Removing Urine Stains from Carpets and Upholstery

A urine stain, is never exactly the same material and may produce different reactions with fabrics and fibers at different times.

If you have a pet or young child, you're faced with the possibility of having to remove a urine stain. All stains can't be removed, nor will all urine accidents result in a stain. Urine removes waste from the body, so the urine content of animals, for example, will vary widely with age, sex, breed, temperament, diet and health.

A special note about cat urine- unless the stain is removed immediately, there will be little chance of completely eliminating the odor.

Most urine stains, however, can be removed if you work on them within the first couple of hours. If the stain is not completely removed, a slow reaction of the urine and carpet or fabric dyes may occur after a period of time.

If carpet is discolored…

The only way to restore carpet color is to apply dye. A professional carpet cleaning person may be able to re-dye the stained area. On carpets, one possibility is to cut out and replace carpet with another matching piece. If the urine is completely removed, however, discoloration is generally not a problem.

To remove urine, blot the excess liquid as quickly as possible with clean, absorbent materials such as paper towels or cloths. Sponge the area with white vinegar diluted with water; then sponge the area with detergent and cool water; finally blot the area with clear, cool water. Blot the spot as dry as possible with a clean cloth or towel.

If odor persists…

It's possible to remove the urine from the face of carpet or upholstery so no stain will develop; and still have a problem with the odor. The urine may have penetrated the padding, cushioning or underlay.

If this occurs and there is no way to clean these materials, after the surface has been cleaned. It may help to disinfect the area by saturating it with denatured or rubbing alcohol; then rinse with clear, cool water. Blot the area as dry as possible. Place dry absorbent material over the wet area and press it to remove moisture. If the absorbent material becomes wet, replace it until as much moisture has been removed as possible

For more information on removing urine stains from carpets and upholstery, contact your local County Extension Office.