- Quality pet stain removers will remove stains from carpeting or upholstery and completely neutralize, as opposed to mask, odors. Odor removal is vital to completely cleaning and removing a pet stain, as pets can smell traces of the stain and be encouraged to eliminate in the area again. By removing all perceptible traces of the stain, your pet will not be encouraged to continue eliminating in the same area, especially if the stain was from your pet marking his territory.
- There are several types of chemical-based and homemade pet stain removers. Some chemical-based cleaners are highly concentrated and intended for use in a steam cleaner. The most commonly used types of removers are liquid spot treatments. Finally, some chemical cleaners come in the form of a foam that lifts the stain into a dry substance ready for vacuuming. Common homemade cleaners are usually less effective and include vinegar and liquid detergents.
- The most effective pet stain removers use enzymes to neutralize and remove the stain and odor. Pet waste contains proteins that can remain in the fabric of carpeting and upholstery if not treated properly. Improper homemade cleaners, such as vinegar, some chemical cleaners, and steam cleaning can permanently bond these proteins into the carpet or upholstery. Enzymatic cleaners will prevent these proteins from bonding into your carpet or upholstery, allowing for complete removal of the stain and odor.
- Once a pet stain is completely removed and its odor neutralized, pet owners should reinforce pets to eliminate in designated areas, such as a litter box or outdoors, and discourage territorial marking behaviors. Placing the paper towels or other disposable materials that were used in soaking up the mess into these designated areas will encourage pets to eliminate there. Also, relocating your pet's sleeping quarters to the room in which you have removed stains, restricting his accessibility to other areas, and following a strict schedule for waste elimination will also decrease the likelihood of indoor accidents. Consult your veterinarian for other tips on housebreaking your pet and to rule out illness as the cause.
- Some chemical-based pet stain removers can stain and damage certain types of carpeting and upholstery, especially if not used properly. Carefully read the directions on the label of chemical-based pet stain removers to determine if they are safe to use, particularly on colorfast fabrics.
