For aspiring fur parents, learning how to get rid of pet odor in house is a must. Pets bring joy and companionship but they can also leave behind unwanted odors—whether it is because of dander or the “wet dog” smell, pet odors can linger.
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to remove these odors naturally and safely. Although you can also opt for a professional pet odor removal service to get rid of pet odor.
Clean My Carpet loves to help fur parents like you.
In this blog post, our professional carpet cleaners share a few, tried-and-true methods to eliminate pet smells. From keeping the carpet clean to the proper ways to handle pet beddings and fabric.
Let’s start.
Keep the Carpet Clean
If you have carpets in home, keep in mind that carpets are the top magnets for pet odors. They absorb urine, for example. Dander, shed hair, saliva, and the natural oils from pets—all these stick and seep into carpets as well.
These substances decompose and turn into unpleasant smells. Thus, regular cleaning is crucial to address the source of odor.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is a preventative measure to keep unpleasant pet odors away. In case of accidents, blot up as much as possible using paper towels. Then, use a pet-specific solution to clean the area.
Pet cleaning solutions are effective cleaning agents because they contain enzymes that break down the organic components of pet urine and other messes, which often is the source of smell.
Although regular household cleaners are cheaper, they often just mask the odor. A pet cleaning solution with enzyme cleaners, however, actually eliminates it.
Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning is a must and should be done every 3-6 months, or more if needed.
Deep cleaning reaches down into the carpet fibers and padding, removing embedded odors that spot cleaning can’t reach. Consider the frequency based on your pet’s shedding, activity level, and any accidents.
It is highly recommended to use a pet-safe carpet cleaning solution.
Freshen Up Pet Bedding & Fabrics
Just like carpets, pet bedding, blankets, and even furniture such as the cough where your pet likes to hang out absorbs a lot of smells. Thus, regular washing is essential.
But how should you do it?
- Washing Frequency. Pet beddings should be washed at least once a week, or more often if it’s heavily soiled or used. The same goes for blankets or fabric toys your pet uses regularly.
- Washing Instructions. Follow the washing instructions on the item’s label. Use a pet-safe laundry detergent, and consider adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to help neutralize odors.
Make sure items are completely dry before allowing your pet to use them again, as damp fabric can hold onto smells.
Use Natural Odor Absorbers
Unlike air fresheners, natural odor absorbers don’t just mask smells; they work to neutralize or trap odor-causing molecules. There are several natural odor absorbers available today.
Here are a few our pet odor removal professionals highly-recommend:
- Baking Soda. Baking soda is a great all-around deodorizer. You may want to sprinkle it on carpets, pet beds, and furniture, let it sit for about 30 minutes (or even overnight for stronger odors), and then vacuum it up.
It absorbs and neutralizes acidic odors. - Activated Charcoal. Activated charcoal has a large surface area, making it very effective at trapping odor molecules. You can find activated charcoal bags or filters designed for odor absorption. Place them in areas where pet odors are strongest.
- Coffee Grounds. Dried coffee grounds can also absorb odors. Place a bowl of coffee grounds in a room to help neutralize smells. Be careful, though, as they can stain.
Call in a Professional Carpet Cleaner
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, pet odors still linger. This often happens because the odor has seeped deeply into the fibers of your carpets, rugs, and furniture.
In such cases, calling in a professional carpet cleaner is the best solution.
Professional carpet cleaners have access to specialized cleaning solutions and equipment.They understand the different types of carpet fibers and know which cleaning methods are most effective for each.
Here’s why they can make such a difference:
Powerful Extraction
Professional carpet cleaners use truck-mounted machines with much stronger suction than home units. This allows them to remove deeply-seated pet hair, dander, urine, and other odor-causing substances that have seeped deep into carpets and padding, reaching areas a home machine can’t.
Specialized Cleaning Solutions
Professionals use specialized enzyme-based cleaners that break down odor-causing molecules, unlike typical carpet shampoos that just mask smells. They can also tailor solutions to specific stains and odors for more effective treatment.
Experience and Expertise
Trained professionals can identify the odor source and determine the best cleaning method for your specific carpet type and situation. They understand how to handle various fabrics and stains for a safe and thorough clean.
Tackling the Padding
Pet urine often soaks into the carpet padding, requiring specialized techniques. Professionals have tools and experience to address this, sometimes even recommending padding replacement for severe cases.
Improve Air Circulation
Stale, stagnant air traps odors. Good air circulation helps to remove this odor-filled air and replace it with fresh air.
- Open Windows. Whenever possible, open windows to let fresh air circulate. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.
- Use Fans. Use fans to circulate air within your home. Ceiling fans, box fans, or even the exhaust fan in your bathroom can help to move air and remove odors.
- Ventilation. Ensure proper ventilation in your home, especially in areas where pet odors tend to linger. Check that vents are not blocked and that air is flowing freely. A good ventilation system helps to remove stale air and bring in fresh air, preventing odors from building up.
Don’t Let Pet Odor Lingers in your House
Living with pets doesn’t mean you have to live with unpleasant odors. There are plenty of natural and professional ways now to get rid of it without breaking your bank.
Keep your home fresh and clean now with Clean My Carpet.
Clean My Carpet has been in the industry for 15 years now. We invest in the latest cleaning equipment and ensure that we provide the most effective cleaning solution.
For inquiries, contact us today at (720) 203 3509 or send us a message here.