The Best Cleaner for Pet Urine Odor

Dogs and other animals can detect urine residue even when the stain has be removed.

Removing odor from a pet's urine stain is as important as removing the stain itself, cautions the Partnership for Animal Welfare (PAW). The urine scent attracts animals to the spot to urinate on instinct. PAW recommends a neutralizing product with safe bacteria or nontoxic enzymes that digest the residue. It suggests Oxy-Clean Simple Solution, Odor Ban or Nature's Miracle. PAW indicates home ingredients like baking soda, club soda, hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, lemon juice and cornstarch can be effective in neutralizing pet urine odor.

Function

Deodorizing neutralizers should be applied after the bulk of the stain is blotted up.

Enzyme deodorizers and solutions with safe bacteria, like Nature's Miracle, work to break down the remaining animal waste. Animal waste is high in protein. Since the enzymes and bacteria used in the deodorizing solutions are chosen because they are attracted to the protein in the waste, they will consume it on contact.

Cleaner Preparation

Flushing a urine stain with water dilutes the pet urine, making it easier to blot more up.

Experts at DoodyCalls stress preparation is key in the success of any product. Start by blotting the area with a clean, absorbent cloth to remove as much urine as possible. Flush the area with water and re-blot as much of the moisture as possible before applying the cleaner. Follow the product application instructions closely for best results.

Commercial Cleaners

Commercial cleaners can be a reliable source for removing pet urine odor and stains.

Commercial carpet cleaning companies can be successful at cleaning up urine stains and odors. However, How To Clean Things notes that commercial carpet cleaners often rely on chemical solutions that contain perchloroethylene and naphthalene -- both toxic chemicals -- to remove the stain and odor. If you select a commercial company, inquire about the products they use and non-toxic or organic alternatives they provide.

References

• How to Clean Things: How to Clean Dog Urine
• DoodyCalls: Cleaning Dog Waste and Urine
• Partnership for Animal Welfare: Cleaning Tips