How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell: A Guide
Alternatively, if we’re being courteous, we may say that we’re eradicating the stink of “inappropriate elimination.” Then, when the cat pees in your house, it’s all good fun and games. Kitty tinkling has one of the most distinct and pungent scents on the earth, maybe only equaled by the infamous durian fruit in terms of intensity. Cleansing cat pee is also not particularly obvious — in fact, it’s more like a science experiment than anything else. However, although you’d automatically use warm or hot water to clean almost everything else, using hot water to clean up cat urine would just serve to set and intensify its unpleasant scent.
General cat pee removal guidelines:
- Eek! What happened to the pee?! First and foremost, determine the source of the odor. And do it as soon as possible. As a rule of thumb, the longer cat pee remains on your mattress or couch, the stronger the odor will be.
- Using COLD water, blot the area. You’ll want to use cold water and paper towels or an old cloth to blot the region and absorb as much of the cat pee as you possibly can once you’ve discovered the cat pee location. It’s quite OK to use your extraction wet vac on the cold setting if you have one on hand. Instead of scrubbing, this will just make the cat pee angrier and more tenacious, causing it to bleed farther (and more permanently) into the sofa, the floor, or the clothing
- Neutralize the situation! Afterwards, you’ll want to douse the area with an enzymatic cleanser or just prepare your own cleaning solution by mixing equal parts (white or apple cider) vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Because vinegar is acidic, it will neutralize the germs in the cat pee, so reducing the stench of the cat urine. Allow the solution to sit for 3-5 minutes before using it, or carefully follow the directions on the cleaning product’s packaging.
- Rinse and repeat as necessary. Repeat the process with a new paper towel or damp rag, going over the soiled area only one more. Keep in mind to use cold water while you’re using a damp rag. Refresh yourself! Following thorough drying, consider usingFebreze Fabric Pet Odor Eliminator to offer an extra layer of freshness to the fabric. You may also useFebreze Air Heavy Duty Pet Odor Eliminator around the litter box area to help reduce the lingering smell of cat urine
- However, this is not recommended.
If your cat peed on the carpet, mattress, or couch:
Follow the general rules of thumb. Afterwards, sprinkle baking soda on top of the stain and allow it to settle for approximately an hour before vacuuming it away. Using this method, you may help to eliminate the stench of cat urine from your home.
If your cat peed on tile, sealed wood flooring or baseboards:
Follow the usual rules, or use a homemade solution of hydrogen peroxide and water (1:2 ratio) or direct undiluted white vinegar to the stain to get rid of it quickly.
If your cat peed on unsealed floors:
The answer to that question is a little more difficult. If your floors are not sealed, after you have cleaned up the cat pee with cold water, scrub the stain with pure vinegar before rinsing with additional cold water to remove any remaining vinegar residue. Using a cloth, blot the stain until there is no longer any trace of wetness. Enzymatic cleansers have the potential to cause harm to your unsealed flooring, so test a little amount on a hidden area first before applying it generously to the stain.
We recommend that you seal your flooring, but that’s a process for another day entirely.
If your jerk cat peed on your clothes:
It’s time to get a new kitty. So. Embarrassing. But, in all seriousness, one of the most prevalent cat-ceptions is that cats mistake laundry baskets for litter boxes. No matter how tempting it may seem, do not toss your cat pee garments into the washing machine right away. If you do this, the stink will become entrenched and your garments will be rendered useless. Consider the cat pee as if it were a disease such as smallpox: The odor is quite contagious and can be spread to other items in the same washing load, resulting in the need for a completely new wardrobe in no time.
- Remove the cat pee stain from your clothing by rinsing them with cold water and blotting them with towels, just as you would if the stain were on the floor or a piece of furniture.
- Wash your clothing in a bucket with 12 cup oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach!) and leave them there for 2-3 hours to dry.
- Add a little amount of baking soda straight to the stain and let the mixture to settle for 10-15 minutes.
- Because the heat from the dryer may still cause the stench to set in, it is best to hang garments to dry.
If this appears to be a significant amount of effort to remove a stain, you are not mistaken. We would only use this level of care and effort for your most prized possessions; otherwise, it may be necessary to go shopping for new clothes.
The future is feline
Maintaining a clean litter box will help to prevent future incidences of renegade cat peeing. Kittens despise having their litter box soiled. If your cat continues to pee outside of its box for no apparent cause (new pet, new home, change of scenery, change of kitty litter, etc. ), consider taking it to the veterinarian for a check-up and treatment options.
How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell
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. Cleaning cat urine and odors from solid floors may be accomplished with the help of the following steps:
- 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
Note: When washing sensitive materials, proceed with care. Also, keep in mind that you should never use chlorine bleach when washing objects that have been contaminated by cat urine. When you combine bleach with ammonia in cat urine, you can generate potentially hazardous fumes. No matter what the reason is for your cat peeing outside the litter box, keeping the area clean and fresh is essential to convincing them to stop – and to reclaim your house from their destructive habit. Its products, which include everything from carpet cleaners to laundry detergents to scent boosters to good old baking soda, are all designed to absorb and neutralize odors, including those caused by pet urine.
Read this resource on this irritating, though not unusual, cat habit to better understand why your cat could be peeing all over the place all of a sudden.
When used as indicated after an average pet stain has appeared, it can help to eliminate the stain.
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.
How to Get Rid of Cat Odors for Good!
