How to Clean Old Pet Stains

A black light can help you detect old pet stains.

Pets inevitably have mishaps, due to age, illness or distress, which produce stains on your carpet or upholstery. Old pet stains, or those that have set in and dried, can pose a dilemma when you discover them. Since the stain is no longer fresh, it will be more difficult to remove. A multi-step process, involving extraction, neutralizing and cleaning is your best option to effectively remove the stain and odor so your pet or other animals will not be tempted to soil the area again.

Things You'll Need

• Carpet cleaning extractor
• Plain water
• Pet odor neutralizer
• Clean white cloths
• Carpet or upholstery cleaner

Instructions

Carpet Stains

1. Flush the stained area with a carpet cleaning extractor filled with plain water. Use the machine to extract the dirty water out of the carpet, which will help clean the area, but it probably won't remove the odor. You can rent carpet cleaning extractor machines or wet vacs from home improvement or hardware stores.

2. Apply a high-quality pet odor neutralizer spray product to the carpet. Spray the amount recommended by the manufacturer directly onto the stain, which will help eliminate any odor present. Allow the carpet to fully dry. Drying time can vary. In general these type of products evaporate and take the odor with them. They require no further action after you initially apply them.

3. Inspect the area for residual odor or stain marks. If you note either, clean the area with a carpet cleaner. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Product application can vary. Powders and sprays are available. Powders require you to sprinkle the recommended amount on the stain and leave it for 5 to 15 minutes, and vacuum the residue away. Sprays require you to spray the stain and its surrounding area with enough spray to dampen the area but not saturate it. Wait 5 to 15 minutes, and blot with a clean, damp cloth. Allow to dry.

Upholstery Stains

1. Blot the area with a clean, wet towel, and blot dry with a clean, dry towel to remove any surface contaminants on the upholstery. If you have suede or leather furniture, consult with an upholstery cleaning specialist so that you don't further damage the material.

2. Spray the recommended amount of a pet odor neutralizer on cloth or fabric upholstery. In general spray enough to dampen the area but not saturate it. Avoid spraying on any material that isn't liquid safe. Allow the neutralizing spray to dry completely. Drying time will vary.

3. Inspect the area to determine if any stains are still visible. If you see any signs of staining, use a spray or foam upholstery cleaner. Spray enough liquid or foam to cover the surface of the stain. Allow it to remain on the area for 5 to 15 minutes. Blot the area with a damp cloth. Allow to dry thoroughly.Repeat this step once or twice more if the stain is not completely removed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have access to a carpet cleaning extractor, try spraying the area with plain water from a spray bottle and blotting with a clean white cloth until almost dry. You may want to repeat this action until you no longer notice that the carpet is transferring stains to the cloth.

• Test a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet or upholstery before using any neutralizers or cleaners on a widespread area to avoid possible discoloration or damage.

• Never use cleaners with ammonia to remove or clean pet stains. Pets may be attracted to the scent and re-soil the area.

References

• Humane Society: Removing Pet Stains and Odors
• Quality Dog Resources: Home Page