We are an affiliate. We hope you love the products we recommend! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Thank you if you use our links, we really appreciate it!
If you have a pet, chances are, they’ve had an accident on your carpet. Not only does the smell linger, but the urine can also damage your carpet and padding. Learn how to clean dog urine from carpet. Check out the steps and tips you need to know.
Our Top Picks!
| Product | Image | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Price & Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator | 
| Enzyme-activated formula that deeply removes stains & odors | ✅ Works on old & new stains ✅ Safe for carpets, upholstery & hardwood ✅ No harsh chemicals or chlorine | ❌ Takes time for enzymes to break stains ❌ Slightly expensive ❌ Some find the scent overpowering | Check Price on Amazon |
| Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator | 
| Oxygen-infused, bio-enzymatic cleaner for pet messes | ✅ Removes odors at the molecular level ✅ Safe for pets & children ✅ Affordable & widely available | ❌ Lingering scent ❌ May need multiple applications for tough stains ❌ Some report inconsistent formula strength | Check Price on Amazon |
| Bissell Pet Stain & Odor Remover | 
| Works with Bissell machines for deep cleaning | ✅ Eco-friendly, plant-based formula ✅ Safe for multiple surfaces ✅ Pet & child-friendly | ❌ Best used with Bissell machines ❌ May not be effective on deep-set stains alone ❌ Slightly pricey | Check Price on Amazon |
| Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover | 
| Triple-strength bio-enzymatic formula for tough stains | ✅ Works on urine, vomit & feces ✅ Prevents repeat marking ✅ Easy-to-use spray bottle | ❌ Too strong for delicate fabrics ❌ Strong scent during application ❌ May need multiple applications for old stains | Check Price on Amazon |
| Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator | 
| Natural orange oil-based odor remover | ✅ Made from non-toxic orange oil ✅ Great for odor removal ✅ Pleasant citrus scent | ❌ Not the best for stain removal ❌ Scent may be too strong for some ❌ Requires separate stain remover | Check Price on Amazon |
Why Proper Cleaning Matters?
It’s not just on the top, it soaks down into the fibers and padding. It’s really hard to get it all out. If you don’t clean it up right away, it can cause other problems, like:
- Persistent Smells: The ammonia in urine is very strong smelling and can last a long time if not cleaned up correctly.
- Stains and Discoloration: If you wait too long to clean up the urine, it will dry and leave a stain that is not only unsightly, but difficult to remove.
- Bacterial Growth: The urine’s moisture can cause the growth of bacteria and mold. It can be harmful for you and your pets.
Not only does it take out the stain and the smell, but it keeps the ink in.
Understanding Dog Urine Stains
What Happens When Dog Urine Soaks Into Carpet?
The urine doesn’t just lie on top of the carpet. It seeps into the fibers and padding. The constituents of urine (water, urea, uric acid, ammonia) react differently with the carpet.
- Water: The water in the urine will spread through the carpet fibers and into the padding. This will help to loosen any dirt or debris that may have been mixed in with the urine.
- 4. Urea: Urea is broken down into ammonia and other byproducts, which can contribute to the smell of urine.
- Uric Acid: Uric acid forms crystals when it dries and is very hard to remove and leaves a nasty smell.
- Ammonia: Ammonia is a major component of urine that has a very strong and nasty smell. It also irritates the respiratory tract.
The information above should give you a good idea of what all the different parts of your carpet are and what type of cleaning would be best for your carpet.
Health Risks and Odors
Residual dog urine can lead to several health concerns and unpleasant conditions:
- Health Risks: Urine bacteria can cause infections or allergies for some people and the longer you let urine stains sit, the worse it can be, especially if you have young children or elderly family members in the house.
- Odors: The ammonia in urine is not so easy to get rid of. The longer you leave it, the stronger the smell will get and it can really start to smell in your house.
You need to clean in order to avoid these dangers and to keep your home or living place clean. We’ve discussed why you need to clean and what happens if you don’t. Now let’s discuss how to prepare for cleaning and the steps.
Top 5 Expert-Recommended Products for Cleaning Dog Urine from Carpets
1. Best for quick and easy clean-up: Bissell 2X Spot & Stain Remover. If you want something that will work quickly and easily, this is a good choice. The product does an excellent job of cleaning the stain, removing the smell and it dries to help prevent any future accidents. Pros: Works quickly, cleans the stain, eliminates the smell and dries. Cons: The product is not as long lasting as others on the list.
1. Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator
Our favorite enzyme-based formula for tough stains is Rocco & Roxie’s. Their cleaner uses natural enzymes to break down the molecules in urine so that the stain and odor are out of the carpet fibers. It works on both fresh accidents and old stains.
Why We Picked It:
The magic with Rocco & Roxie’s formula is that it is safe for pets. It works every time and never lets you down. Pet pros and homeowners love it because it gets out both the stains and the odors in the carpet.
Pros:
- Enzyme-activated formula for deep cleaning
- Safe for carpets, upholstery, and hardwood floors
- Works on old and new stains
- No harsh chemicals or chlorine
Cons:
- Stains can be more difficult because enzymes need time to break them down completely.
- Slightly more expensive compared to other options
- Some users find the scent overpowering during application
2. Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator
Do you have a pet? We do and they make a mess. So we use Nature’s Miracle. It’s not just a cleaner, it’s an oxygen infused, bio-enzymatic cleaner that breaks down urine proteins and stains. Forever.
Why We Picked It:
One of my favorite stain and odor cleaners is Nature’s Miracle. They even have a formula for pets. It’s been around forever and I swear by it.
Pros:
- Enzyme technology that destroys odors at the molecular level.
- Safe for use around pets and children
- Perfect for carpet, upholstery, and hard floors.
- Affordable and easily available
Cons:
- The downside is that it can leave a stink that some people don’t like.
- For some of the more difficult, older stains, you may need to apply multiple applications.
- Some users report inconsistency in the formula’s strength
3. Bissell Pet Stain & Odor Remover
I love this product! It works great with Bissell’s carpet cleaning machines to get a deep clean on your carpet. It works its way into the carpet fibers to get out pet stains and odors. It’s all natural and chemical free.
Why We Picked It:
Another one of Bissell’s products, this one will work with all Bissell carpet cleaners. This product cleans your carpet well, but without any harsh chemicals. Perfect for the eco-friendly family and pet owners looking for a natural cleaner.
Pros:
- Plant-based and eco-friendly formula
- Clean your carpets with a Bissell carpet cleaning machine for a deeper clean.
- Safe for pets and children
- Works on multiple surfaces, including upholstery
Cons:
- Works great with a Bissell cleaning machine.
- Not as effective on old, deeply set stains without machine help.
- A bit more expensive due to brand and machine dependency.
4. Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover
The Simple Solution Extreme formula is a triple strength bio-enzymatic formula that removes stains and odors. You can remove urine, vomit, and feces stains with it and use it on any surface. “Pro-bacteria” means you can blast away even the deepest odors.
Why We Picked It:
If you have a really tough stain, the Extreme version of Simple Solution is 3 times stronger than your average pet cleaner and is great for carpets. It’s multipurpose, which is why it’s great for pet owners.
Pros:
- Extremely strong formula for tough, set-in stains
- Safe for carpets, upholstery, and hardwood floors
- Neutralizes odors and prevents repeat marking
- Easy to use spray bottle
Cons:
- That’s a bit too harsh for delicate fabrics.
- It does have a very strong smell when applied, which some people may not like.
- Requires multiple applications for very old stains
5. Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator
Angry Orange is a very strong all natural cleaner made from orange peel oil. It’s mostly a deodorizer but because it’s so strong it will help you get rid of dog urine smell in your carpet. It’s great for spot cleaning and freshening the air.
Why We Picked It:
Angry Orange is the only pet stain remover that uses orange oil, which is amazing for the environment and smells fantastic. It’s perfect for people with stinky houses and because it’s so concentrated you can dilute it and use it more frequently.
Pros:
- Made from natural, non-toxic orange oil
- Excellent for odor removal and deodorizing carpets
- Can be diluted for long-lasting use
- Pleasant citrus scent
Cons:
- This is not a stain remover. It is an odor eliminator.
- Scent can be overwhelming for sensitive individuals
- Requires a separate stain remover for visible marks
Preparation for Cleaning
Gathering Supplies
Before we dive in, here are the tools you’ll need:
- Paper towels or cloths: 1. To absorb urine. 2. To soak up moisture.
- Vacuum Cleaner: To remove loose dirt and debris before you clean.
- Cleaning Solutions: * Vinegar and Water: A simple homemade cleaner. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Baking Soda: Neutralizes odors and absorbs moisture.
