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If you’ve got pets, you know accidents happen. No matter how well-trained your furry friend is, there’s always a chance you’ll end up dealing with a little mess on the carpet. And let’s be honest pet urine isn’t just a stain issue; it’s the lingering smell that really makes things tricky.
So, what’s the best carpet cleaner for tackling pet urine? You need something powerful enough to get deep into the fibres, lift out the stain, and actually remove the odour instead of just masking it. Let’s go through some top picks that can help keep your carpets fresh and clean.
OUR SCORE
4.8/5
Exceptional
1. BISSELL SpotClean ProHeat Carpet Cleaner
OUR SCORE
4.7/5
Exceptional
2. Vax SpotWash Spot Cleaner – Versatile and Portable
OUR SCORE
4.6/5
Excellent
3. Vax SpotWash Home Duo Spot Cleaner
OUR SCORE
4.6/5
Excellent
4. Vytronix SWASH450P Spot Cleaner
OUR SCORE
4.5/5
Excellent
5. Zennox Spot Buster PET Carpet Cleaner
Will a carpet cleaner remove the urine smell completely?
Yes. A carpet cleaner can remove the urine smell completely if used correctly with the right cleaning solution. Enzymatic cleaners are the best choice because they break down urine at a molecular level, eliminating odours rather than just covering them up.
For fresh stains, blot up as much liquid as possible before using the carpet cleaner. Running the machine slowly over the stain with a pet-specific cleaning solution will help lift the urine out of the carpet fibres. Rinsing with clean water afterward removes any leftover residue that could trap odours.
For older or deep-set stains, a second cleaning may be needed. If the smell lingers, the urine might have soaked into the carpet padding, which may require additional treatment. Sprinkling baking soda over the cleaned area and vacuuming it up after a few hours can help absorb any remaining odours.
Best Cleaning Solutions for Pet Urine Removal
Not all cleaning solutions work the same, and some can make the problem worse. These are the best types to use for pet messes.
1. Enzymatic Cleaners
These break down the proteins in urine, eliminating odours instead of just covering them up. They’re a must-have for deep cleaning pet stains.
2. Oxygen-Based Cleaners
Great for tackling tough stains, these use oxygen to lift out messes. They’re especially helpful for older, set-in stains.
3. Vinegar and Baking Soda (for Spot Cleaning)
A mix of white vinegar and water can help neutralise smells. Sprinkle baking soda over the area after cleaning, let it sit, and vacuum it up for extra freshness.
4. Commercial Pet Carpet Shampoo
Look for a carpet cleaner solution specifically made for pet odours. Avoid anything with ammonia—since urine contains ammonia, it might make pets more likely to go in the same spot again.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide Mix (for Light-Coloured Carpets)
A mix of hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and water can help with stubborn stains. Just do a patch test first to avoid bleaching your carpet.