Understanding Pet Messes
Pet accidents aren't just surface problems. Urine, in particular, can soak through carpet, into the padding, and even reach the subfloor. This is why surface cleaning often fails—you're only treating part of the problem.
The key to successful deep cleaning is understanding what you're dealing with and using the right approach for each situation.
Fresh Accidents: Act Fast
The sooner you address a mess, the easier it is to clean. Here's the immediate response protocol:
For Urine
- Blot (don't rub) with paper towels or a clean cloth. Stand on the towels to absorb as much as possible.
- Apply an enzyme cleaner liberally—you want it to reach everywhere the urine went.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it sit for 10-15 minutes (or longer for larger messes).
- Blot dry and allow to air dry completely.
- Repeat if any odor remains.
For Solid Waste
- Remove solids with paper towels or a plastic bag (scoop, don't smear).