of pet odor that has persisted despite your best attempts at carpet cleaning. Replace the padding as well as the carpeting in that section.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Cushions

Here are a few simple procedures you may follow to get rid of the odor of cat urine from a cushion.

1. Soak the Area in Water

Soak the problematic region of the cushion with water for a few minutes. Using a towel, blot up as much of the cat urine as you possibly can.

2. Soak the Area With an Enzyme Cleaner

Then soak the cushion by pouring the enzyme cleanser on and around the damaged region very gently while holding the cushion upright.

3. Let It Sit Before Blotting With Towels

Set aside for 15 minutes, then squeeze out as much of the extra enzyme cleanser as you can before blotting with paper towels to remove any remaining enzyme cleaner.

4. Let the Cushion Dry

If at all possible, let the cushion outside to dry for as long as it can for the best results. Because cushions can take several days to dry, place aluminum foil on the floor before placing the cushion back in place. Then place a second layer of aluminum foil over the top of the cushion to stop your cat from urinating on it again.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of a Mattress

Mattresses require a technique that is quite similar to that of cushions.

1. Soak the Area in Water

Soak the damaged part of the mattress with water for a few minutes. Using a towel, blot up as much of the cat urine as you possibly can.

2. Soak the Area With Enzyme Cleaner

Then soak the mattress by pouring the enzyme cleanser on and around the afflicted area very gently, allowing it to soak in.

3. Let It Sit Before Blotting With Towels

Allow the enzymatic cleanser to rest for 15 minutes before blotting it up completely. Make the bed by placing several layers of clean towels over the mattress and then putting the covers on top of them.

4. Let the Mattress Dry

Replace the towels on a daily basis until the mattress is totally dried. When you’re not using the bed, cover it with a wide plastic sheet or tarp to avoid peeing on the location while the mattress is drying. You may also purchase a waterproof mattress cover to keep your mattress safe from potential spills.

5. Reapply If Needed

It may be necessary to apply numerous treatments to a mattress in order to entirely eliminate the cat pee.

How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Linens and Clothing

When it comes to linens and clothing, one crucial tip to remember is to never use bleach since, when combined with ammonia and cat pee, it can produce hazardous fumes.

1. Rinse the Spot With Cool Water

If your bed sheets and clothing are machine washable, first rinse the stain in a sink full of lukewarm water to remove any remaining residue.

2. Wash With Detergent and Baking Soda or Cider Vinegar

Place the goods in the washing machine with the detergent and either a cup of baking soda or a quarter cup of cider vinegar, depending on your preference.

3. Add Enzyme Cleaner If the Smell Persists

If you can still smell the urine after the cycle is complete, add enzyme cleanser to the load (following the directions on the box) and run the cycle again until the stench has disappeared.

4. Air-Dry After Washing

Always air-dry linens, since the heat from the dryer may cause the stench to linger even after the linens have been washed.

5. Rewash

It is possible that you may need to rewash the dish one or more times until the aroma is fully gone.

Keep Your Cat From Urinating in That Spot in the Future

You can prevent a repeat of a problem by altering the importance of a particular region in your cat’s eyes once it has been cleansed. To put it another way, because cats like to eat and eliminate in different regions, place food bowls and treats in previously soiled areas, or play with your cat in that space and leave toys in that space. Image used in this post: iStock.com/Maryviolet