Dealing with pet accidents is an inevitable part of being a pet parent. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, accidents can happen, and they often do! One of the most challenging situations is dealing with diarrhea or runny poop on your precious carpet. But worry not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through two effective and simple methods to get that nasty mess out of your carpet and leave it looking and smelling fresh. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cleaning!
When you find a “surprise” on your carpet in the first place remove the animal from the “scene of the crime” that it did not make more trouble. And only then proceed to remove the stain.
What You’ll Need:
- Paper towels or clean rags
- Baking soda or cornstarch
- White vinegar
- A spray bottle
- A soft-bristle brush
- Vacuum cleaner
- Warm water
- Gloves (to protect your hands)
- A face mask (to avoid inhaling any particles)
- A fan or open windows (to ventilate the area)
Method 1: Using Baking Soda or Cornstarch
Step 1: Remove the Excess Firstly, don your gloves, and try to remove as much of the mess as possible using paper towels or clean rags. Be gentle and try not to rub, as this can push the stain deeper into the carpet fibers.
Step 2: Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch Generously sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the affected area. These natural absorbents will help to draw out the moisture and neutralize the odor. Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes or until it has completely dried.
Step 3: Vacuum It Up Once the baking soda or cornstarch has dried, use your vacuum cleaner to remove the powder along with the absorbed moisture and odor. Make sure your vacuum cleaner is on the right setting to avoid damaging your carpet.
Step 4: Treat Any Remaining Stains If there’s any stain remaining, mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Apply this mixture to the stain and gently scrub using a soft-bristle brush. Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove the soap mixture, and then pat dry.
Method 2: Using Vinegar
Step 1: Create a Vinegar Solution In a spray bottle, mix a solution of one part white vinegar and one part warm water. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and stain remover, making it perfect for this task.
Step 2: Apply the Solution Spray the vinegar solution generously onto the stained area. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the stain and neutralize the odor.
Step 3: Blot the Stain Using a clean cloth or paper towels, blot the stained area to remove the vinegar solution along with the stain. Be sure to work from the outside of the stain towards the center to prevent spreading.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry Rinse the area with a cloth dampened in cold water, and blot dry. You can use a fan or open the windows to help speed up the drying process.
Attention!!! After successful cleaning, be sure to spritz the affected area of the carpet with lemon juice, this will help to finally get rid of the odor. This means your pet will no longer choose this area as its toilet.
Commercially Suitable Cleaning Products:
- Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator
- Bissell Pet Stain & Odor Remover
- Arm & Hammer Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator
Conclusion
Dealing with pet accidents on carpets can be frustrating, but with the right tools and techniques, you can get your carpet looking and smelling fresh again. Whether you choose the baking soda method or the vinegar method, patience and persistence are key. Remember to always test a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet before applying any cleaning solutions to ensure there is no damage or discoloration.
