How to Remove Pet Stains from Wood Floors

Indoor pets and wood floors don't always mix well. If your pet has caused significant staining of your wood floors, you can usually get rid of the stains using vinegar and water, or if that doesn't work, use a commercial enzyme cleaner. As a last resort, the floors may have to sanded and refinished.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Small bowls or pails
• Scrub brush
• Clean cotton rag
• Paper towels
• Commercial enzyme cleaner

Instructions

1. Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a small bowl or pail. Fill a separate bowl or pail with warm water from the tap.

2. Dip a soft-bristled scrub brush into the vinegar and water mixture and then scrub the stain. This will remove the smell and much of the stain, and it will also discourage your pet from soiling the area again.

3. Dip a clean cotton rag into the warm water and wipe the area to remove any vinegar that has been left behind. Don't allow the vinegar to stand on the wood floors, or it could cause damage.

4. Use paper towels to blot up any liquid that remains. Don't allow water to stand on the wood floors, or you could experience water damage. Once the area is dried thoroughly, check to make sure the pet stains are gone.

5. Use a commercial cleaner containing enzymes formulated for pet stains if the stains are still present after the vinegar treatment. Apply to the stained area of your wood floors according to the manufacturer's directions.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have to use a commercial cleaner to remove pet stains from wood floors, check the label to make sure it's safe for wood floors. Some powerful cleaners can damage the finish on wood floors. If these methods still do not remove the pet stains, they may have penetrated the finish. The wood floor may have to be sanded and refinished in order to remove the stains. Contact a professional if you are uncomfortable doing this yourself.