How to Remove Pet Stains and Odours from Your Sofa: Proven Cleaning Tips

Pet stains, especially those caused by urine or vomit, present a unique challenge for homeowners. The proteins and ammonia in urine can penetrate deep into the fabric of your sofa, leaving behind stubborn stains and unpleasant odours that can be difficult to eliminate. If these stains aren't dealt with promptly, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Additionally, pet urine can attract flies and other insects that feed on the waste. Untreated pet stains may also cause permanent discolouration over time, further damaging your furniture.

To preserve your furniture and extend its lifespan, it's essential to act quickly to remove pet stains. However, effective stain removal depends on understanding the material your sofa is made from and applying the appropriate cleaning methods.

Research indicates that fresh stains are 70% more likely to be completely removed compared to those left untreated for over 24 hours. Addressing the stain promptly ensures your sofa won't become a repeat target for your pet, as lingering odours can encourage them to return to the same spot.

DIY Cleaning Solution for Pet Stains: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Blot the Stain

The first step in removing pet stains is to gently blot up as much of the liquid as possible. Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to press against the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric fibres. Blotting helps absorb excess moisture and prepares the area for cleaning. A useful tip is to use a white cloth to prevent colour transfer from the fabric onto your sofa.

Step 2: Apply Cleaning Solutions for Pet Stains

Once you have blotted away most of the stain, it’s time to apply a cleaning solution. Several DIY options work wonders on pet stains:

Vinegar and Water Solution

Vinegar is a versatile, natural deodoriser and disinfectant that’s ideal for breaking down the ammonia in pet urine. Here’s how to use it:

• How to Use: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution generously over the stained area and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
• Why It Works: Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in pet urine, reducing odour and helping to loosen the stain from the fabric.
• Pro Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or tea tree oil) to mask the vinegar smell while enhancing its antibacterial properties.

Baking Soda and Water Paste

Baking soda is renowned for its powerful odour-absorbing and stain-lifting properties.

• How to Use: Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain, ensuring full coverage. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes to an hour, then gently scrape off the paste and wipe with a damp cloth.
• Why It Works: Baking soda binds with the stain molecules and absorbs lingering odours, leaving your sofa smelling fresh.
• Pro Tip: Sprinkle extra baking soda on the area after the initial treatment for additional odour absorption. Let it sit overnight, then vacuum it up.

Enzymatic Cleaners

Enzymatic cleaners are specifically designed to target and break down organic compounds in pet stains.

• How to Use: Purchase an enzymatic cleaner formulated for upholstery (read labels carefully). Apply the cleaner as instructed, ensuring the solution penetrates deeply into the fabric. Let it sit for the recommended time before blotting it away with a clean cloth.
• Why It Works: These cleaners use enzymes to digest proteins found in pet urine, vomit, or feces, eliminating both the stain and its source of odour.
• Pro Tip: Use enzymatic cleaners on older stains or those that have already set into the fabric for a more thorough clean.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap Solution

This combination works particularly well on light-coloured fabrics where bleaching isn’t a concern.

• How to Use: Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Dab the solution onto the stain and gently scrub with a soft cloth. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.
• Why It Works: Hydrogen peroxide acts as a mild bleaching agent, while dish soap cuts through grease and grime.
• Pro Tip: Test the solution on a hidden area of your sofa first to ensure it doesn’t cause discolouration.

Lemon Juice and Salt Paste

This natural cleaner is a great option for upholstery that can handle acidic solutions.

• How to Use: Mix fresh lemon juice with salt to form a paste. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. Wipe it away with a damp cloth.
• Why It Works: Lemon juice acts as a natural bleaching agent, while salt helps scrub away the stain.
• Pro Tip: Avoid using lemon juice on dark fabrics, as it may cause fading.

Step 3: Gently Scrub the Stain

Using a soft-bristled brush or cloth, gently scrub the stained area in a circular motion. This helps lift the stain from the fibres without damaging the fabric. Avoid scrubbing too aggressively, as this can wear down the fabric and cause pilling. For microfiber sofas, it's important to use a microfiber cloth to maintain the fabric's soft texture.

Step 4: Rinse and Blot Dry

After scrubbing, use a clean cloth dampened with water to rinse away any remaining cleaning solution. It’s crucial to remove all residues to prevent the cleaning agents from attracting dirt in the future. Blot the area dry with a fresh towel, absorbing as much moisture as possible. A handy tip is to place a fan near the sofa to speed up the drying process and prevent any lingering moisture from creating a damp smell.

Step 5: Deodorise the Sofa

Even after the stain is removed, pet odours can linger. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for several hours, or even overnight, to absorb any residual odours. Vacuum the baking soda away, and your sofa should smell fresh again.

You may also like: How to Clean a Velvet Sofa

Preventing Future Pet Stains

Preventing future stains is key to keeping your sofa clean and free from pet-related messes. Here are some proactive measures you can take:

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Perform regular cleanings to maintain the appearance and cleanliness of your sofa. Vacuuming at least once a week helps remove dirt, pet hair, and dander, preventing them from settling into the fabric. Consider investing in a washable sofa cover that is easy to remove for quick cleaning when accidents occur.

Use Pet-Friendly Fabrics

When choosing a sofa, consider materials that are resistant to stains and easy to clean. Leather and synthetic fabrics like microfiber are excellent choices for pet owners because they are less absorbent and easier to wipe clean. Leather’s durability and resistance to wear and tear make it a preferred choice for people with pets, and it’s less likely to absorb odours.

Train Your Pets

Proper training is a long-term solution to reducing pet-related messes. Training your pets to avoid jumping on the furniture or ensuring they have designated areas to play and relax can minimise accidents. Providing them with cosy beds or blankets placed in specific areas can also make your sofa less tempting.

Professional Cleaning Services

Despite your best efforts to remove the pet stains from your sofa, some of them may still require professional attention. Professional cleaning services offer a deeper clean than most at-home methods, using specialised equipment and solutions tailored to your specific sofa material. Professional cleaners often use hot water extraction techniques that reach deep into the sofa's fibres to remove even the most stubborn stains and bacteria. This method is highly effective in restoring your sofa to its original condition.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning

Hiring professionals can be a game-changer for maintaining your sofa. They are equipped with the knowledge and tools to treat various fabrics and stains while extending the life of your furniture. Moreover, professional cleaning not only get rug of pet stains but also helps to eliminate allergens, dust mites, and other pollutants trapped in your sofa, contributing to a healthier home environment.

Read more for expert stain removal tips: How to remove stains from leather sofa

Conclusion

Pet stains on your sofa don’t have to be a nightmare. With quick action, the right cleaning techniques, and some preventative measures, you can say goodbye to those pesky spots and odours. Whether you choose to handle the cleaning yourself or call in the professionals, keeping your sofa clean will ensure it remains a comfortable and inviting spot for both you and your pets to enjoy.

FAQ: How to Remove Pet Stains and Odours from Your Sofa