Top Tips for Removing Pet Smells from Your Home

Pet smells can seem hard to handle, but others have this problem too. It is important to keep your home smelling nice, as this helps you feel good and stay healthy. Pet dander, hair, urine, and feces can make the air worse, contributing to allergies or asthma. You should have easy pet odor removal solutions to tackle these issues effectively. At Petcantalk, we always strive to help pet owners with real problems.

Key Takeaways

• Clean up fast if your pet has an accident. Dab the spot with a towel. Use an enzymatic cleaner on the area. Sprinkle baking soda to help remove smells.

• Clean your pet’s bedding and favorite places often. This stops smells from getting worse. Wash bedding every week. Vacuum these spots a lot.

• Try natural things like baking soda and vinegar to remove smells. These are safe and work well to keep your home smelling nice.

Causes of Pet Odors

Common Sources

You might notice pet smells in your home, but do you know where they come from? Pets can leave behind many types of odors. Here are some of the most common sources:

• Urine and feces: These can contain aromatic amines. Scientists found these chemicals in over 38% of pet urine samples. They can even pose health risks to people.

• Pet food: The smell of your pet’s food can affect how you feel. Some foods give off pleasant scents like 'roasted chicken' or 'aromatic herbs.' Others might smell 'fatty – rancid' or 'cereal like,' which can make you feel less happy.

• Dander and hair: Tiny flakes of skin and loose fur can trap smells and spread them around your home.

• Saliva: When your pet licks things, their saliva can leave behind a scent.

Tip: Regular cleaning of your pet’s favorite spots can help keep these smells under control.

Why Odors Persist

You may wonder why pet odors stick around even after you clean. The answer often comes down to what is left behind.

• Pets bring bacteria into your home. These bacteria can raise indoor endotoxin levels.

• Organic waste, like hair and dander, builds up over time. This waste gives bacteria a place to grow.

• Biological contaminants, such as molds, mildew, and saliva, can hide in carpets, furniture, and even the air.

If you do not clean these areas well, the smells can linger. Keeping your home fresh means tackling both the source and the hidden spots where odors like to stay.

Immediate Cleanup Steps

Quick Actions

When your pet has an accident, you need to act fast. The sooner you clean, the easier it is to stop stains and smells from setting in. Here’s what you should do:

1. Move quickly. Grab some paper towels or a clean cloth right away.

2. Pick up solids. If there’s any solid waste, remove it first.

3. Blot, don’t scrub. Gently blot up any liquid. Start from the outside of the stain and work your way in. This keeps the mess from spreading.

4. Use an enzymatic cleaner. These cleaners break down the proteins in pet messes and help get rid of odors for good. Avoid ammonia-based products, since they can make the smell worse.

5. Sprinkle baking soda. After cleaning, sprinkle a little baking soda on the spot. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. Baking soda helps soak up any leftover smells.

Tip: Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first to make sure it won’t damage your carpet or floor.

What to Avoid

Some cleaning habits can make pet odors worse or even damage your home. Here are common mistakes you should avoid:

1. Waiting too long. If you wait, stains and smells can sink deeper and become harder to remove.

2. Using harsh chemicals. Acidic or strong chemical cleaners can leave behind harmful residues. They might even attract your pet back to the same spot.

3. Soaking the area. Too much water can lead to mold and make drying difficult.

4. Stopping when the stain looks gone. Odors can hide below the surface, so clean thoroughly.

5. Relying on deodorizing powders. These often just cover up smells instead of removing them.

Note: Quick, careful cleaning keeps your home fresh and safe for both you and your pets.

Pet Odor Removal Solutions

Pet odor removal solutions help your home smell better. You do not need to put up with bad smells. There are easy and safe ways to keep your house fresh. Let’s see some of the best ways to fight pet odors. You can use natural things or trusted store products.

