Pet owners know that accidents happen and that it’s not always easy to get rid of pet-related messes. When it comes to getting dog urine smell out of hardwood floors, it can seem like a daunting task. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to tackle this problem and get your floors looking and smelling great again in no time.
Clean Up Any Visible Urine Spots Immediately
The first step in getting rid of the smell of dog urine is to clean up any visible urine spots. If the urine is still wet, use some paper towels to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Once the urine has been soaked up, use a few drops of mild detergent and some warm water to wipe away the remaining residue. If the area is still very smelly, you can use a mixture of white vinegar and water to help neutralize the odor.
Use An Enzyme-Based Cleaner
Once all the visible urine has been cleaned up, it’s time to use an enzyme-based cleaner. These cleaners work by breaking down the proteins that are in the urine, which helps to eliminate the smell. Make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle to ensure that the cleaner is used correctly. It’s important to allow the cleaner to work for at least 10 minutes before wiping it away. Once the cleaner has been wiped away, you may need to repeat the process if the smell is still present.
Deodorize The Area
Once the urine has been cleaned up and the enzyme-based cleaner has been used, it’s time to deodorize the area. One way to do this is to sprinkle some baking soda over the affected area and allow it to sit for a few hours. This will help to absorb any remaining odors. Once the baking soda has been left for a few hours, use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the powder. You may need to repeat this process a few times to completely get rid of the smell.
Steam Clean Your Floors
Steam cleaning your hardwood floors is an effective way to get rid of any remaining odors. This can be done by renting a steam cleaner and following the instructions provided. Make sure to use a gentle cleaner and pay special attention to the affected areas. Once the steam cleaning has been completed, you can use a fan to help the floors dry faster and prevent any further damage.
Reapply The Finish
If the urine has caused the finish on your hardwood floors to come off, you may need to reapply the finish. This is best done by a professional, as it requires the use of specialized equipment. The professional will sand down the affected areas, apply the new finish, and then apply a sealant to protect the floors.
Preventative Measures
Once you have successfully eliminated the smell of urine from your hardwood floors, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid the same issue in the future. Consider placing absorbent mats by any doors that your pet may use to come in and out of the house. You can also try using a pet repellent spray on the floors to discourage your pet from urinating in the same spot again. Lastly, make sure to clean up any accidents as soon as possible, as this will help to reduce the smell and prevent any permanent damage to the floors.
Related Posts