- Enzyme Cleaner: This is a cleaner that breaks down the components of urine and takes away the smell. It should say “enzymatic” on it. Choose one of the products I recommended above.
- Spray Bottle: For applying cleaning solutions.
- 4. Scrub Brush or Sponge: For scrubbing the stained area gently.
- Bucket: For mixing cleaning solutions and rinsing.
- Towels: For drying the carpet after cleaning.
Safety Precautions
When cleaning dog urine, consider the following safety tips:
- Pet-Friendly Products: The products you use should be safe for pets and children. Stay away from harsh chemicals that could be harmful or irritating.
- Ventilation: Ensure you work in a well-ventilated area so you don’t inhale the fumes.
- First, test: Before you use a cleaning solution on a stain, test it on a small, unnoticeable spot of the carpet. This way, you can make sure it won’t damage or discolor your carpet.
Fantastic! You’re all set to start! Let’s get going and start removing that dog urine stain the right way. Let’s walk through our guide to removing dog urine from carpet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Dog Urine from Carpet
If your dog pees on your carpet, you need to act fast or you’re out of luck. This post is designed to help you get the stain and the smell out of your carpet and keep it looking fresh.
1. Act Quickly
Immediate Action
If your dog peed on your carpet, don’t waste any time. The longer urine stays in your carpet, the deeper it will go into the fibers, padding and subfloor. The harder it will be to get the stains and smells out.
Blot Up Excess Urine:
- What to Use: Paper towels, microfiber cloth, or towels.
- How to Blot: Lay a few layers of paper towels or a thick cloth over the stain and press down. This will help to pull out as much liquid as possible without spreading it.
- Important Note: Don’t scrub or rub because you’ll only push the urine deeper into the carpet and make it even harder to remove. And you might damage the fibers.
Blotting Technique:
- Begin blotting from the outside and work your way in so you don’t spread the stain.
- If it’s pooled, press a clean towel on it (stand on it if you have to) to get more out. Blot until the area is as dry as possible.
2. Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution
DIY Solutions
You can make your own stain removing solution while the stain is still wet. It’s super easy and you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen (because you won’t want to use any harsh chemicals).
Vinegar and Water Solution:
- Why it Works: Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in urine and helps break down the stain and odor. It’s safe on most carpets and non-toxic for pets.
- How to Use: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and spray over the stain. Let sit for 5-10 minutes and blot. This works great for fresh stains and light odors.
Baking Soda Paste:
- Why it Works: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that helps to absorb moisture and remove odors without leaving a residue behind.
- How to Use: Mix 1/2 cup baking soda with water to make a paste. Apply to the stain and let it dry (overnight is best). Vacuum up the paste. Best for removing odors from dried urine.
Commercial Products
If the stain or smell has set in for a while, you will likely need an enzyme cleaner.
What to Look for in Enzyme Cleaners:
- Enzyme-Based Formula: These products have enzymes that break down the proteins in urine and remove odors and stains at the molecular level.
- Odor Neutralization: Make sure that the product actually eliminates odors, not just covers them up.
- Pet-Safe Ingredients: Look for non-toxic, pet-safe ingredients. Keep your pets safe from dangerous chemicals.
Examples:
- Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator: Known for deep cleaning and neutralizing odors.
- Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain & Odor Remover: Reliable for breaking down older, set-in stains.
3. Cleaning Process
Applying the Cleaning Solution
Whether you made your own carpet cleaner or purchased one, you want it to penetrate deep into the carpet fibers.
How to Apply:
- Spray or pour the solution on the stain and make sure you get it to the padding underneath the carpet where urine tends to seep through. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Scrubbing and Rinsing
Gentle Scrubbing:
- Use a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth to scrub the spot in a circular motion. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage the carpet fibers or cause fraying.
Rinsing:
- Rinse the area with cold water to remove the solution and urine. You can do this by dampening a cloth and pressing it onto the stained area, or using a little water and a wet-dry vacuum.
Pro Tip: Rinse and vacuum with a wet-dry vacuum to remove the excess water. This will allow the padding to dry out more quickly and prevent mold or mildew.
Blotting Again
Step 4: Rinse it out as much as you can to get out the water. That way, there’s no odor.
Blotting Process:
- Blot again with fresh towels or a dry cloth. Stand on the towels to help wick out any remaining liquid.
