How to Remove Urine Stains From Wood Floors

Chances are your dog got a little scared in a thunderstorm, your child didn't make it all the way to the bathroom or you inherited a home with preexisting conditions. Whatever your circumstance, removing urine stains from a wood floor is no easy task.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine if the stain has penetrated the wood finish. If you catch urine before it has seeped below the surface, you have a much easier job on your hands. Use water and a mild disinfectant if you are dealing with a fresh stain. Read on if you have something more permanent to deal with.

2. Strip down the stained area by sanding off the wood floor finish. It is a good idea to go ahead and strip and sand the entire wood floor, but this is much more time consuming.

3. Create a stain removal solution. Mix together 1 cup of hot water and a tbsp. of oxalic acid. Make more solution if you have multiple stains, but maintain the same ratio.

4. Pour the stain solution on the wood floor. Apply the mix generously; this is not a time to "use sparingly." Leave the solution on the floor overnight (or for at least several hours).

5. Wipe away the oxalic acid mix with warm water and a sponge. Your stain should be gone or significantly reduced. Repeat Steps 2 to 5 if you are not happy with first-round results.

6. Reseal the wood floor with finish. As a preventative measure, consider upgrading to a newer finish if it's within your budget.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch your wood floor for how it reacts to new spills and fresh stains. You may have a weak finish. If this is the case, consider sanding down and refinishing your entire floor with a stronger finish.
• Wear a dust mask, protective gloves and eye goggles when doing any stripping, sanding or staining. Avoid inhaling the dust.