Natural Methods

You may want to try natural pet odor removal solutions first. These choices are easy to get and safe for most homes. Here are some good options:

• Baking Soda: Put baking soda on carpets, rugs, or pet beds. Wait a few hours, then vacuum it up. Baking soda soaks up and removes odors. This makes your home smell nice.

• Vinegar: Mix the same amount of white or apple cider vinegar with water. Use this mix to wipe hard floors or add it to laundry. Vinegar breaks down what causes bad smells. It leaves things smelling fresh.

• First Saturday Lime: This powder works well outside and in pet areas. It stops acidic smells and soaks up wetness. This helps stop odors before they spread.

• Enzymatic Cleaners: These cleaners use good bacteria to break down messes. They work great on urine, feces, and vomit. You can use them on carpets, floors, and pet beds.

Tip: Always test a new cleaner on a small spot first. This helps you make sure it will not hurt your things.

Vacuuming often is also important. Pet hair and dander can hold onto smells. Vacuuming a lot keeps your home smelling better. If you want to use hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners, be careful. High amounts can bother your skin, eyes, and lungs. Pets can be bothered by chemical leftovers, so follow the label and keep the room aired out.

Commercial Products

Sometimes you need stronger pet odor removal solutions. Many store products work fast and are safe for pets and families. Here are some top picks:

• Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Oxy Stain Remover: This spray uses enzymes to clean stains and smells. It has no scent and is safe for kids and pets.

• Bubba's Rowdy Friends Pet Stain & Odor Terminator: This cleaner works on many things and removes tough smells. People like it because it works well and costs less.

• Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator Spray: This spray swaps bad smells for a fresh orange scent. You can use it on carpets, furniture, and pet spots.

• Skout's Honor Litter Box Deodorizer: This spray uses minerals to remove litter box smells. It does not leave anything behind.

• Kids 'N' Pets Instant All-Purpose Stain & Odor Remover: This spray is non-toxic and works on all water-safe things. It helps stop pets from marking the same spot again.

When you pick pet odor removal solutions, check that they are safe for pets and your home. Stay away from harsh chemicals or strong smells. Pets, especially small ones, can be bothered by chemical leftovers.

You can also stop odors by keeping messes small. Smart feeders, like Petcantalk’s Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder, help keep your pet’s eating area clean. Here is how this feeder helps:

Using the right pet odor removal solutions and smart products helps your home stay clean and fresh. You can feel sure your home is safe for you and your pets.

Carpets and Rugs

Spot Cleaning

Pet accidents on carpets happen fast. You need to act quickly to stop stains and smells from setting in. Here’s what you can do:

• Blot the stain with a clean white towel. Try to soak up as much liquid as you can.

• Spray a carpet spot remover, like Stanley Steemer Spot Remover, right on the stain. Let it sit for about 2–4 minutes.

• Blot again, working from the outside of the stain toward the center. This keeps the mess from spreading.

• Rinse the area with clean water. Blot dry with a fresh towel.

• For tough odors, use a product like Stanley Steemer Odor Out Plus. Apply it to the dry area and cover with a damp cloth for 24 hours.

Tip: Always use a neutral pH cleaner that is safe for carpets. You can also try a portable carpet cleaner, like the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe, for quick cleanups.

Deep Cleaning

Sometimes, spot cleaning is not enough. Deep cleaning helps remove old stains and stubborn smells. Professionals often use hot water extraction. This method pushes hot water and cleaning solution deep into the carpet fibers. It breaks down the stuff that causes odors and stains.

Enzymatic cleaners work well for deep cleaning too. These cleaners use enzymes to eat away at the organic mess left by pets. They do not just cover up smells—they get rid of them.

Odor neutralizers can also help. These products change or absorb the chemicals that make bad smells. Your carpet ends up smelling fresh, not just perfumed.

If you have pets, deep cleaning your carpets every few months keeps your home feeling clean and welcoming.