Do you have the impression that your entire house smells like a litter box? In order to keep your home smelling fresh and clean, it’s important to remove cat scents from carpets and furniture. How do you go about really eradicating cat odor, rather than simply masking it with a scent? Knowing a little bit about the science behind the fragrance is essential.
Why Cat Urine Is So Potent
It is possible for cat urine to remain in carpets, textiles, and wood for several years! Although baking soda, vinegar, soap, and hydrogen peroxide can temporarily neutralize the scents, a humid day might allow the uric acid to recrystallize, resulting in the reappearance of the iconic “cat stink.” According to TheCatSite.com, the only method to get rid of the uric acid is to apply an enzyme cleaner on the carpet. It is necessary to soak the afflicted portions of the carpet or clothes in enzyme cleanser and let them to dry entirely on their own.
The enzymes break down the uric acid into gases, which then dissipate as a result of natural drying, restoring the fresh scent to your carpet and clothing. Cleaners containing enzymes may be purchased both online and at most food shops.
How to Clean It
No matter if your cat has just urinated on a surface in your home or whether you have old stains and stench, it’s critical to manage the issue with a plan of action. The following are some fundamental suggestions to help you get started:
- Immediately after discovering a leak, wipe and absorb as much pee as possible using a soiled old cloth. Wait a few hours for an enzyme cleanser to settle on the soiled area to allow it to dry on its own
- If you want to keep your cat away from the cleaner while it is being treated, place a laundry basket over the area. Make advantage of open windows and running fans to keep the airflow moving preventing scents from accumulating in your home
- Find out why your cat is having accidents and try to figure out what is causing them (urinary problem, stress, change in habit),
Cleaning the area thoroughly with vinegar first, followed by the use of an enzyme treatment, will break down and evaporate the uric acid, resulting in the elimination of cat scents from your home. Vinegar and enzyme cleansers are effective on a wide range of surfaces, including hardwood floors, carpets, and mattresses. However, keep in mind that different types of flooring and materials can react differently to different cleaners, so always test a small area before applying any solution. One important thing to know is that you should never use a steam cleaner or heat on cat urine stains or spots, according to petMDwarns.
If you have previously steam cleaned your rugs or mattresses, make careful to repeat the enzyme treatment a couple more times on them.
Preventing Cat Odors
The most effective method of preventing cat odors from invading your home is to avoid them in the first place. Maintain the cleanliness of the litter box and add baking soda to help absorb odors. If your cat appears to be suffering from urinary stress difficulties (which are causing her to have accidents) or is continuously spitting up hairballs all over the place, try gently switching her to a meal that is designed to help minimize hairballs and urine stress issues. The majority of animal odors in your house are likely related to body fluids, but it is also crucial to avoid allowing cat fur to accumulate in your home, since this can result in cat odor as well.
To remove cat hair from the surface after it has been sprayed, use rubber gloves that have been soaked with water.
As a temporary fast remedy, products like air fresheners should be avoided unless they are specifically labeled as such.
Contributor Bio
Chrissie Klinger is a model and actress. Mrs. Chrissie Klinger is a writer, an educator, and the mother of two children as well as three dogs and three cats. She appreciates leading an active and environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Oh No! Here’s How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell In Your Home For A Freshly-Scented Sanctuary
- Old cloth or paper towels, enzyme carpet cleaner, dish soap, cool water, floor cleaner (optional), baking soda, and other household items See the whole list »
- Vinaigrette (optional)
Before You Begin…
Image courtesy of istockphoto.com Cats, in contrast to dogs, do not require extensive training to become housebroken. Even with newborn kittens, using the litter box should be a natural impulse for them. If your cat refuses to use the litter box, there is almost always an issue with the litter box or the dynamics of the family. It’s possible that the box is too tiny, or that they don’t care for the litter. They may even be suffering from a urinary or bowel ailment, and because they link the litter box with discomfort when peeing or defecating, they prefer to relieve themselves elsewhere.
Cats are territorial creatures as well, and peeing in the house is a means for them to show their presence in the home. If you have numerous cats, be sure that you have enough litter boxes in your home to accommodate all of them (the general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra).
Tips for How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
- Cats are renowned for being inquisitive, and if there’s a work being performed, they’ll want to be right in the midst of things. Make sure there are no cats around to disturb the cleaning process, whether it’s by restricting them to another room for a few minutes or having someone else play with the cat while you work. While the cleaner is sitting on the stain, you can lay a basket over any section of the carpet that needs protection. Intense heat can exacerbate the smell of urine and make it remain longer, so avoid using a steam cleaner directly on the site
- And A professional cleaning service may be necessary in order to completely erase the smell of urine in older stains or in carpets, particularly if the stench is firmly buried in the fibers of the carpet.
Safety Considerations
- Cat urine contains high quantities of ammonia, which can induce respiratory distress in those who have bronchitis or asthma, or who are otherwise susceptible to respiratory distress. Make use of protective equipment such as a face mask and gloves, and be sure to properly wash your hands after cleaning up the area. Mold may be responsible for the stench that many people believe to be cat urine. Sometimes a distinct scent might suggest a mold problem, such as the presence of poisonous black mold, which necessitates the use of a professional mold treatment company.
Some tasks are best left to the professionals. Get no-obligation quotations from qualified cleaning providers in your area for free.+
STEP 1: Use an old cloth or paper towels to absorb as much urine as possible.