4. Deodorizing and Freshening Up
3. Now that you’ve cleaned it up, you want to make sure that the smell is gone so that your dog won’t come back to it.
Baking Soda Method
Why Use Baking Soda:
- 5. Baking soda. Baking soda will absorb and neutralize any remaining smells so the urine smell doesn’t stick to the carpet fibers.
How to Apply:
- 4. After cleaning, sprinkle baking soda over the slightly damp area and let it sit for a few hours (or overnight) for best results.
- Sweep up all the baking soda once it’s absorbed the odor.
Using Essential Oils
For Extra Freshness:
- If you have pets, you can use pet-friendly essential oils like lavender or citrus to freshen up your carpet. Just make sure the oil you use is diluted and non-toxic for your pets.
How to Use:
- Add a few drops of essential oil to your vinegar cleaning solution or sprinkle a few drops on the carpet after cleaning and vacuuming.
5. Handling Old or Set-In Stains
Old stains are more difficult to remove, and urine has also likely soaked through to the carpet and padding beneath. How to remove them:
Additional Treatments for Old Stains
Enzyme Cleaners:
- If the stain has already set in, your best bet is an enzyme cleaner. Apply it generously and let it sit on the stain for a longer period of time (at least 30 minutes, or as the product directs).
Hydrogen Peroxide & Dish Soap Solution:
- If you need a little more kick, mix 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 2 teaspoons of dish soap. It will help lift deep stains and brighten the carpet, but be careful with hydrogen peroxide, as it can bleach darker carpets.
Professional Cleaning Services
You need to bring out the big guns. Pros have extractors and cleaners that go deep down in the carpet fibers and padding.
Why Consider Professional Cleaning:
Set-In Stains: If you tried your DIY home remedy, and it didn’t work, you’ll need to bring in the big guns. Whether you need a commercial product or steam cleaning, these stains are not going to disappear on their own.
Deep Extraction: A pro-grade vacuum is the solution. It will get rid of all the bacteria and other smelly stuff that has made its home in your carpet.
Preventing Future Accidents
Training Tips
OK, so now what do you do to prevent it from happening again? Train your dog. How? Find out how.
- Consistent bathroom breaks: Ensure your dog goes out regularly and at the same times each day. Puppies and older dogs may need to go out more often.
- 2. Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise when they go to the bathroom outside. This will encourage them to repeat the behavior.
- Keep a Schedule: Keep to a feeding and bathroom schedule to get your dog into a routine. This will help to prevent accidents.
Training Tools
- Crate Training: If you have a dog that doesn’t go to the bathroom when you want them to, a crate can help. You can use a small, enclosed space for your dog to hold it until you let them out.
- Dog Training Pads: If you have a puppy or a dog with a medical issue, use pads to give them a specific spot to go.
Protective Measures
To minimize the impact of future accidents, consider the following protective measures:
- Carpet Protectors: Place waterproof carpet protectors or mats under your dog’s favorite spots. That way, if he does have an accident, it will be on the protector, not your carpet.
- Pet Training Pads: 3. Put pads where your dog is likely to have an accident. This will help you catch spills and save you time on clean up.
- Regular Carpet Cleaning: Make sure your carpets are clean and fresh so that your dog doesn’t keep going back to the same spot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overuse of Cleaning Products
Using too much cleaning product can lead to several issues:
- If you use too much cleaner, the carpet will be left with a residue that will attract dirt and create new stains.
- 3. Carpet Damage: Using too much cleaning solution can damage the fibers of your carpet or cause discoloration.
Incorrect Cleaning Methods
Avoid these common mistakes:
- 3. Scrubbing too hard: You might think that scrubbing the stain out of the carpet is the best way to get rid of it, but it can actually damage the fibers and spread the stain. Blot and gently scrub.
- 2. Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals that could harm your carpet or be dangerous to your pets. Instead, use pet-friendly cleaners.
Addressing Common Mistakes
- Don’t Overdo It: Use the right amount. Use the amount of cleaning solution recommended by the directions.
- 4. Use Safe Products: Use products made for pet stains and use them as the manufacturer recommends.
FAQs
How can I remove urine stains from a wool carpet?
Cleaning Wool Carpets
Wool carpets are delicate and require special care to avoid damage:
- Blot Immediately: If you see a urine stain, blot it with paper towels to get as much of the moisture out as possible.
