How to Clean Urine Stains

What You'll Need

• Enzyme cleaner
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Clean cloths

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Blot up excess urine

   Blot up as much urine as possible with paper towels or a clean cloth. The more you absorb now, the less stain remains.

2. 2

   Apply enzyme cleaner

   Enzyme cleaners specifically designed for urine break down the proteins that cause stains and odors. Saturate the area.

3. 3

   Let it sit

   Allow the enzyme cleaner to work for the time specified on the bottle (usually 15 minutes to several hours).

4. 4

   Blot and rinse

   Blot up the cleaner and rinse with cold water. Blot dry.

5. 5

   Sprinkle baking soda

   Once dry, sprinkle baking soda over the area to absorb any lingering odor. Vacuum after several hours.

Pro Tips

• TIPEnzyme cleaners are essential for pet urine -- they break down the proteins that cause odors and stains.
• TIPTreat urine stains as quickly as possible. Old urine stains develop crystalline deposits that are much harder to remove.
• TIPAvoid ammonia-based cleaners on urine -- they smell like urine and may encourage pets to mark the same spot again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XUsing ammonia-based cleaners, which encourage pets to remark the same area.
• XNot using enough cleaner -- saturate the area, especially for pet urine.
• XDrying with heat, which can set the stain and odor permanently.

Frequently Asked Questions