First and foremost, soak up the cat urine with an old cloth or paper towels as soon as possible after the accident has occurred before applying any products. This will aid in the absorption of the liquid, resulting in less remaining on the carpet or the surface. The less urine there is, the less likely it is that a thorough cleaning will be required. If there is cat urine on any of your clothing, linens, or draperies, wash them immediately or get them dry cleaned as soon as you can. Image courtesy of istockphoto.com
STEP 2: Saturate any soft areas with an enzymatic cleaner.
Are you trying to figure out how to remove cat pee out of your carpet? To remove the stain and odour from the carpet, use an enzyme cleanser or cat urine remover. If the pee is not totally digested, the smell will be completely eliminated. This is important because once a cat has urinated on a certain spot, he or she will be lured back to that same area over and over again. Cats are unable to detect the aroma of enzyme cleansers since they are unable to absorb it. Follow the directions on your specific cleanser, which may include allowing it to dry or removing any remaining foam.
STEP 3: Use dish soap and cool water or floor cleaner on any hard surfaces.
Dish soap and cold water, or a floor cleaner, can be used on hard surfaces. The first step is to wipe the cat pee away using a cloth or a paper towel. Then, using a tablespoon of dish soap and two cups of cool water (or floor cleaner), soak a cloth or paper towel in the solution and wipe it along the surface to remove any remaining soap. To finish, dab the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining moisture. Make sure to wipe cat pee off of hardwood floors as soon as possible after they have been contaminated.
Some tasks are best left to the professionals.
STEP 4: Sprinkle baking soda on the area to continue neutralizing odors.
Baking soda is a good deodorizer since it absorbs smells. After the carpet or other surfaces have absorbed the most of the cat pee, sprinkling some baking soda on them will aid in the long-term elimination of the stench. Keep in mind that you should let it sit for at least half an hour before vacuuming it up.
STEP 5: Keep your cat away from the area you’re cleaning.
Because some of the cleaning agents used might be irritating to cats, make sure there are no cats present throughout the cleaning procedure. Additionally, they may track the pee around the house, making it more difficult to eliminate the stench after it has developed. Simple solutions include locking them in a safe place or enlisting the help of another household member to keep your cat entertained.
While the carpet cleaner is sitting on top of the stain, place a basket on top of it to catch any spills. They won’t be able to lick up or get too close to the potentially hazardous components this way. Image courtesy of istockphoto.com
STEP 6: Mix vinegar or an enzyme cleaner into the laundry to remove odor from clothes and bedding.
Vinegar aids in the neutralization and elimination of cat urine odor. When washing clothes or bedding that has a strong urine odor, vinegar can be used as a substitute for enzyme cleaning (which is also an option in this situation).
STEP 7: Figure out why your cat won’t use the litter box.
If improper urination is a recurrent occurrence in the home, it may be worthwhile to investigate why the cat is not using the litter box. Find the source of the problem in order to avoid this from happening again. It is important to keep the litter box clean at least once a day and in the same area so that your cat does not become confused. In order for your cat to have adequate space to wander around, there should be enough litter boxes in the house (one for each cat plus one extra). The litter boxes should also be of sufficient size.
For both homeowners and their felines, these techniques of cleaning cat pee and getting rid of urine odor will maintain a healthy, happy, and pleasant-smelling environment in the house they share.
If the odor from prior incidents continues, contact a professional house cleaning agency that will be able to remove those difficult, set-in odors and leave your home smelling fresh and inviting.
Get no-obligation quotations from qualified cleaning providers in your area for free.+
5 Cat Urine Odor Removal Tips
Jennifer Sellers, a Petfinder writer, writes about There’s an unwelcome intruder in your household. It greets you every time you go into a room, and it even greets your guests. That strange stench isn’t the smell of your pet cat; it’s the smell of her pee. You are not, however, obligated to accept this unwelcome guest’s presence. There are a variety of approaches you may take to get rid of it. Thinkstock 1. Remove as much pee as possible from the system. In general, the less urine there is, the less deep cleaning you will have to do.
- Using an absorbent paper towel, blot up any puddles that have formed on carpet or furniture, according to the Humane Society of the United States.
- You should wash or get them dry cleaned as soon as possible if your cat has urinated on your linens, clothing, or curtains.
- Cleaning things that have a urine odor are best cleaned using detergents that contain baking soda or enzyme additions.
- 2.Use an enzymatic cleanser to break down the stain and eliminate the scent.
- Due to the fact that cats have a higher sense of smell than humans, even if you don’t notice any remaining pee, your cat will – increasing the likelihood that she may foul the area again.
- There are a variety of these goods available in pet supply and home improvement stores, respectively.
- (The effectiveness of many enzymatic cleansers can be reduced when they come into touch with other cleaning agents.) 3.Extracting wet vacs should be used instead of steam cleaners to clean the region.
- Particularly when dealing with carpets, this may be a very effective method of rinsing the surface.
- The Humane Society of the United States suggests that you use cold, clean water in your wet vac.
- In fact, intense heat can actually cause scents to become more persistently embedded in the fibers of carpet and upholstery.
- Sodium bicarbonate, the chemical compound that makes up baking soda, is extremely effective in absorbing smells.
Allow it to sit for an hour or more after you have sprinkled it, then vacuum it up. Also, HowStuffWorks.com has a recipe for carpet freshener that you may try:
- 2 tablespoons powdered cloves
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup crushed, dried herbs (rosemary, southernwood, lavender, etc.)