- Vinegar Solution: Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 cup water. Apply to the stain with a cloth.
- Blot and Rinse: Blot the stain with a clean cloth and rinse with clean water.
- Dry Thoroughly: Dry the carpet so it doesn’t get moldy and stinky.
Additional Tips
- Do Not Scrub: You can also damage the wool fibers by scrubbing. Blot instead.
- 10. Professional Cleaning: If all else fails, try a professional carpet cleaning service that specializes in wool carpets.
What’s the best way to clean dog urine from carpet padding?
Cleaning Carpet Padding
Urine that has seeped into the padding requires extra attention:
- Lift the Carpet: Gently lift the carpet to reveal the padding underneath.
- 5. Apply Enzyme Cleaner: Spray the padding with an enzyme cleaner for pet stains. Use a generous amount.
- Blot and Rinse: Wipe the cleaner with a paper towel and rinse the area with water.
- 3. Dry the Padding: Make sure the padding is completely dry. Use fans or a dehumidifier to speed up the process.
Important Considerations
- 3. Check for Odors: After you clean, check for any odors that still linger. If so, clean again.
- Replace Padding: If it is soiled or damaged, replace it to completely get rid of odors and to prevent future issues.
Can I use bleach to clean dog urine from carpet?
Avoiding Bleach
Bleach is too harsh for carpets and can cause several issues:
- Bleach can discolor and weaken carpet fibers.
- Toxic Fumes: Bleach fumes are harmful to both pets and humans.
Alternative Solutions
- Enzyme Cleaners: An enzymatic cleaner will break down the urine and get rid of the smell without damaging the carpet.
- Homemade Solutions: I like to use white vinegar and water or a paste of baking soda for a safe and easy clean.
How often should I deep clean my carpet if I have a dog?
Routine Deep Cleaning
Regular deep cleaning helps manage odors and maintain carpet condition:
- Every 6-12 Months: It’s nice to do a deep clean of your carpet every 6-12 months. This will remove dirt, allergens and odors.
- 3. More Frequent Cleaning: If your dog has accidents or sheds a lot, clean every 3-6 months.
Additional Cleaning Tips
- Spot Clean: 1. Deep clean your carpets regularly and clean any new stains as they occur. A good rule of thumb is to clean your carpets once a year, but you can also spot clean stains as they happen to prevent them from setting.
- Professional Services: If you can’t remove the stain or odor, it’s time to hire a professional carpet cleaner.
What if my dog continues to have accidents on the same spot?
Addressing Recurring Accidents
If your dog repeatedly urinates in the same spot, consider these strategies:
- 1. Thorough Cleaning: Be sure to clean the area thoroughly to remove any remaining smell. If your dog can still smell the spot, it may cause him to mark the area again.
- 3. Use a Pet Repellent: Spray a pet-safe repellent on the area to discourage your dog from returning. You can find these at pet stores or online.
- Training and Behavior Modification: Make sure you’re rewarding the behavior you want with training and rewards. If you need help, hire a professional trainer.
How can I ensure my carpet stays odor-free between cleanings?
Maintaining Freshness
To keep your carpet smelling fresh and clean:
- Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your carpet often to remove dirt, pet hair, and other debris. This will keep your home clean and help prevent odors.
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on your carpet between cleanings. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes and then vacuum to help deodorize.
- 2. Ventilation: Keep your home well-ventilated to reduce humidity and mold. Mold smells bad.
Can I use a carpet cleaner machine for dog urine stains?
Using Carpet Cleaners
Carpet cleaner machines can be effective for removing pet stains:
- Choose the right cleaner: You need a pet stain attachment or a pet-specific cleaner.
- 2. Follow the instructions: Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for both the machine and the cleaning solution.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After you’ve cleaned the carpet with the cleaner, make sure you rinse the area with water to ensure you’ve removed all of the solution.
Professional Carpet Cleaning
If it’s a really tough stain, you might have to call in the big guns. A professional carpet cleaner can clean your carpet and apply treatments to make it look like new again.
Hi, I’m Ali Tarek, co-founder of Animalsman. I’ve always been passionate about pets, especially dogs and cats, and I created this website to share practical tips, easy recipes, and helpful care advice for fellow pet lovers. My goal is to make pet care simple, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone. When I’m not writing or curating content, you’ll usually find me spending time with my furry friends or learning new ways to keep them happy and healthy.
