Foul smells in the home can be annoying and sometimes difficult to get rid of, especially when it’s the smell of urine absorbed into a rug. It can be caused by a pet, a child, or an accident, and can significantly impact the entire home environment if not addressed promptly. However, by following the proper steps, you can eliminate the foul smell and restore your rug to its clean state. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively remove the urine smell from a carpet. 

Remove Urine Smell From a Rug- Easy Guide

In this article, we’ve enlisted the whole procedure of removing the urine smell from a rug. Follow all the steps to see effective results. 

Step 1: Be Quick

There is a saying, “The sooner, the better.” The sooner you act to absorb the urine from the rug, the better the chances of complete cleanliness. As soon as the particular spot is wet, try to absorb as much urine as possible with a paper towel or an absorbent cloth. Press the paper towel onto the spot and absorb as much liquid as possible. Don’t rub the area otherwise, it may push the urine deeper.

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Step 2: Use a Vinegar Solution 

White vinegar is known for its disinfecting properties. It neutralizes the ammonia in urine, which is the primary cause of its unpleasant smell. To make a vinegar solution, mix equal quantities of water and vinegar in a spray bottle. 

Spray the solution thoroughly over the affected spot and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to reach the deeper fibers of the rug. In this way, the solution is given time to break the compounds that cause the odor. 

After 15 minutes, absorb the liquid again with a clean cloth. You might have to do it twice if the smell is too strong. 

Step 3: Use Baking Soda

Once you have cleansed the area with a vinegar solution, sprinkle the area generously with baking soda. Baking soda has the natural property of absorbing foul smells. Let it sit for about 8 to 10 hours, and it will absorb the remaining moisture in the rug, causing the remaining smell to dissipate. 

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Step 4: Vacuum the Area 

Once the baking soda has done its work, now it’s time to clean it off the rug. You will need a vacuum cleaner with strong suction to remove the particles of baking soda that are resting in the deeper layers of the rug. You may need to repeat this process a few times to ensure that no particles of baking soda are left behind. 

Step 5: Enzymatic Cleaner for Pet Urine

Pet urine contains uric acid crystals that make it difficult to remove using vinegar solutions alone. That is when enzymatic solutions come to the rescue. These enzymatic solutions are crafted to break down the acids and proteins present in pet urine. Several brands, such as Rocco & Roxie and Nature’s Miracles, are available in the market. Just follow the instructions on the label. Soak the affected area with this solution and let it dry. It will absorb all the moisture and foul smell from the rug. 

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What to Avoid

• Avoid using shampoo and steam cleaners; they may be tempting at the moment, but they can leave a permanent stain on the rug, and even the smell can penetrate the deeper fibers. 
• Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they may cause fiber loss.

What you Can do to Prevent This

If it happens often, you need to take preventive measures to reduce this occurrence at your home, such as training your pets to use a designated area for toileting, using waterproof rugs, and performing a weekly deep cleaning of the carpet with plenty of water and a rug washing detergent. 

Coming to an End!

Getting rid of the urine smell from a rug isn’t the most pleasant task, but by following the proper steps, it’s possible to do it. You simply need to act quickly and use natural deodorizers, such as vinegar and baking soda, and enzymatic cleaners as needed. This will keep your rug clean and in excellent condition, and your home will continue to smell fresh without the need for air fresheners.