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9 Best Carpet Cleaners for Pet Urine of 2024

Updated
Beat that pee stench with one of these top carpet cleaners.

Is your new little pup not yet house trained? Or maybe your old pal is having trouble making it outside? We know all too well the struggle of cleaning pet urine. But it’s even more frustrating when it happens on the carpet.

Don’t worry; we’re here to help you tackle the urine stains and odors. We put together the ultimate list of the best carpet cleaners for pet urine. These, along with some added information, should help you come to a urine-cleaning solution.

Our Top Picks

We independently assess, research, and evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Best Overall: Smiling Paws Pets Stain Eliminator
  • Fast-acting enzymes
  • Versatile for various floor types
  • Lab-tested
Best Oxy-Based: Shout Carpet Urine Destroyer
  • Short reaction time
  • Prevents remarking
  • No rinsing needed
Best Biodegradable: Carbona Stain Scrubber
  • Powerful bio-enzyme formula
  • Built-in sponge
  • Easy to use
Best for Multiple Stains: Rejuvenate Stain and Pet Odor Eliminator
  • Prevents stains from reappearing
  • Excellent bio-enzymatic formula
  • Use on soft surfaces
Best Concentrate: Genesis 950 Concentrate
  • Long-lasting formula
  • Deodorizes pet smells
  • Multi-purpose
Best for Pet Stains and Odors: Hoover Paws & Claws
  • Stain Guard technology
  • Neutralizes odor
  • Enzyme-based concentrate
Best Professional Strength: Rocco & Roxie Professional
  • Deep cleans with professional strength
  • Highly effective enzyme solution
  • Works in the laundry too
Best Versatility: OdoBan 3-In-1 Cleaner
  • Long-lasting formula
  • Detergent-free for use on upholstery
  • Recognized by the EPA
Best Carpet Shampoo: Rug Doctor Pet Cleaner
  • Non-toxic and non-irritating formula
  • SpotBlock protects carpet from stains
  • Excellent for large areas


Product Reviews

Are you ready to meet the carpet cleaners that will eliminate stinky puppy pee? Let’s go.

Smiling Paws Pets Stain and Odor Eliminator

Best Overall Carpet Cleaner for Pet Urine

If you have a pet urine emergency, this spray could quickly come in handy. It’s convenient as all you have to do is point and spray the stain. There’s no need to dilute with water.

You can use this spray no matter where your pet might’ve had an accident in the house. It’s safe on hardwood floors, litter boxes, kennels, upholstery, and more. You can even use it on concrete and artificial grass.

The formula uses an advanced bio-enzyme blend that removes the stain and odor quickly and efficiently. It will consume ammonia and other biological matters until they’re entirely gone.

You can safely use it around children and pets, thanks to the non-toxic formula. Smiling Paws Pets believes in its product so much that the brand offers you your money back if you’re not happy.

Pros

  • Fast-acting enzymes work within 15 minutes.
  • Easy to use due to the spray bottle design.
  • Versatile formula is suitable for hardwood floors, carpets, kennels, and more.
  • Non-toxic formula is safe to use around children and pets.
  • Lab-tested and fully certified in the USA.

Cons

  • The container is only 32 ounces, which might not last long.
  • Doesn’t work as well for preventing cats from peeing in the same spot.
  • The product scent is strong and overwhelming.

Product Specs

Quantity 32 ounces
Removes Urine, pet messes, odors
Application Method Not specified
Safe On Carpets, rugs, upholstery, tiles, concrete, hardwood
Manufacturer Smiling Paws Pets

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
5 / 5
Ease of Use
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

Shout Carpet Urine Destroyer

Best Oxy-Based Carpet Cleaner Formula for Pet Urine

Tough stains call for robust products, like Shout Carpet Urine Destroyer, which definitely lives up to its name.

Urine Destroyer works quickly at eliminating the foul odors that are often present when the stain has settled. The oxygen-based formula digs into the carpet fibers to remove all traces of the stain.

We love that this product is easy to use. Start by locating the spot and saturating it with the product. Leave it to sit for three to five minutes, and then blot the spot gently; there’s no need to scrub.

This product is also fast-acting and doesn’t require any rinsing. After blotting out the stain, let it dry naturally, then vacuum.

A common problem with pets is that they tend to return to the same spot. Shout has thought this through and made the formula stronger. This way, it eliminates the odor and prevents remarking.