Sprinkle the mixture over your carpet and allow it to settle for 10-20 minutes before vacuuming it up again. It is possible to preserve any leftovers in an airtight container. 5. Investigate strategies to avoid such incidents in the future. The more pee your cat brings into your home, the more difficult it will be to keep the stench under control. As a result, the most effective method of combating this stink is to avoid it from happening in the first place. This may encompass a variety of approaches, such as:
- Getting your cat to utilize her litter box is important. Setting disposable, absorbent pads (such as puppy training pads) in an area where she is continuing to mark her territory. Making arrangements to have her spayed (or neutered, if she is a male cat)
- Taking her to the veterinarian for a checkup to discover if she has any kidney or bladder issues
- If it is discovered that she is urinating outside of her litter box as a result of fear, we will treat her for anxiety. Increase the frequency with which she cleans her litter box If there are more than one cat in the house, more litter boxes should be purchased.
Having a cat as a companion may be extremely satisfying, as can owning a home. Don’t allow the smell of pee mar any of your experiences. Additional Resources for Further Study
How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress: 6 Easy Steps
That terrible sensation you get when you realize there has been an accident on your mattress is something we all know. Whether it’s an unexpected surprise from sleeping with your dog or an accident caused by your child, you’re now picturing chemical fumes, hours of washing, and weeks of “do you smell that?” as you fight battle against the lingering aroma of that annoying urine stain on your carpet or upholstery. In other words, how can you remove urine out of a mattress and can you whiten your sheets and mattress after they’ve been soiled by anything else?
In reality, the most effective way is only six steps long and involves resources that you most likely already have in your home.
If you’re like most people, you have a cupboard full of half-empty goods that you tried unsuccessfully the previous time and hate the notion of having to go through the process all over again.
Maintain the appearance and feel of your mattress by protecting it from dirt, spills, and natural wear and tear.
How to Remove Pee from a Mattress
The next six stages outline the most effective approach for removing urine from a mattress. Regardless of whether you’re dealing with fresh pee or dried urine, you’ll want to start with the fundamentals. What you’ll need is the following:
- Baking soda, clean towels, cold water, laundry detergent, white vinegar, spray bottle, and vacuum are all good options.
Listed below are six simple methods to remove urine from a mattress: a.
Step 1: Remove Your Bedding
Take care of your mattress first, and then throw your bedding in the washing machine as soon as possible. Due to the fact that urine stains will solidify, it is critical to get your sheets and comforter into the washer very once. If you wash your bedding and discover that the urine stain or scent is still there, add a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle and repeat the process.
Step 2: Blot (Don’t Scrub!) the Area
Using a clean, dry cloth, dab the dirty area to absorb as much extra liquid as possible before continuing.
Avoid scrubbing the region since doing so can drive the liquid further into the mattress’s fabric, making it more difficult to remove completely afterwards.
Step 3: Spray Vinegar Solution on the Stain
Fill a spray container halfway with two parts cold water, one part white vinegar, and a little bit of laundry detergent. Shake well before using (a few tablespoons for a standard spray bottle; more if your bottle is larger). Spritz the stain freely – don’t be hesitant to let it sink in completely!
Step 4: Let Vinegar Solution Soak
Allow for a minimum of 10–15 minutes of sitting time on the solution-soaked mattress. Excess liquid should be soaked up with a new, clean towel before continuing.
Step 5: Cover Area with Baking Soda
baking soda over the entire dirty surface and allow it to set for 8–10 hours to remove the odor. Close the door to prevent any dogs or children from creating a mess with the baking soda!
Step 6: Vacuum Up the Dry Baking Soda
Vacuum the dried baking soda off the mattress using a hose attachment to remove it. Make certain that the powder is totally dry before using your vacuum, otherwise you may end up ruining the machine. Alternatively, a wet/dry vacuum can be used to remove any remaining moist powder. Vacuum the mattress thoroughly once you’ve finished cleaning it. Continue using steps three through six if required to completely remove any remaining smells or stains from the carpet.
How To Get Pee Stains Out of a Mattress
Although it is critical to treat new urine stains as soon as possible, there is still hope for individuals who are attempting to remove dried urine stains from a mattress. What you’ll need is the following:
- White vinegar, laundry detergent, cold water, plastic wrap, and towels are all needed.
Follow these steps to remove pee stains from your mattress with ordinary home items:
Step 1: Use Vinegar Solution to Soak Stain Completely
To cover the stain, prepare the same solution as before (two parts cold water, one part vinegar, and a little bit of laundry detergent) and apply it to the stain. Apply enough solution to ensure that the mattress is completely saturated to the depth of the original stain, but not too much.
Step 2: Cover Area in Plastic Wrap
Do not attempt to soak up any surplus liquid by blotting, rubbing, or any other means. Instead, wrap the damp area in plastic wrap and set it aside for 24-48 hours to dry. This will prevent the solution from evaporating, allowing the solution to remain active on the stain for a longer period of time.
Step 3: Allow Mattress to Air Dry
Allow the mattress to dry naturally after it has been removed from the plastic cover. It is advisable to leave it overnight or at the very least for many hours to ensure that the cloth is completely dry.
Step 4: Repeat the Process
You should not be concerned if your mattress is still stained after a single application. It is usual for severe stains to take a number of treatments before they are entirely removed.
