Pet urine is one of the hardest-to-remove stains and among the most noticeable household smells. Most home remedies and even some store-bought cleaners don’t have the necessary ingredients to eliminate the smell of urine, which may lead you to think your home will be stuck with this scent forever.
Fortunately, there is a solution: enzymatic cleaners.
What is an Enzymatic Cleaner, and How Does it Eliminate Pet Stains?
Enzymes can break down or build up organic matter. While many types of enzymes exist, the most prevalent in pet odor removers is called protease. Proteases break down protein-based stains, including pet urine, vomit, blood, and feces. Rather than simply masking the pet pee smell, these enzymes feast on the bacteria, eliminating it at the source.
How to Use an Enzymatic Cleaner on Pet Urine and Feces Across the Home
Household enzymatic cleaners are not only effective but also safe to use. They can treat a myriad of surfaces, including carpets, mattresses, pet beds, and even hard floors. They work on most water-safe materials, excluding delicates like silk and velvet.
It’s wise to follow the instructions on the bottle of enzymatic cleaner you’re using for tailored advice. But in general, to use one of these products, you’ll first clean up your pet’s mess. Then, spray the area with the cleaner, ensuring it’s well-saturated. For furniture or upholstered items, place a towel over the cleaner and place a heavy object on top to help wick away some of the moisture. You’ll then wait a specified period to wipe away excess product or wait until the area completely dries.
Our Enzymatic Cleaner Recommendations
One of the best multi-surface cleaners is Rocco & Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator. The enzymes in this cleaner activate as soon as they detect protein-based stains. It works on hard floors, litter boxes, carpets, furniture, clothing, kennels, and all sleeping areas. It’s a little expensive, but its efficacy makes it worth the price.
To remove pet urine smells from clothing, dog beds, blankets, and other laundry items, we like Nature’s Miracle Enzymatic Laundry Boost. It contains the enzymes necessary to break down the toughest pet stains and works in all types of washing machines.