Accidents happen, even with the best-trained pets. From muddy pawprints to an unexpected mess, learning how to remove pet stains the right way keeps your carpets clean and your home smelling great.
This guide walks you through how to remove pet stains, the best methods for different types of messes, and how to keep carpets, rugs and hard floors looking their best.
Common types of pet stains
Because each type of pet stain reacts differently, identifying the mess first makes it much easier to choose the right cleaning method.
· Urine accidents – the biggest challenge is the odour. Specific products and deep cleaning are essential for urine.
· Mud and dirt – mud contains tiny particles that embed into fibres. Gentle detergents and thorough extraction can help.
· Food and vomit – these contain fats and dyes, so they often need a pre-treatment before a deep clean.
· Pet odours – even without a visible stain, smells can linger in the fibres or underlay.
How to remove pet stains
Cleaning with pets can be challenging when it feels like they are constantly making a mess, but with these simple steps it doesn’t have to be a battle.
Step 1: Blot, don’t scrub
Absorb as much of the stain from the carpet fibres as possible using kitchen roll or a clean cloth. Avoid scrubbing as this can spread the stain deeper and make it more difficult to remove.
Step 2: Pre-treat the area
Use a carpet-safe stain solution that is also safe for use around pets. Saturate the stain thoroughly and wait around 5-10 minutes, to allow it to soak into the carpet fibres. Avoid using products with ammonia as this can attract pets back to the same spot.
Step 3: Gently rinse
Lightly rinse the area with warm water to flush loosened residue from the fibres. Gently dab the stained area with a damp, clean cloth to remove any residue and cleaning product. Don’t use excessive water as this can slow down the drying process.
Step 4: Use a carpet cleaner
Using a carpet cleaner is one of the most effective ways to remove pet stains and odours. These lift embedded dirt from deep within the fibres, extracts excess moisture and helps prevent re-soiling, leaving your carpet fresher and cleaner.
Step 5: Allow the area to fully dry
This is a crucial step to prevent the growth of mould or mildew. Use fans or open windows to speed up the drying process. Damp carpet traps odours and can hinder the carpet going back to its original texture and appearance.
Pair this routine with a vacuum cleaner – or more specifically a pet vacuum cleaner – to keep on top of the mess daily.
Handling different types of pet stains
Fresh urine stains
· Blot immediately.
· Apply a pet-safe cleaner liberally.
· Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before blotting again.
· Rinse lightly and extract using a carpet cleaner.
Old urine stains
· Rehydrate the area with warm water first.
· Apply a pet-specific solution.
· Use a slow, deep-clean method with a carpet washer for full odour removal.
Mud and dirt
· Allow dry mud to dry completely before vacuuming.
· Apply a mild solution of detergent and warm water.
· Gently blot, rinse and extract.
Vomit and food
· Remove solids first.
· Pre-treat with an enzymatic cleaner.
· Deep clean using your carpet washer to remove hidden residue and smells.
How often should you deep clean your carpets?
Even with regular spot cleaning, carpets benefit from routine deep cleaning, especially in homes with pets.
· Every 3–6 months for most households
· Every 1–2 months if you have multiple pets, heavy shedding or frequent accidents
· After any notable mess to prevent stains becoming permanent
Routine cleaning helps prevent odours, reduces bacteria, and keeps fibres in better condition.
How to remove pet stains from rugs without damage
Rugs can be delicate or colour-sensitive, so they require a gentler approach, especially when you’re figuring out how to get dog urine out of rug fibres safely.
· Place a towel under the rug to catch any moisture.
· Blot the stain instead of rubbing.
· Apply a cleaner sparingly (avoid over wetting).
· Rinse lightly using a cloth dipped in warm water.
· Allow the rug to air dry completely before putting it back on the floor.
For wool or hand-woven rugs, always test cleaning solutions on a small patch first.
How do you remove pet stains from hardwood floors?
The process for removing pet stains from hardwood floors is different from carpet care.
· Blot quickly before the liquid soaks into the wood grain.
· Use a hardwood-safe cleaner, avoid abrasive chemicals.
· Using a floor washer can make the process quicker and easier whilst staying streak-free.
· Dry thoroughly to prevent swelling or warping.
· If odour remains, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda over the area, leave for a few hours, then vacuum.
Deep stains on hardwood may require professional refinishing. We recommend regularly mopping your kitchen or other hardwood floor areas to prevent any stains or odour build up.
A cleaner, fresher home for you and your pets
Pet mess is unavoidable, but lasting stains don’t have to be. Whether you’re dealing with muddy tracks, fresh spills, or figuring out how to remove stains from carpet, the right combination of blotting, spot cleaning and deep extraction can restore your floors with minimal effort.