If you have a furry feline friend who occasionally marks their territory, you might find yourself wondering how to get rid of cat pee stains and odors from wood surfaces. Cats urinate for various reasons, whether it’s a change in their routine or a health issue. As a cat owner, it’s important to know how to tackle these accidents effectively and keep your home fresh and clean. In this guide, we will show you step-by-step how to remove cat urine from hardwood floors and furniture, leaving no trace of the unpleasant smell behind.
How to Get Cat Pee Out of Hardwood Floors
Step 1: Act Quickly
Dealing with urine stains isn’t an easy task, whether it’s cat urine or any other pet’s. The key is to take action immediately after the accident happens. Grab a bunch of paper towels or a sponge and soak up as much of the urine as possible. The goal is to remove as much liquid as you can to prevent the stain from seeping into the wood.
Step 2: Choose A Cleaning Solution
For the best results, consider using a professional enzymatic cleaner specifically designed to remove urine odors. These cleaners have odor-reducing qualities that can effectively eliminate the smell from your hardwood floors. If you don’t have enzymatic cleaners available, you can try using hydrogen peroxide or a vinegar-based solution. Mix 3 milliliters of hydrogen peroxide with a liter of water, or create a solution with equal parts vinegar and water, adding a quarter cup of baking soda.
Step 3: Clean
Apply the chosen cleaning solution to the stained area using a cloth or spray bottle. Follow the instructions on the bottle if you’re using a commercial cleaner. If you’re using hydrogen peroxide, soak the affected area and cover it with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation. For the vinegar solution, spray it onto the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes before wiping it with a damp cloth.
Step 4: Rinse, Dry & Repeat
After cleaning, rinse the area with minimal water using a cloth or spray bottle. Be careful not to use too much water, as it can damage the quality and appearance of your hardwood floors. Allow the area to dry thoroughly. You can use towels to remove any residual moisture or speed up the drying process by using a fan or opening windows. Repeat the cleaning process if necessary.
How to Remove Old Cat Urine from Hardwood Floors
Step 1: Spot Clean
If you didn’t catch the urine accident right away or if the stain has set over time, you’ll need to take a different approach. Clean the stained area as you normally would and let it dry before proceeding.
Step 2: Choose A Cleaning Solution & Apply
Consider using a professional enzymatic cleaner or diluted hydrogen peroxide for older stains. If you’re concerned about hydrogen peroxide potentially discoloring your floors, you can try a baking soda and vinegar solution. Sprinkle baking soda on the stain, then pour a mixture of two cups of water and half a cup of vinegar over the baking soda.
Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution
For the hydrogen peroxide approach, cover the old stain with the cleaning solution or place a soaked towel over it. Cover the area with plastic wrap to prevent evaporation and let it soak for at least an hour. Wipe the area with a clean cloth and repeat the process if necessary. For the baking soda and vinegar method, let the solution sit on the stain for about 15 minutes before wiping it with a clean, damp cloth.
How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of Hardwood
Step 1: Clean The Area
Sometimes, eliminating the lingering smell of cat urine requires a targeted approach. Start by cleaning the area where the smell is coming from using a wood cleaner specifically designed for this purpose.
Step 2: Reinforce the Cleaning Process
If a simple clean-up didn’t completely get rid of the odor, you’ll need a more powerful solution. Enzymatic cleaners or diluted hydrogen peroxide are your best options for removing cat pee smells from wood. Spray the cleaning solution on the affected area and let it soak for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Wipe & Rinse
After letting the cleaner soak, wipe the area with a clean cloth and rinse it thoroughly. Use minimal water during the rinsing process to avoid damaging the wood. You can also use a spray bottle to control the amount of water used.
Step 4: Soak
If the smell persists, allow the cleaner to soak into the stained area. Apply the cleaning solution and cover the furniture or floor with plastic wrap. Let it soak for a day or longer, reapplying the cleaner as needed. Alternatively, soak a towel in the cleaner and place it on the stain before covering it with plastic wrap. Once the odors have been eliminated, wipe any residual cleaner off and gently rinse the area if necessary.
Step 5: Sand
If the urine smell still lingers, you may need to consider sanding the stained area. Rent a sander appropriate for your specific needs, such as a floor sander or a drum sander for deeper sanding. Sanding can effectively remove surface or deep stains, but it’s essential to seek professional assistance if you’re unsure about using a drum sander to avoid damaging your floorboards.
Conclusion
Cat urine stains and odors can be challenging to deal with, but armed with the right methods, you can eliminate them effectively. By acting quickly, choosing the appropriate cleaning solution, and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your wooden floors and furniture remain fresh and clean. Enjoy the company of your furry friend without worrying about unwanted pet accidents.