Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator

Neutralize pet accidents and eliminate odors from carpets and furniture. Enzyme-action formula that works.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Yield Multiple applications
Difficulty Easy
Cost $0.75

Ingredients

  • 1 cup White vinegar
  • 1/2 cup Baking soda
  • 1/4 cup Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
  • 1 teaspoon Dish soap
Safe for: most carpets, upholstery, mattresses, hard floors
Avoid on: silk, wool, delicate fabrics, dark colors without testing

Why This Recipe Works

Vinegar neutralizes the alkaline salts in pet urine that cause the lingering smell. Baking soda absorbs moisture and odors. Hydrogen peroxide oxidizes odor-causing compounds and helps lift stains. Together, they work to eliminate both the stain and the odor that can cause pets to re-mark the spot.

Instructions

  1. Blot fresh stains: For fresh accidents, blot up as much liquid as possible first. Don’t rub - this spreads the stain.

  2. Apply vinegar: Pour vinegar directly on the stain, saturating the area. The vinegar will neutralize the ammonia smell.

  3. Blot again: Blot up excess vinegar with clean towels.

  4. Apply baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda generously over the area. It will absorb remaining moisture and odors.

  5. Peroxide treatment: Mix hydrogen peroxide with dish soap. Drizzle over the baking soda.

  6. Wait and vacuum: Let everything dry completely (this may take several hours), then vacuum thoroughly.

Tips & Variations

  • For old stains: Saturate with vinegar first and let sit 30 minutes before proceeding.
  • Mattresses: Use sparingly and allow to dry completely before making the bed.
  • Black light: Use a black light to find old stains you can’t see.
  • Repeat if needed: Stubborn stains may need multiple treatments.

Safety Notes

  • Test for colorfastness: Peroxide can bleach fabrics. Always test first.
  • Dry completely: Don’t use the area until fully dry to prevent mold.
  • Keep pets away: Until area is completely clean and dry.
  • Avoid on wool: The alkaline baking soda and acidic vinegar can damage wool fibers.

Storage

Make fresh for each use. The fizzing action when combined is part of what makes it effective.

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