How to Get Rid of Urine Smell in Rug

Urinating on the rug can be a common occurrence for pets or even small children.

If you're dealing with a stubborn urine smell in your rug, there are ways to tackle this tricky issue. Blending baking soda with a splash of vinegar can be a game-changer in neutralizing odors.

But what if the smell lingers? Don't fret, there are professional solutions that might just be the ace up your sleeve.

So, before you swap that rug, consider exploring these odor-eliminating strategies on how to get rid of urine smell in rug.

Why is Urine Smell So Hard to Remove?

There are several reasons why urine smell is so difficult to get rid of in carpet. First and foremost, urine contains uric acid, which can penetrate deep into the fibers of the carpet and create a strong, persistent odor. Unlike other types of stains, urine doesn't just sit on the surface of the carpet - it seeps down into the padding and even the subflooring, making it much harder to completely eliminate.

Additionally, the longer urine sits in the carpet, the more time it has to break down and create ammonia, which can intensify the smell and make it even more difficult to remove. If left untreated, urine can also attract bacteria that feed on the ammonia and release foul-smelling gases, further exacerbating the problem.

Identifying the Source of the Odor

The first step in identifying the source of the urine odor is to locate the affected area. This may seem obvious, but sometimes pet accidents can go unnoticed for days or even weeks, allowing the odor to permeate the carpet and surrounding areas. Use your sense of smell to pinpoint areas that may be affected. You can also use a black light, which will illuminate any urine stains that may be invisible to the naked eye.

Once you have located the affected area, it’s important to determine whether the urine has soaked through the carpet and into the padding below. If this is the case, you may need to lift up the carpet and replace the padding to effectively remove the odor.

Next, you will need to clean the affected area thoroughly to remove as much of the odor-causing bacteria as possible. There are many commercial pet stain and odor removers available, but you can also make your own using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet before applying it to the entire stain to avoid any damage.

Blot up the urine

The first step in cleaning up urine from the carpet is to blot up as much of the liquid as possible. Use paper towels or a clean, absorbent cloth to gently press down on the spot. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can push the urine further into the carpet fibers and make the stain worse. Instead, blotting will help soak up the urine without spreading it around.

Once you’ve soaked up as much urine as possible, it’s time to tackle the stain and odor. You can make a homemade cleaner using equal parts water and white vinegar, or purchase a pet-specific enzyme cleaner from your local pet store. Spray the cleaner onto the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes to break down the urine molecules.

After allowing the cleaner to do its job, use a clean cloth to blot up the excess moisture. You may need to repeat this process a few times to completely remove the stain and odor. Once you’re satisfied with the results, allow the area to air dry thoroughly.

Rinse the area

Once you have blotted up as much of the urine as possible using paper towels or a clean cloth, the next step is to rinse the affected area. Rinsing the area is important for several reasons. First, it helps to dilute and remove any remaining urine that may still be lingering in the carpet fibers. Second, it helps to neutralize any odors that may be present, leaving your carpet smelling fresh and clean.

There are a few different ways you can rinse the area after blotting up the urine. One option is to mix a solution of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Simply spritz the affected area with the solution and then blot it up with a clean cloth or paper towel. The acidity of the vinegar helps to neutralize odors and break down any remaining urine residue.

Another option is to use a commercial carpet cleaner specifically designed for pet stains. These cleaners are formulated to break down urine molecules and remove any odors, leaving your carpet looking and smelling like new. Simply follow the instructions on the product label for best results.

DIY Cleaning Solutions

For effectively tackling the urine smell in your rug, consider utilizing DIY cleaning solutions that are both cost-effective and eco-friendly. When dealing with pet accidents or other sources of urine odor, natural remedies can be highly effective.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

One of the most effective DIY cleaning solutions for removing urine odor from carpets is a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Simply sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and then spray it with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum up the baking soda. The vinegar will help neutralize the odor, while the baking soda will absorb any remaining moisture.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

Another effective DIY cleaning solution for urine odor is a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with two teaspoons of baking soda and a few drops of dish soap. Pour the mixture over the affected area and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Blot up the excess liquid with a clean cloth and then sprinkle baking soda over the area. Let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up.

Enzyme Cleaner

Enzyme cleaners are specifically designed to break down and remove odors caused by urine. They are very effective and can be found at most pet stores. Simply follow the instructions on the label and apply the enzyme cleaner to the affected area. Let it sit for the recommended amount of time before blotting up any excess liquid. Enzyme cleaners work by breaking down the urine molecules, rather than just masking the odor.

Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is another effective way to remove urine odor from carpets. The hot steam helps to lift and remove dirt, bacteria, and odors deep within the carpet fibers. You can either rent a steam cleaner or hire a professional carpet cleaning service to do the job for you.

Preventing Future Accidents

To prevent future accidents, make sure to thoroughly clean up any urine as soon as it happens. Blot up as much liquid as possible with a clean cloth and then use one of the DIY cleaning solutions mentioned above to remove any lingering odor. Consider using a pet odor neutralizer or deterrent spray on the affected area to help prevent your pet from going back to the same spot.

Professional Cleaning Services

Consider hiring professional cleaning services to thoroughly eliminate stubborn urine smells from your rug and ensure a fresh and odor-free living space.

Professional cleaning services have the expertise and equipment to effectively remove urine odors from your carpet. They use specialized cleaning solutions that penetrate deep into the carpet fibers to break down and eliminate the urine odors at the source. This not only removes the odor but also helps prevent future stains and odors from reappearing.

One of the key benefits of hiring professional cleaning services is that they can help extend the life of your carpet. Urine odors can not only be unpleasant but can also weaken the carpet fibers and cause damage over time. By regularly cleaning and treating your carpet for urine odors, you can help prolong its lifespan and keep it looking fresh and clean.

In addition to removing urine odors, professional cleaning services can also help improve the overall cleanliness and appearance of your carpet. They can remove deep-seated dirt, dust, and allergens that regular vacuuming and spot cleaning may not be able to get rid of. This not only makes your carpet look better but also creates a healthier environment for you and your family.



When choosing a professional cleaning service to get rid of urine odors in your carpet, make sure to look for a reputable company with experience and positive reviews. It's also important to inquire about the cleaning methods and products they use to ensure they are safe and effective for your carpet.