Furniture and Upholstery

Safe Cleaning

Your furniture and upholstery can trap pet smells deep in the fabric. You want to keep these areas clean without damaging them or leaving behind harsh chemicals. Start by vacuuming sofas, chairs, and cushions often. This removes hair and dander that hold onto odors.

When you spot a stain or smell, act fast. Blot the area with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the mess deeper. For most pet stains, enzymatic cleaners work best.

"The absolute best tip when dealing with pet stains on any surface is to get an enzymatic cleaner. This really targets the source of the problem, not just the surface." – Elizabeth Shields, Operations Manager of Super Cleaning

You have a few safe options for cleaning:

• Enzymatic Cleaners: These use natural enzymes to break down stains and odors. They are safe for most fabrics.

• Oxidizing Cleaners: These release oxygen to lift out organic stains like pet urine.

• Natural Alternatives: Vinegar and baking soda can help neutralize smells.

Some trusted brands include:

• Nature's Miracle

• Rocco & Roxie

• Puracy

You can also try Stanley Steemer’s Spot Remover or “Odor Out!” for tough spots.

DIY vs. Store-Bought

You might wonder if you should make your own cleaner or buy one from the store. Both have pros and cons.

• Store-bought cleaners often work better on tough stains and strong odors. They use special formulas that target pet messes.

• DIY methods, like vinegar and baking soda, let you control what goes into your cleaner. These are safer for pets but may need more effort and testing.

• DIY solutions can work well for light odors, but store-bought products usually handle stubborn smells better.

• Many store-bought cleaners, such as Standard Cleaner, use advanced technology and work on many surfaces.

Choose what fits your needs and comfort level. Always test a small spot first to protect your furniture.

Other Problem Areas

Litter Boxes

Litter boxes can quickly become the smelliest spot in your home if you don’t keep up with them. You might not realize it, but odors can spread to nearby rugs, curtains, and even furniture. Many pet owners forget to clean the area around the box, which lets smells linger.

Here’s a simple routine to keep your litter box fresh:

1. Scoop the clumps every day. Use a scoop to remove waste and add a sprinkle of baking soda to help with odors.

2. Wash the box weekly. Empty all the litter, rinse the box with warm water, and scrub it with a pet-safe cleaner or a vinegar solution.

3. Dry and refill. Let the box dry completely before adding fresh litter. This step helps prevent mildew and keeps the box smelling clean.

Tip: If you have more than one cat, you may need to clean the box more often. Once a month, soak the box in a diluted bleach solution for a deep clean.

Pet Bedding

Pet bedding can trap odors deep in the fabric. If you skip washing it, smells will build up fast. You should wash your pet’s bedding every week to keep things fresh.

• Shake off loose hair before washing. You can use a dryer on an air-only cycle to help remove fur.

• Use a detergent made for tough odors, like ARM & HAMMER™ Plus OxiClean™ Odor Blasters.

• Wash bedding at the highest temperature the label allows, ideally 140°F. This helps kill odor-causing bacteria.

• Run an extra rinse cycle to make sure you remove all the soap.

• Dry the bedding on high heat or hang it outside. Wool dryer balls can help fluff the fabric and speed up drying.

Make sure the bedding is completely dry before you put it back. Damp bedding can lead to mildew and even more odors.

You might overlook cages, enclosures, and soft items near your pet’s favorite spots. These areas can hold onto smells, so remember to clean them regularly for a truly fresh home.

Whole-Home Freshness

Air Purification

You want your whole home to smell fresh, not just one room. Air purifiers can help you reach that goal. These machines pull in dirty air, trap tiny particles, and send out clean air. Some models work better than others, especially when you have pets.

Here’s a quick look at what top air purifiers can do:

You might wonder which filters work best for pet smells. Here are the top choices:

1. HEPA Filtration: Captures almost all airborne particles, including pet dander.

2. HyperHEPA Filtration: Traps even smaller particles, making your air extra clean.

3. Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb and neutralize pet odors, so your home smells better.

Tip: Place air purifiers in rooms where your pets spend the most time. This helps keep the air fresh all day.