Pros

  • Short reaction time; you only need to let it sit for five minutes.
  • Prevents pets from coming back to urinate in the same spot.
  • No rinsing is needed; simply blot, let it dry, then vacuum.
  • Removes odors exceptionally well and leaves behind a nice scent.
  • Oxygen-based formula tackles stains deeply into the carpet fibers.

Cons

  • May not be suitable for concrete.
  • Customer service is unimpressive.

Product Specs

Quantity 32 ounces
Removes Urine, odor
Application Method Leave-in
Safe On Floor, fabric
Manufacturer Shout

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Carbona Bio-Enzyme Stain Remover

Best Biodegradable Carpet Cleaner Formula for Pet Urine

This biodegradable formula works fast as it comes in contact with a stain. You also get a two-in-one brush to scrub the spot for optimal results.

The applicator consists of a soft brush that effectively cleans the carpet’s surface. The brush around the edges works its way deep inside the carpet fibers to remove any trace of the stain.

Pets won’t only go for a plush carpet. Some might feel more comfortable on the rug in the kitchen. But there’s no need to worry since you can use this product on multiple surfaces. This includes nylon, colorfast wool, upholstery, rayon, and blends.

Pet urine can become highly pungent when left, and it can quickly stink up the whole house. Thankfully, this enzyme-based foam neutralizes odors permanently to leave your home fresh and clean.

Pros

  • Neutralizes odors instead of just masking them.
  • Built-in brush helps with removing the stain gently.
  • Versatile product is suitable for multiple carpet and fabric types.
  • Removes various type of stains.
  • Safe to use around kids and pets.

Cons

  • Would effectively work for fresh stains.

Product Specs

Quantity 8.4 ounces
Removes Urine, pet mess
Application Method Scrub and rinse
Safe On Fabric
Manufacturer Carbona

Our Ratings

Stain Removal Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety for Pets
4 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Rejuvenate Carpet Stain & Odor Eliminator

Best for Multiple Stains Pet Urine Carpet Cleaner

If you’re looking for a cleaner that will effectively remove multiple types of stains and odor, this is it. This Rejuvenate spray is easy to use and acts fast as it eliminates stains.

Deep stains sometimes make a comeback even if it looked clean when you left it. Dealing with this can be very frustrating.

However, this formula contains surfactants, which are highly effective at cleaning (1). Tough stains such as red wine, urine, and feces are much easier to handle with products like this.

If you have a Rejuvenate spray mop, you can attach it too. If not, the scrubber is easy to use by hand and works efficiently on surfaces like carpet and upholstery.

Pros

  • Prevents stains from reappearing.
  • Easy to use due to the spray bottle.
  • Works on carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.
  • Kills odors and eliminates stains quickly.
  • Bio-enzymatic formula is excellent at tackling organic stains.

Cons

  • Instructions are quite confusing.
  • Leaked parcels were received by others.

Product Specs

Quantity 32 ounces
Removes Urine, feces, vomit, wine
Application Method Leave-in
Safe On Fabric, carpet, upholstery
Manufacturer United Industries

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Genesis 950 Concentrate

Best Carpet Cleaner Concentrate for Pet Urine

Some urine stains call for a potent concentrate that can handle the challenge.

Pet urine can develop a sour stench that can be impossible to get off a carpet. But, this formula effectively removes foul odors and the traces a stain leaves.

Your pet also won’t be returning to the area since all odor traces are removed from the carpet. The formula is safe to use on multiple types of surfaces inside and outside your house. You can even use it in your car.

There are no toxic ingredients that will put your children or pets in danger, so that you can use it at any time. Genesis provides easy instructions on how to dilute the product to suit the severity of the stain.

Pros

  • Long-lasting due to the 2.5-gallon concentrated formula.
  • Deodorizes foul pet stain odors.
  • Easy instructions for diluting the product.
  • Low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
  • Multi-purpose. Formula is suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, hard floors, cars, and more.

Cons

  • Strong smell that resembles nail polish remover; some customers disliked this.
  • Sometimes it takes a few attempts to obliterate the stain.

Product Specs

Quantity 2.5 gallons
Removes Urine, feces, vomit, grease, limescale
Application Method Require rinsing
Safe On Fabric, carpet, upholstery, kitchen, bathroom
Manufacturer Genesis 950

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4 / 5
Safety for Pets
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Hoover Paws & Claws Carpet Cleaning Formula

Best for Pet Stains and Odors In Carpets

We sure cannot guard our fur babies all the time and prevent them from messing with our carpet. However, the Stain Guard formula of this carpet cleaner from Hoover will help defend against future stains and keeps your carpet looking new and fresh.