Step 5: Spot Clean with Water
Once you’ve done cleaning and verified that you don’t need to repeat the process, thoroughly check the treated area for any dried residue from the vinegar solution that may have formed. Spot clean with water and blot dry with a towel after cleaning.
How To Get Pee Smell Out of a Mattress
While it is possible to remove urine from a mattress fairly fast, the unpleasant smell can persist for several weeks. As a result, what can be done to neutralize urine odor, and how can you remove urine odor out of a mattress? What you’ll need is the following: The fact that baking soda has a basic pH means that it can really eradicate the smell of pee rather than disguising it.
Try out this simple two-ingredient approach to neutralize the smell of urine:
Step 1: Sprinkle With Baking Soda
Rather than disguising the smell of pee, baking soda, which has a basic pH, can actually eradicate the stench of pee. This simple two-ingredient approach may be used to neutralize the odor of urine.
Step 2: Wait It Out
To allow the baking soda to do its job, you’ll need to let it at least 5–10 hours, which may mean you’ll have to spend the night on the couch with your feet up. Consider leaving the baking soda on overnight and checking it again in the morning to see how it works.
Step 3: Vacuum the Mattress
After allowing the baking soda to settle overnight, vacuum the mattress to remove any remaining baking soda. Using a handheld vacuum or an upholstery attachment will be most effective in this situation. Vaccuuming will not erase the stains, but it will remove the baking soda, as well as the stench associated with it. The technique should be repeated if there is still a scent.
How to Get Dog or Cat Pee Out of a Mattress
Pet urine can occasionally smell a bit more pungent than human pee, owing to the fact that animal urine is composed of a variety of different compounds and tends to be more concentrated. In addition, it is more critical to ensure that pet urine is totally removed because some animals like returning to already marked area for a repeat performance. What you’ll need is the following:
- Baking soda, vacuum, enzyme cleanser, white vinegar, and essential oil (optional) are all necessary.
After making a few minor adjustments to the procedure described above, the technique for cleaning pet urine from a mattress is fairly similar to the one described before.
Step 1: Apply Baking Soda Directly to Stain
Instead of wiping up extra pee with a towel, as you would typically do, add baking powder directly to the dirty area right away, instead of waiting. When exposed to moisture, baking soda will absorb it, and its color will deepen as it draws urine up and out of the mattress.
Step 2: Vacuum Powder and Repeat
Remove the dirty powder from the area and replace it with new baking soda, letting the powder to continue to absorb the urine for another 24 hours. Repeat the process until the baking soda is no longer white.
Step 3: Clean Mattress as Normal
You should clean the urine the same manner that you would if it were human urine once you’ve gotten as much of your pet’s pee out of the mattress as possible. It is possible that you may have to repeat the technique in order to entirely remove the stain.
Step 4: For Stronger Odors, Try an Enzyme Cleaner
Besides the fact that animal pee is more concentrated than human urine, it also contains additional substances such as carbohydrates and fatty acids (in the case of dogs) as well as ammonia (in dogs and cats). The use of enzyme-based cleaners, which are biological catalysts that speed up chemical processes, can aid in the breakdown of these more difficult to remove contaminants. Pet stains should be removed with an enzyme cleanser that has been particularly formulated for this purpose. Always check the label to confirm that the solution is non-toxic before using.
Step 5: Avoid Toxic or Chemical Products
Along with making sure any enzyme cleansers you discover are non-toxic, it’s critical to avoid using dangerous chemicals like as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or any normal home cleaner that has not been specially labeled as non-toxic to animals, such as ammonia.
Step 6: Avoid Accidents with Pet Repellents
You should be aware that even after you’ve thoroughly cleaned your mattress, your pet may still be able to detect residues of urine’s chemical imprint that are invisible to you. In order to avoid repeat mishaps, it’s a good idea to apply a pet-friendly repellant in areas where animals have already urinated in order to discourage them from returning. Using 1.5 cups of cold water, 2 teaspoons of white vinegar, and around 20 drops of any citrus-scented essential oil, you can construct an affordable, all-natural pet repellent for pennies on the dollar.
If you want to keep your dog from having accidents on your bed in the future, you might want to consider getting him a pup-friendlydog bed.
FAQs and Other Considerations
You should be able to remove any pee stains from your mattress if you follow these simple procedures. You may, however, have additional, more specific questions as you progress through the process. Here are some of the most frequent factors to consider while cleaning your mattress that you may want to incorporate into your approach.
How Long Does It Take for Pee to Dry on a Mattress?
Pee on a mattress may dry in as little as two to four hours, so it’s critical to address the situation as soon as possible. The amount of time it takes for liquid to dry on a mattress will be determined by the amount of liquid present and how deeply the liquid soaks into the mattress. A little spill or mishap will dry faster quickly, however a mattress will take 8-10 hours to completely dry after being thoroughly cleaned with a vinegar solution.
Can I Use This Cleaning Method on Other Stains?
In a nutshell, sure. The vinegar solution may be used to remove a range of different mattress stains, and it’s a good all-purpose cleaning solution to have on hand for any cleaning job. However, the vinegar solution approach will not work for all substances; more difficult compounds such as blood or red wine would necessitate the use of a separate solution.
How Do You Get Pee Out of a Mattress Without Vinegar?
Instead of vinegar, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can be used to effectively remove urine from a mattress if vinegar is not readily accessible. A mixture of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and liquid detergent will be needed. Make the following mixture:
- 1 part baking soda to 5 parts hydrogen peroxide
- A dab of liquid detergent
- 1 part vinegar to 1 part baking soda
The baking soda solution should be sprayed onto the stain and allowed to dry for a few minutes after being generated. Then vacuum up any residue that has remained on the surface of the ground.
