Pet Urine - How to Remove the Urine Smell From Carpets

In order to remove pet urine smell from carpets, it is important to first understand how the odor is caused, and what deodorization implies. It will then be easy to choose and apply the most effective and relevant procedures.

The main component of freshly excreted urine is uric acid, which is just slightly acidic. Other constituents include enzymes, cholesterol, urea and trace amounts of other chemicals. The offensive smell is quickly generated as the water evaporates and it is transformed into a mild alkaline. That is why it becomes stronger under humid conditions, or when the carpet is wet.These urine salts also provide a perfect breeding ground for many kinds of microorganisms, whose metabolic byproducts also contribute to the bad odor.

Incidentally, the yellowish color is a result of rapid oxidation of acidic components in the urine.

Generally, deodorization of carpet is accomplished by applying the following types of chemicals:

• Odor Substitutes. These will mask the smell by exchanging it for one with a more pleasant odor - like perfume.
• Combiners. These will pair and react with the odor molecule and neutralize it.
• Enzymes. These will break down proteins and digest waste solids so that the odor causing microorganism dies for lack of food.
• Disinfectants. These will also kill bacteria, but will have no effect on other chemicals which may be the source of the odors

One potential problem with urine smell removal from carpet, is that the urine spots may not always be readily visible. Sometimes, the yellow stain may not appear, and this is particularly problematic, especially when the carpet is orange or brown in color. The solution to this, is to use an ultraviolet or "black" light to locate the stains, which will show up in the dark under these conditions.

If there is too much lighting in the room, it will probably be necessary to use a high intensity UV light source.

Once the problem area is identified, it should be sprayed with an acidic solution to decompose the alkaline salts and residues on the carpet fibers. Most janitorial or cleaning supply shops will carry suitable tannin, coffee or urine treatment spotters which will do the job. The chemical should then be groomed into the fibers and left to react for at least 10 minutes.

Next, rinse the area with warm water and spray with an enzyme complex designed for urine neutralization treatment. Leave this on the carpet for 15 minutes.

The final step is to clean the carpet thoroughly, with the regular carpet cleaning procedures. Deep steam cleaning with truck-mounted equipment is the preferred method.

In cases of severe contamination, a disinfectant may be injected directly into the area, or sprayed directly over it. It may also need to be sprayed directly unto the carpet backing and substrate.

Generally speaking, odor substitutes should rarely be used, because they really do not remove the smell from the carpet, and only postpone the problem.

When all else fails to correct the problem, replace the pad under the carpet, treat the back and substrate, and then re-install and clean the carpet.