The formula is enzyme-based and is, therefore, highly effective at removing stains and odors. You can use it to remove messes such as odors, urine, vomit, and feces. It works great in the car, on upholstery, and around the house.

Even after you’ve finished cleaning, the enzymes will keep working to remove deeply embedded traces of the stain.

It’s a concentrated product, so you do have to dilute it — Hoover provides thorough instructions on how to do so. Plus, you get 128 ounces, so it should last you through multiple accidents as you dilute when needed.

Pros

  • Stain Guard technology prevents future stains.
  • Enzyme-based concentrate keeps working even after you’ve finished cleaning.
  • Large bottle provides a long-lasting cleaner.
  • You can use it in multiple places, including your car.
  • Safe to use around children and pets.

Cons

  • Not as effective at deodorizing.
  • Some customers found the product’s scent to be unpleasant.
  • The packaging isn’t great; some come without a safety cap.

Product Specs

Quantity 128 ounces
Removes Pet messes, dirt, dust, odor
Application Method Leave-in
Safe On Carpet, upholstery, car interiors, stairs
Manufacturer Hoover

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Cleaner

Best Professional Strength Carpet Cleaner for Pet Urine

For stubborn urine stains, you need a reliable product. This professional strength formula acts fast as it comes in contact with stains.

It’s enzyme-activated and will eliminate spots from yellow urine, feces, vomit, and other organic matter. The enzymes will also continue to work until all organic matter is gone. This means it will keep going even after you’ve finished cleaning.

If you have pets and kids, it can be challenging to find a suitable product. This formula is safe to use around children and pets. It’s also safe on various surfaces and fabrics without leaving a residue.

Pros

  • Deep cleans carpets due to the professional strength.
  • Highly effective due to the enzyme-activated solution.
  • Safe to use on multiple types of carpet as well as hardwood and laminate.
  • You can use it in your laundry pre-soak cycle, too.
  • Easy to use in a handy spray bottle.

Cons

  • Can cause slight bleaching if not used correctly.
  • The product irritated many customers’ respiratory systems.

Product Specs

Quantity 32 ounces
Removes Urine, feces, vomit
Application Method Blot and air dry
Safe On Carpet, upholstery, car upholstery, hardwood, laminate, laundry
Manufacturer Rocco & Roxie Supply Co.

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

OdoBan Three-In-One Carpet Cleaner

Best Versatility Carpet Cleaner for Pet Urine

This three-in-one formula works as a pre-treatment for a sprayer or cleaning machine, a spot remover, and an extraction cleaner.

It’s a concentrate, so you’ll have to dilute it. A little goes a long way so that this popular product will last you through multiple pet cleanups. OdoBan claims it makes up to 64 gallons if appropriately used.

The formula is detergent-free and safe to use on carpets and upholstery. It’s also effective at removing dirt, soil, and urine.

You can get the cleaning done quickly by diluting the product in a spray bottle and treating accidents as they happen. The formula requires no rinsing and dries fast, so you won’t need to close the area off.

Pros

  • Long-lasting since a little goes a long way.
  • Detergent-free formula is safe for carpets and upholstery.
  • Recognized by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
  • Works as a pre-spray, a spot cleaner, and in extraction machines.
  • Fast-drying formula lets you have your room back quickly.

Cons

  • Not as effective at eliminating odors.

Product Specs

Quantity 1 gallon
Removes Urine, grease, vomit, blood, dirt, coffee, food
Application Method Diluted
Safe On Carpet, upholstery
Manufacturer OdoBan

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
3.5 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Rug Doctor Professional Pet Deep Cleaner

Best Carpet Shampoo for Pet Urine

When you need to deep clean a large area, this carpet shampoo by Rug Doctor is a suitable option.

The formula uses professional strength pro-enzymes that work fast and for a long time. The tiny enzymes will actually keep working for up to 24 hours after you’ve finished. This creates a very thorough clean, with some customers remarking that it worked better than professional-grade options.

You can breathe easy, too — your pets won’t be returning to the popular spots on the carpet anytime soon. The enzymes will eliminate any trace of the odor so your pet can’t find it.

One drawback is that you will need a carpet cleaning machine to use this product. However, you can rent these at your local hardware store.