What Gets Rid of the Smell of Urine?
The white vinegar solution approach is effective for both cleaning pee stains and removing residual odors from the urine. Baking soda is a natural odor neutralizer, and white vinegar is effective in breaking down many of the chemical components that give urine its strong stench. You may be tempted to use something “stronger” while cleaning your mattress, but you should never, ever use harsh chemicals such as bleach or cleansers that contain harmful compounds when you are cleaning your mattress.
Not only may this cause damage to the fabric, but the chemicals that remain in the fabric can be dangerous to your health.
What Neutralizes Urine?
In part due to the fact that urine has a high pH and is inherently acidic, the low pH of baking soda can help neutralize the odor of urine. The easiest way to neutralize urine with baking soda is to simply pour baking soda over the damaged region and allow it to rest overnight, or for a minimum of five hours.
How Do You Quickly Dry Urine Out of a Mattress?
When using a solution of vinegar or baking soda to dry urine, it is advised that you open your windows or turn on a fan to expedite the process as much as possible. Additionally, a dry towel can be used to gently dab the area, but avoid wiping the area with the towel, as this may result in the pee stain being more noticeable.
How Do You Dry A Mattress After Wetting the Bed?
To dry a mattress after someone has wet the bed, begin by blotting the affected area with a dry towel and adding a solution of vinegar or baking soda to the affected area. If you want to speed up the process, do so. However, you’ll need to give time for the mattress to air dry, which may mean sleeping in a different location for the rest of the night.
Avoid Accidents by Using a Mattress Protector
After you’ve cleaned your mattress, think about investing in a mattress protector to keep mishaps from happening again. Not only will a mattress protector offer an impermeable barrier to keep urine out of your mattress, but it will also prevent your bed from accumulating other particles such as dust, dander, hair, dead skin, and oil, and it may even assist to prevent annoying bed bugs from infesting your mattress. It may surprise you to learn that a mattress cover may also help to extend the life of your mattress.
Incorporating a waterproof covering between yourself and your bed can assist the mattress retain its “like new” appearance for a longer period of time.
A Clean Mattress Is a Healthy Mattress
It is essential to understand how to correctly remove pee from a mattress in order to keep your mattress in the finest condition possible for comfortable sleep. Not only is having a fresh, odor-free sleep environment crucial to your comfort, but learning how to remove stains from your mattress without hurting or corroding the components can help you extend the life of the mattress. Following the removal of the urine from your mattress and the completion of the drying process, you may make your bed and prepare to (at long last) catch some Zs.
How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell That Just Won’t Go Away
Photograph courtesy of New Africa/Shutterstock The fact that your cat has left you a small mess to clean up is already a major inconvenience. But what’s even worse? There’s a distinct scent of cat urine that lingers long after the accident has been cleaned up. The stink might linger if the urine was allowed to hang for a long period of time before you were able to wipe it up and sanitize the area—and the accidents can be frustratingly difficult to notice, according to Jennifer Gregory, brand manager for Molly Maid.
It’s time to schedule a consultation with your veterinarian to rule out any health issues that are stopping your kitten from using the litter box.
In the meanwhile, keep an eye out for these 13 potential indicators that your “healthy” cat is actually suffering from illness. In the meanwhile, try these tried-and-true methods for getting rid of cat urine odor from your home, as recommended by professionals.
How to get rid of cat pee smell from carpet
The secret to removing almost any stain, no matter what the substance, is to act quickly after discovering it. As Gregory explains, “if you can get as much urine out of a soiled area as possible, you’ve accomplished half of your goal.” According to Merry Maids cleaning expert Debra Johnson, the next step is to clean the area using a bacteria- or enzyme-based cleanser such as this one. The beneficial bacteria and enzymes aid in the breakdown of the stinky bacterium that is causing the odor. As a precaution, Johnson suggests pushing the cleaner into the stain with plastic wrap so that it may penetrate more deeply, then removing the plastic wrap and allowing the product to do its job.
How to get rid of cat pee smell from furniture
Cat urine can have an ammonia-like scent, thus ammonia-based cleaners should not be used on cat pee stains, according to Gregory. “If they detect the smell of urine in a certain area, they will continue to pee there,” she explains. “They will interpret this as a signal that this is the location to return to.” Vinegar, on the other hand, has the opposite effect, urging your cat to stay away. Using a vinegar solution, wet the urine stain until it is completely gone. As the vinegar evaporates, the cat pee scent will be gone as well.
How to get rid of cat pee smell from hard surfaces
Johnson recommends mixing a spoonful of dish soap into two cups of lukewarm water after blotting up any pee that may have accumulated. Wipe out the contaminated surface with the solution using a microfiber cloth, and then dry the area with a clean cloth to remove any remaining solution. Pour some baking soda on the foul location and let it for at least half an hour to eliminate the odor. “Baking soda really neutralizes scents rather than simply hiding them,” explains Johnson. Once the baking soda has had enough time to completely eliminate the scent of cat urine from the space, vacuum it up.
