All dogs have a distinctive odour: skin oils and damp fur can cause an unpleasant smell, so regular bathing, parasite treatment and thorough drying are important. Rather than covering basic pet care, here are practical tips for removing pet urine and animal smells from carpets.
Carpets soak up skin secretions, sweat and loose hair, which can contribute to lingering odours. If possible, consider replacing wall-to-wall carpets in homes with pets. If you keep carpets, arrange a professional deep clean at least twice a year—this is more than a quick vacuum and helps remove embedded dirt and smells.
Pet urine stains are often invisible: you may smell a strong ammonia-like scent even when you cannot see a mark. Cats tend to urinate under furniture; dogs are more likely to go in corners or out in the open. When you find a soiled area, the best option is a professional carpet clean. Professionals use the right equipment to remove moisture, residues and urine salts from the whole carpet rather than just treating one spot.
If you want to try a DIY approach, here are two home remedies used for pet urine:
– Hydrogen peroxide and dish soap: Mix about 100 ml of 3% hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of a clear, concentrated dishwashing detergent. Apply to the stained area, let it work briefly, then blot with a clean cloth and allow to dry. Test the solution on a hidden spot first to check for colourfastness. This method may help but does not guarantee complete removal.
– Baking soda spray: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 500 ml of water, put the solution in a spray bottle and mist the affected area. Let it dry completely, then vacuum thoroughly to lift the residue and neutralize odour.
Avoid incomplete drying or leaving cleaning residues, as these can encourage bacteria and mould growth. Steam (hot water extraction) carpet cleaning by professionals is a reliable way to remove dirt, organic matter and odours from the entire carpet; it’s effective and can keep smells at bay for many months.
