Home cleaning tips for pet problems - Part 2
Do NOT use any other kind of cleaner before using an enzyme cleaner. The ingredients in regular cleaners may react negatively with an enzyme cleaner preventing it from being effective. Before you use any kind of cleaner, always do a test spot on the material to be cleaned (some cleaners will stain). Thoroughly soak the soiled area with the enzyme cleaner.
It’s very important to thoroughly saturate the area! Let the product soak for a few minutes, then blot up any excess cleaner with a clean cloth. Let the spot dry completely before allowing your pet back in the area. It is during the drying process that the bacteria in the urine will be broken down and the odor removed. Once the area is dry, do a smell check. If you still smell urine, treat the area again.
Sometimes it can be difficult to locate the source of the urine smell, especially when dealing with old stains. In this case a black light can be your key to finding the source of the smell. Urine stains that can’t be seen by the naked eye will fluoresce under a black light.
The same process can be used to remove the odors left behind from faeces. Remove all faeces from the soiled area using just water. Soak the affected area with an enzyme cleaner and allow to dry.
If the smell has been removed, but a stain still exists after using an enzyme cleaner, then a regular cleaner can be used. Avoid cleaners that are highly acidic, or that leave a residual ammonia odour. These two types of cleaners can mimic the smells of urine and actually encourage your pet to once again relieve himself in the soiled area.
A great neutral cleaner is plain white vinegar. It can be used full strength, or diluted 50/50 with hot water. It can be used to scrub carpets, upholstery, or to mop floors and will also help neutralize odours. Other neutral detergents or cleaners can also be used.
Next time: Procrastination. The enemy of home cleaning.
Tags: Cleaning Tips, pets