How to get rid of cat pee smell from clothes
Before putting a cat pee-stained item of clothing in the washing machine, make sure the stain is completely removed with cold water. According to PetMD, rewashing with a cup of baking soda or a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar—or better yet, an enzyme-based cleaner—can help eliminate the urine odor. Allow it to air dry since the heat from the dryer may exacerbate the odor if the wash cycle did not totally eliminate it during the wash cycle. Meanwhile, you should be on the lookout for these other 14 cat health indicators that you should never ignore when dealing with your cat’s peeing problem.
Don’t Give Up! The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
- This post includes affiliate links for your convenience. More information may be found here.
If you live with cats, you will eventually become an expert on the best ways to get rid of the smell of cat urine after a while. Bosco, a large orange tabby cat that grew up in a Seattle fish market where he was taught to urinate on newspapers rather than cat litter, is responsible for my knowledge and experience. After moving in with me, this became a source of contention between us. Based on his previous training, the unfortunate cat believed that everything rectangular and on the ground was fair game for him.
As a result, I discovered a few methods for getting rid of cat urine odor (while keeping Bosco).
Cat urine odor is widespread, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world for your household (or your favorite chair). A little history on why cats urinate outside of the litter box and why cat urine smells so horrendously horrible is provided in the next section.
Why Cats Pee Outside the Box
Litter box troubles may be aggravating, especially when they result in the stench of cat pee lingering in the air. When your cat pees outside of their litter box, it’s usually an indication that something is wrong with them. In accordance with the Humane Society of the United States, some of the most prevalent causes for a cat to cease using the litter box are as follows:
- The presence of an unclean litter box, disturbing noises, or a perceived threat from another cat in the household are examples of environmental influences. If a cat is refusing to use new litter or has their litter box changed, it is possible that they are experiencing separation anxiety. Some cats are averse to change, and peeing is one way they communicate this to you. Behaviour that is being marked. In order to leave their fragrance on vertical surfaces, cats spray on them, especially if they haven’t been spayed or neutered yet. Some fixed cats will also mark their territory. Marking is more prevalent if your cat is experiencing territorial difficulties with another cat or human in the house
- If your cat is suffering from a medical condition. The inability to eliminate properly might indicate that your cat is suffering from a urinary tract infection, a blockage, renal disease, or diabetes. It might also indicate that the cat has arthritis and that a litter box that was before simple to use has become difficult to use
- Stress/anxiety. It is possible that your cat will urinate outside the box (frequently on your belongings) to let you know that they are feeling worried
If you unexpectedly discover cat pee outside of the litter box, the first step is to contact your veterinarian. Problems with the urinary tract will not go away on their own. You should always rule out medical explanations for your cat’s behavior problems, even when you feel it is agitated or marking because of a behavioral issue with your cat.
Why Cat Pee Stinks
What causes cat urine to be so stinky and persistent? According to the guys at PetMD, cat pee isn’t all that unlike from the urine of other animals in terms of smell. However, it has a tendency to remain undetected for a long period of time, and when the bacteria in the urine degrade, it emits a strong ammonia-like stench. As urine decomposes, it begins to release mercaptans, which are the same components found in skunk spray, at a certain point. Yuck. Older cats, whose kidneys are less efficient at processing urine, as well as unneutered male cats, whose urine contains hormones, are more likely to have a stronger odor than younger cats.
The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
When I was cleaning up after Bosco some years ago, there weren’t a lot of decent cleaning products available, with the exception of some very fragrant items. However, enzyme-based cleansers, which break down the compounds in cat urine and neutralize the stench, have become available on the market in more recent years. Using two or three different types of cleansers is recommended if you have a serious cat pee problem in your home, according to my experience. Some are more effective on fabric than others, while others are more successful on carpets than others, and some are more effective on hard surfaces such as walls and floors.
Use UV Light to Find the Cat Pee
First and foremost, determine the precise location of the cat’s urine and how long the pee has been there before calling for help. Follow your nose and check for discolored or damp-appearing patches to begin your investigation (on hardwoods, the wood grain may be raised). If the room smells bad but you can’t figure out what’s causing it, try using a UV lamp. UV light (also known as a black light) illuminates any substance containing phosphors and is used to detect them (including cat pee). This makes it simple for you to find and cure urine stains that have developed in over time.
Once you’re in the dark, put on your UV flashlight and start looking for your missing friend.
Take into consideration when you discover an area where the cat has peed that the urine may have migrated beneath a rug or subflooring, or it may have accumulated under the foot of a couch, table, or cupboard.
In order for the liquid cleanser to be effective, you need pour just enough so that it can follow the line of the cat urine and completely eliminate its aroma.
Escolite Flashlight Ultraviolet Blacklight Detector
The Escolite is a high-powered UV light that is simple to operate and comes in a convenient flashlight size. It is powered by three standard AAA alkaline batteries (not included). The backs of my chairs and sofa have been the subject of countless late-night examinations on my hands and knees with this light (favorite spraying spots for a formerly feral cat in our household). You may find it on Amazon.
Wash Clothes, Bedding, or Towels with a Laundry Additive
If the scent of cat urine is emanating from your hamper or laundry basket—or even from your quilt—there is good news: it will wash out with time. However, regular laundry detergent will not suffice. Cat pee smell may be removed from linens by using specific cleaners, which work by neutralizing the odor and removing it completely. Try one of these, but be careful to wash it in cold water and dry it on a line (heat can cause odors to “set”). If at all feasible, let the things to air dry outside in the sunlight.