Pros

  • Non-toxic and non-irritating formula.
  • SpotBlock protects your carpet from dirt and stains.
  • Excellent for large areas.
  • Enzymes will work for up to 24 hours.
  • Removes stains and odors using a triple-action formula.
  • Breaks down vomit, blood, drool, grass stains, and more.

Cons

  • Not good for spot cleaning.
  • You need a carpet cleaning machine to use this product.
  • It might take a few attempts to remove odor.

Product Specs

Quantity 96 ounces
Removes Urine, vomit, blood, dirt, hairball spots, saliva, dirt, paint
Application Method Carpet cleaning machine
Safe On Carpet
Manufacturer Rug Doctor

Our Ratings

Odor Removal Effectiveness
4 / 5
Stain Removal Effectiveness
4.5 / 5
Safety for Pets
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Quantity Removes Application Method Safe On
Smiling Paws Pets Stain Eliminator Overall 32 oz Urine, pet messes, odors Not specified Carpets, rugs, upholstery, tiles, concrete, hardwood
Shout Carpet Urine Destroyer Oxy-Based 32 oz Urine, odor Leave-in Floor, fabric
Carbona Stain Scrubber Biodegradable 8.4 oz Urine, pet mess Scrub and rinse Fabric
Rejuvenate Carpet Stain & Odor Eliminator For Multiple Stains 32 oz Urine, feces, vomit, wine Leave-in Fabric, carpet, upholstery
Genesis 950 Concentrate Concentrate 2.5 gal. Pet messes, vomit, grease, limescale Require rinsing Fabric, carpet, upholstery, bathroom
Hoover Paws & Claws Pet Stains and Odors 128 oz Pet messes, dirt, dust, odor Leave-in Carpet, upholstery, car interior, stairs
Rocco & Roxie Professional Professional Strength 32 oz Urine, feces, vomit Blot and air dry Carpet, upholstery, floor, laundry
OdoBan 3-In-1 Carpet Cleaner Versatility 1 gallon Pet messes, grease, blood, coffee Diluted Carpet, upholstery
Rug Doctor Pet Deep Cleaner Carpet Shampoo 96 oz Pet messes, blood, hairball, saliva Carpet cleaning machine Carpet

Buying Guide

When choosing a product to clean urine from carpet, consider the following criteria:

Carpet Material

Carpets aren’t all alike, and this is important to remember. Common types of carpet fibers include nylon, polypropylene, polyester, and wool. Do you know which one yours is?

Keep In Mind

Using harsh chemicals or bleaching agents can cause severe damage to the fibers. Carpet cleaners are milder but contain stain-fighting ingredients such as enzymes.

Before purchasing a product, make sure it’s safe for your carpet fiber type. If you’re unsure of the material of your carpet, do a spot test in an inconspicuous area. Allow the spot test to work as directed and dry thoroughly before determining if it’s safe.

Reaction Time

The reaction time of a carpet cleaner starts when the product is first applied and finishes when it’s either rinsed off or dried.

So if your carpet is in a high-traffic area, you have to consider how long it needs to sit. It can be challenging to use a product that requires you to keep the area clear for long, especially if you have children and pets running around.

Most cleaners require around five minutes of reaction time. Others will work straight away and can be removed within minutes. However, these might also need a few tries to get the stain out completely.

Efficiency

When choosing a product, you, of course, want one that works effectively. However, some cleaners require that you use a significant amount of product and effort to get the stain out.

This can be time-consuming, and a waste of money since you will run out of product quickly.

Be careful when dealing with urine on carpets. Using too much product can soak the stain into the carpet pad. The odor will then be even more challenging to remove.

Most large carpets have a pad to protect the floor beneath. However, the pad acts similar to a sponge. It soaks up any fluid in contact with it — including urine.

Remove Quickly

If your carpet pad has absorbed the stain, it will be hard to remove, but it can also cause mold. Mold thrives in the dark, warm and moist environment that the pad creates, which can put your family’s health at risk (2).

To avoid a potentially stinky situation, follow the instructions and only use what’s needed. Then repeat the treatment if the stain isn’t completely extracted.

Versatility

Pets will sometimes find other places — besides the carpet — to go to the bathroom. So having a product that you can use on multiple surfaces may save you money and time.

Because carpet cleaners generally don’t contain harsh chemicals, they’re safe to use on other surfaces. However, you should always read the directions first.

