How to Treat Pet Stains on Carpet

With the addition of Roxie, our new golden retriever puppy, I am reminded of how frequently pet accidents can (and do!) happen.

The key to keeping pet accidents from ruining your carpet is to take a three-pronged approach.

Step 1 – Apply Treatment Solution as Quickly as Possible

My recommended solution for treating pet stains on carpet is:

• 1/4 teaspoon of a mild liquid dishwashing detergent
• 1 cup of warm water

It is important to use mild liquid dishwashing detergent (such as Dawn or Palmolive) and not laundry or automatic dish washing detergent (such as Tide or Cascade) as they can contain agents that can harm carpet dyes and fibers.

Apply a small amount of the treatment solution using a white absorbent cloth or paper towel. The keys here are to start at the parameter of the stain and use a blotting motion. If you rub, or start at the center, the stain is more likely to spread.

Continue to blot toward the center until all the stain is transferred to the cloth.

Step 2 – Neutralize the Treatment Solution

Once the surface stain is removed, the next step is to neutralize the alkalinity of the detergent using:

• 1 cup of white vinegar
• 2 cups of water

Apply the neutralizing solution using a new white absorbent cloth or paper towel then rinse the area with cold water and dry with a clean white cloth or towel. An easy way to dry the area is to stand on the towel for 10 seconds. If it is still damp, lay a dry section/new paper towel down and repeat as needed.

Step 3 – Pet-Friendly Professional Cleaning

Utilizing steps 1 and 2 will help to minimize surface staining (and odors) but professional cleaning equipment is needed for a deep down clean.  Of course, you also want to make sure you select a company that doesn’t use harsh chemicals.

Our hot-water-extraction cleaning method is safe for your pets, children, and carpets. We use state-of-the-art equipment which provides the robust cleaning power needed without over wetting the area.

Questions? I am always available to answer your stain removal questions and concerns. Call us today at (513) 777-8770 to learn more about our carpet and upholstery cleaning services. Or email us at service@extra-effort.com to learn about this month’s cleaning special.

Elliott S. Fishman, Co-Owner
Extra Effort Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Inc.

About Elliott S. Fishman

Elliott Fishman, along with his son Brian, is the owner and operator of Extra Effort Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Inc.   We serve the residents and businesses of Greater Cincinnati to include West Chester, Mason, Maineville, Loveland, Wyoming, Fairfield, Indian Hill, Montgomery, Hyde Park and Anderson Township. Elliott started this company in 1984, based on the belief that it takes Extra Effort to make each job a success. The father/son team puts the extra time, extra care, and extra effort go into every task they undertake – no matter how large or small the job. Extra Effort’s quality equipment, trained technicians and safe products have made the company a top choice for residential and commercial carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, water damage / water extraction, fabric protection, odor control and spot removal.