Laundry Odor Eliminator (L.O.E.) for Bedding and Clothes
To counteract the stench of cat urine, we recommend Thornell Laundry Odor Eliminatori, which is our favorite laundry addition. Pre-treatment involves saturating the cat pee stain with water and allowing it to rest for five minutes before washing. Then, along with your usual detergent, add the suggested amount of this concentrate to the washing machine and run it through it. Liquid oxygen is effective in eliminating a variety of offensive scents, even those that have resisted conventional cleaning treatments.
OdoBan Disinfectant Laundry and Air Freshener
Eucalyptus-scented OdoBan has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for its ability to effectively eliminate a wide range of pet and home scents. However, because it contains certain strong chemicals, you must exercise extreme caution and use it only as directed, keeping it away from children and pets. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Skout’s Honor Laundry Booster for Stains and Odors
In order to prevent stains and odors from spreading, Skout’s Honor is intended to be used on soiled and odorous materials before laundry. It may also be added to the laundry by using the bleach dispenser on the washing machine. Some users don’t care for the smell of Skout’s Honor, however others claim that it goes gone after a second rinse cycle or wash using the product. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Getting Rid of Cat Pee Smell on Carpets, Floors, and Upholstery
Fortunately, enzymes come to the rescue. If you come across a wet area on the floor or carpet, start by blotting up as much urine as you can using paper towels or a clean cloth to prevent further damage. After that, rinse the area well with clean, cold water. Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro, for example, is a wet/dry vacuum that can assist with this rinsing stage. Cat urine stains should never be cleaned with a steam cleaner. It is possible for scents to be trapped by the heat and steam, making them much more difficult to remove afterwards.
- Most of them employ enzymes to break down the stench of cat urine; one of them, Stink-Free, uses an oxidation method that does not require enzymes.
- After that, allow the area to air dry for up to two days if necessary.
- We’ve included numerous cleansers because it appears that one cleaner performs better than another on occasion.
- It’s a really subjective question.
- However, I have never used them on engineered wood floors that are made up of many layers, such as carpet, vinyl flooring, or older hardwood floors, and I do not recommend them for these surfaces.
Please consult with your flooring manufacturer before allowing a liquid cleaning to seep into your engineered wood flooring surface.
Nature’s Miracle Urine Destroyer Formula to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
Nature’s Miracle is one of my go-to solutions for getting rid of the stench of cat urine on floors, carpets, and other hard surfaces, and it works wonderfully (such as walls). Always remember that the priority here is to remove smells first, followed by stains second and so on. If stains are a serious problem, Nature’s Miracle Just For Cats Stain and Odor Remover Spray is a great option to consider. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Simple Solution Cat Pee Stain and Odor Remover
Cat pee smell may be removed from carpeting and furniture with the help of Simple Solution, which is another another enzymatic treatment that I recommend. It has a distinct, slightly sweet scent that you may or may not find appealing, depending on your preferences. However, one thing is certain: it completely eliminates the odor of cat urine after use. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Stink Free Deep Clean Cat Urine and Odor Remover
Stink Free is a product that I use to get rid of the stench and stains left by cat pee in my house. This oxidation mixture, which contains five powerful cleaning ingredients, performs just as effectively as enzyme cleansers while emitting a more neutral odor that dissipates rapidly after application. Make sure to read the directions carefully; there are some useful suggestions for boosting the efficiency of the product, as well as a recommendation to wipe the area with plain water a few days later to eliminate any extra substance.
Bubba’s Cleaner to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell and Stains
This is another another excellent enzymatic cleaning alternative, which is particularly suitable for upholstered furniture. Make careful to allow the enzyme solution to sink into the cat pee location and rest for a few minutes before blotting up the excess. After that, let it to dry fully. If you’re washing a sofa or chair that has detachable cushions, you should take the cushion(s) outside to dry in the sun after cleaning. Because cushions can take a long time to dry (often many days), it’s critical to keep them protected from more pee attacks while they are drying.
The feel and sound of foil are unpleasant to most cats, and they will avoid stepping on it.
A Few More Tips for Getting Rid of Cat Pee Smells and Stains
If you come across a puddle or a wet place, act quickly—even if you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner on hand—to prevent further damage. Fill a paper towel with urine and wipe it up as much as you can. Then soak the area with water and blot it up again (getting more of the urine). This PetMD tutorial includes some instructions for cleaning with baking soda and vinegar for some sorts of situations. My own experience with these products has been that they temporarily eliminate odor, but that it soon returns.
Last Resort: Use Ozone to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
What happens if your cat pees on a costly object (such as your vintage sweater, your shoes, the interior of a luggage, or a piece of artwork)? What should you do in this situation? Most of these can’t be cleaned with baking soda, vinegar, or enzyme cleansers since they’re too delicate. But don’t get too worked up over it! Remove as much pee as you can as quickly as possible by squeezing the bladder and gently wiping it with paper towels or rags until the towel comes away clear. Allow time for the item to dry.
As soon as Bosco peed on my brand new Coach briefcase, I sobbed and phoned the Coach corporation.
The dry briefcase looked fantastic, but it still smelled strongly of cat pee.
It is possible that ozone will not rescue your expensive garments and other belongings if they are soiled from head to toe in carpets, couches, or hardwood floors.
Further Reading
- Examining the many types of cat litter to find the best one for your cat—and your home
- The Insider’s Guide to the Most Effective Covered Cat Litter Box Take a deep breath, because we’ve discovered the best odor-reducing cat litter available.
viayns plt/Unsplash is the picture used for the header.