The Best Ways to Remove Pet Stains from Carpets and Rugs

Pet stains quickly penetrate carpet fibers, spreading beyond the surface and into the padding, where they become harder to remove over time. The biggest issue with pet urine stains on carpet is that uric acid binds to fibers, forming crystals that are nearly impossible to remove with regular cleaning. These urine salts reactivate whenever they come into contact with moisture, causing odors to resurface even after the stain appears to be gone.

Feces introduce harmful bacteria that not only stain but also create hygiene concerns, while vomit contains stomach acids that can permanently weaken carpet fibers. Many homeowners attempt DIY pet stain removal, but most methods fail because they only clean the surface, leaving trapped bacteria and moisture behind. Without deep extraction, these residues sink further into the carpet padding, allowing odors to persist and stains to reappear.

Removing pet stains at home requires the right technique. Using too much water or scrubbing aggressively can push the stain deeper, making it harder to remove. Follow these step-by-step instructions to clean your carpet safely and avoid common mistakes that worsen stains.

Step-by-Step DIY Cleaning Method

Step 1: Blot Immediately (Don’t Rub!)

• Use paper towels or a dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.
• Avoid scrubbing—this spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into carpet fibers.

Step 2: Apply a Vinegar Solution

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Vinegar helps neutralize the alkaline components in pet urine, breaking down the stain.
• Let it sit for 10 minutes before blotting with a clean cloth.

Step 3: Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odors

• While the area is still damp, sprinkle baking soda generously over the stain.
• Let it sit for several hours or overnight to soak up moisture and neutralize smells.
• Once dry, vacuum thoroughly to remove residue.

Step 4: Try Hydrogen Peroxide for Tough Stains

• Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of dish soap.
• Apply it to stubborn stains and let it sit for 10 minutes before blotting dry.

Tried everything, but the stain keeps coming back? Our professional pet stain removal service ensures deep cleaning with lasting results!

If stains keep reappearing after cleaning or your carpet still smells despite multiple DIY attempts, it's a sign that urine salts are trapped deep in the carpet padding. Home remedies, including vinegar and baking soda, only clean the surface, while moisture and bacteria remain embedded. Even a Bissell carpet cleaner can struggle to fully extract deep-set stains. Below are the signs that suggest you need professional cleaning:

• Odors return after cleaning – This means urine salts are still present and reactivating with moisture.
• Stains resurface – If a stain disappears but comes back later, it was never fully removed.
• Discoloration remains – Deep-seated pet stains can permanently damage fibers if not treated properly.
• Multiple failed DIY attempts – When home solutions stop working, professional-grade cleaning is the only solution.

In that case, Professional carpet cleaning service can be your savior. Professional carpet cleaner uses industrial-grade hot water extraction to break down stains and extract bacteria from deep within the carpet fibers and padding. Enzyme-based treatments neutralize odors at the source, ensuring they don’t return. Unlike DIY methods, high-powered suction removes all moisture, preventing mold growth and lingering smells.

Pet stains may seem manageable at first, but without deep extraction, they become a long-term problem. Urine salts trapped in carpet fibers and padding reactivate with moisture, causing recurring odors. DIY methods help with surface stains, but they fail to remove bacteria and deeply embedded contaminants. Over time, this leads to persistent odors, fiber damage, and hygiene issues. Ignoring pet stains allows bacteria to thrive, weakening carpet fibers and making discoloration permanent. To fully eliminate stains and odors, professional cleaning is the only way to break down urine salts, extract deep-set moisture, and restore freshness.

Struggling with pet stains that won’t go away? Book our expert carpet cleaning service and say goodbye to odors for good!

Will vinegar remove pet urine from carpet?
Yes, vinegar helps break down pet urine stains, but it must be followed by proper extraction to prevent odors from setting into the carpet fibers.

Does baking soda stain carpet?
No, baking soda doesn’t stain carpets, but if not vacuumed properly, it can leave a residue that attracts dirt over time.

Are pet urine stains permanent?
If not treated quickly, pet urine stains can bond with carpet fibers, making them difficult to remove without professional carpet cleaning.

How do you get stubborn pet stains out of carpet?
Use a pet urine cleaning solution with an enzymatic cleaner to break down the stain. If the stain persists, professional carpet stain removal is the best option.

How do you get dried pet urine out of carpet?
Rehydrate the stain with a vinegar and baking soda solution, blot, then use an enzyme-based pet odor removal product to neutralize the odor.

What is the best homemade carpet cleaning solution for pet stains?
A mix of vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide is effective for stain removal, but deep stains may need professional carpet cleaning.

What is the best carpet stain remover for old pet stains?
Enzyme-based cleaners work best for old pet stains, but if stains and odors persist, a professional carpet cleaner ensures complete removal.