Type

There are several types of carpet cleaners you can choose from. All have different application methods and require various cleaning methods:

  • Foam: These are ready to use and often come with a built-in applicator to help remove the stain. Foam does need some manual effort since you have to work it into the carpet. Some also require a longer reaction time.
  • Powder: This variation is simple to use and only requires that you sprinkle it on the stain without scrubbing. After the instructed waiting time, you can vacuum the area. These aren’t as effective on tough stains but can remove odors efficiently.
  • Spray: Spray cleaners are the most commonly used. They enable you to target smaller spots and are usually suitable for upholstery. Sprays penetrate carpet fibers quickly but can be difficult to use in large areas.
  • Shampoo: This type of cleaning is only necessary when cleaning a large area. Most shampoos require a particular machine or equipment but are highly effective.

For urine stains, we prefer to use either foam or sprays. These are easy to use and effectively tackle urine odors and stains.

Quick Guide to Ingredients

Carpet cleaners come in many different formulas, but it’s crucial to choose the right one. Active ingredients include enzymes and are oxy-based. These are also gentle on carpets and easy to use.

Enzymes

Cleaners containing enzymes are the most effective at removing organic matters such as urine and feces. This is because enzymes are chemicals that work to help good bacteria feed on other (harmful) bacteria until there’s nothing left. They then die (3).

When using this type of cleaner, you won’t have to rinse or mop the area afterward. Simply vacuum the area once it’s thoroughly dried. It’s also safe to use on various surfaces such as hard floors, rugs, and upholstery.

Another reason why we like to use enzymes for pet urine is that they’re non-toxic. You can easily use them in a busy family home without compromising your family’s health.

Enzymatic cleaners are available as concentrates and pre-diluted. Pre-diluted cleaners are usually called enzyme-based, so this is what you should be looking for.

Oxygen-Based Cleaners

Oxygen cleaners are activated by oxygen. When the formula comes in contact with the stain and surrounding air, it creates bubbles. These bubbles lift and dissolve molecules in the stain so you can easily wipe it away.

Some oxygen-based cleaners also contain hydrogen peroxide. This is highly effective against old stains but can lighten the surface if not used properly.

Warning

Use hydrogen peroxide with caution. Ensure you follow the instructions on the product since hydrogen peroxide can be corrosive (4).

Other oxygen-based cleaners consist of powders such as sodium percarbonate or perborate. These cleaners are highly effective disinfectants (5). They are commonly used instead of chemical disinfectants. Plus, they’re excellent at removing odors.

Oxygen-based cleaners are very common in foaming formulas, but you can also find them as sprays and powders.

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FAQs

Will Steam Cleaning Get Rid of Pet Urine?

Steam cleaning will get rid of pet urine, provided you use a cleaning agent suitable for your floor type. It also removes urine odors from your floors. Use white vinegar and water to spray the urine stain, wait while it dries, and then use the steam cleaner.

How Long Does Urine Smell Last In Carpet?

Urine smell can last five or six years on carpet if left untreated. The best way to deal with urine is to clean it up before it dries to remove the staining and odor.

How Do You Get a Dried Urine Smell Out of Carpet?

The best way to get dried urine smells out of carpet is to use white vinegar and water applied liberally to the stain. Dab it dry with a paper towel, and then apply hydrogen peroxide to the spot to neutralize the odor.

Does Vinegar Get Rid of Urine Smell In Carpet?

Vinegar does get rid of urine smells on carpet when applied with water. Mix in baking soda to add potency to the cleaning formula or use hydrogen peroxide.

How Do You Keep Pet Stains From Coming Back?

The best way to keep pet stains from coming back is to clean the area with detergent or white vinegar. Stop the carpet from getting wet, and always deal with spills as they happen.


The Verdict

We know all too well how tricky getting pet urine out of the carpet is. Urine will quickly develop a foul odor, and it can ruin a carpet if left. So, you need to act fast once you notice the urine.

When finding the best carpet cleaners for pet urine, consider your carpets’ fibers. We also prefer to go for non-toxic products such as enzyme- or oxygen-based ones.

If you’re often dealing with accidents at home, don’t sell your pet. Just buy one of these products!

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About the Author

Amy Anthony

Amy Anthony is a cleaning expert, author, and contributing writer for Oh So Spotless, a leading online resource for all things related to cleaning, organizing, and maintaining a spotless home. With over 15 years of experience in the cleaning industry, Amy has gained extensive knowledge and expertise that have made her a trusted authority on best practices, efficient techniques, and innovative cleaning solutions.