Ventilation

Opening windows and letting in fresh air can make a big difference. When you increase ventilation, you push out old, smelly air and bring in clean air from outside. This simple step helps clear out pet odors and other pollutants.

• Increased ventilation gets rid of stagnant zones.

• Fresh air supply lowers pet odor levels.

• Good airflow improves indoor air quality for everyone.

A homeowner once shared that better air flow made their house feel cleaner and even helped them sell it, despite having pets. You can use fans, open doors, or install an air quality system to boost ventilation. Fresh air is one of the easiest ways to keep your home smelling great!

Professional Help

When to Call

Sometimes, pet odors just won’t go away no matter how much you clean. You might notice smells that keep coming back or stains that seem impossible to remove. In these cases, calling a professional makes sense. Experts say you should reach out when you face tough problems like deep urine stains, old feces spots, or strong vomit smells. If you have more than one pet and odors have spread, professionals can help you get your home back to normal.

Here’s a quick look at when most people call for help and what it might cost:

Tip: If you’ve tried everything and the smell still lingers, it’s time to let the pros handle it.

What to Expect

When you hire a professional pet odor removal service, you get more than just a quick clean. These experts use special tools and products to reach deep into carpets, floors, and furniture. You can expect a thorough job that goes beyond what you can do yourself. Most services finish in one visit and offer a satisfaction guarantee, so you know your home will smell fresh.

Professionals use eco-friendly solutions to keep your home safe for your family and pets. They know how to find the root of the problem, not just cover up the smell. Every home is different, so they use techniques that fit your needs. You’ll notice a big difference after they finish, and you can breathe easy again.

Prevention Tips

Regular Cleaning

You want your home to smell fresh every day, right? Regular cleaning is the secret. If you have pets, experts say you should clean your carpets at least every six months. That’s twice as often as homes without pets. Vacuuming often helps remove fur and dander before they start to smell. You should also wipe down surfaces and wash pet bedding weekly. Bathing your dog every four to six weeks keeps their coat clean and reduces odors. If your dog has long hair, trimming it helps cut down on shedding and keeps smells away. Brushing your pet not only controls odor but also gives you a chance to bond.

• Clean carpets every six months.

• Bathe dogs every four to six weeks.

• Brush pets regularly to remove loose fur.

• Wash bedding weekly.

Smart feeders, like Petcantalk’s Polar Smart Wet Food Feeder, help keep your pet’s eating area tidy. Less mess means fewer odors. Petcantalk offers a satisfaction guarantee and free shipping on orders over $130, so you get great value and peace of mind.

Training Pets

Training your pets makes a huge difference in keeping your home odor-free. You can teach your dog or cat to stay off furniture and use stain-resistant fabrics for easy cleanup. Respond quickly to accidents by blotting stains and using pet-safe enzymatic cleaners. Always dispose of waste right away. Baking soda and vinegar work well to neutralize smells and lift stains. When you set a regular cleaning routine, you stay ahead of messes and keep your home smelling great.

Tip: Consistent training and cleaning routines help prevent odors before they start.

You can keep your home smelling good by using cleaners that dry fast and are safe. These cleaners help get rid of bad smells and protect your furniture.

1. Make sure surfaces dry quickly

2. Stop things from getting ruined

3. Pick safe cleaners with enzymes

Tell Petcantalk your best tips and enjoy a clean, happy home with no pet smells! 🐾

FAQ

How often should you clean your pet’s bedding?

You should wash your pet’s bedding once a week. This keeps odors away and helps your home stay fresh.

What is the best way to remove pet urine smell from carpet?

Blot the spot, use an enzymatic cleaner, and sprinkle baking soda. Let it sit, then vacuum. This method works well for most pet accidents.

Can air purifiers really help with pet smells?

Yes! Air purifiers with HEPA and carbon filters trap pet dander and odors. Place one where your pet spends the most time for best results.