Pets Gone Wild on Your Carpet?
Home odors may originate from a variety of sources. One common source is from our beloved pets!
Pet urine can permanently damage your floors and fabrics, it can also create an unhealthy environment.
- When urine is first excreted, it is on the acid side of the pH scale (usually 5 or 6). Urine is easily removed at this point. (See Pet Stain Removal Tips below)
- When urine dries, it turn to an alkaline on the pH scale (10 to 12) and produces a strong ammonia. At this stage, the urine is much more difficult to remove.
When urine is first deposited, it begins to oxidize and reacts with the carpet or fabric fiber to create a color change. Many times this has a yellow to brown tint. This color change can be permanent if the urine is not quickly removed. An unpleasant odor is caused from waste materials and gases from the decomposing urine. When dried urine is remoistened, it gives off an ammonia gas. This explains a re-occurring odor on humid moist days, or when the area is re-cleaned without enzyme treatment.
Pet Stain & Odor Removal
To remove a fresh urine spot:
- Have a small one gallon wet vac on hand
- Simply vacuum the urine out of the carpet
- Use a rinse of a part white vinegar to 2 parts water
- Pour the solution over the area, agitate gently
- Vacuum the solution out
- Repeat if necessary
To remove a urine stain that is several hours old:
- Call our office for instructions on the use of enzymes
Products to Avoid
Try to stay away from products with high pH such as ammonia and oxygen bleaches. These products will leave the carpet with a high pH and a residue that will attract soil back to the area.
How Professionals Remove Urine
In order to remove the urine, all of the alkaline salt deposits the urine leaves behind must be completely neutralized and removed. This can be quite extensive and very time consuming depending on the situation. Technicians with Buddy’s Carpet Care will access your situation with equipment that pinpoints the areas affected. They will go over treatment options with you and you make the final decision. Sometimes areas are so heavily contaminated that the best choice is replacement of carpet.
Disclaimer: Use these techniques at your own risk. Always read directions on any spotter before using. Pre-test each spotter in an inconspicuous area before using. If the stain or odor persists, call Buddy’s.