Has your best friend got that guilty look on his face? Find out how to clean dog urine stains from your couch cushions the easy way.
At some point in your life as a pet owner, the time will inevitably come when you have to clean dog urine off the couch cushions. Pooches are generally okay with their bathroom habits, but they’re not perfect. And so when you get dog pee on the couch, you need to be ready. The same is true for people who host guests who bring their dogs with them. You need to be prepared to clean up if your pet has an accident on your upholstery. Dogs can urinate on your couch cushions for all sorts of reasons. If they’re older, they may be a little incontinent from time to time. Younger dogs can be inconsistent with their bathroom habits, as they may not know when they need to go outside. Sometimes, a sudden change in environment, such as moving house or an illness, can trigger problems.
To stop stains from setting in and causing long-term damage to your couch, it’s crucial to act quickly and use the right cleaning methods as soon as an accident happens.
Before applying any cleaning solutions, it is important to check the cleaning label on the couch, as some fabrics are more sensitive and require specific methods to avoid damage. Fortunately, even if your dogs are peeing on your couch cushions, there’s no need to panic. In this step-by-step guide, we show you how to easily and quickly deal with the problem to keep your furniture smelling fresh and beautiful. Take a look below.
How To Clean Dog Urine From a Couch: Step-By-Step
Dog urine on your couch cushions seems like a disaster. For many people, it’s a reason to dump their sofa in the trash and start over. But you don’t have to take such drastic action. Just like when children create a mess, it’s easy to clean up and move on with your life. It’s just a question of know-how. By following these steps, you can clean properly and prevent lingering stains and odours.
Step 1: Blot The Urine
The first step is to blot the urine with an absorbent material that is readily available, such as a paper towel. Many people use paper towels or a washable rag for this step. But, in general, it doesn’t matter a great deal which method you use, so long as you do something that draws as much moisture away from your towels as possible. Blotting is more effective than scrubbing, as it prevents the urine from spreading further into the fabric. If you happen to have a microfibre cloth with you, use that first. Microfibre cloths create a positive charge (thanks to the way manufacturers arrange their fibres), which attracts water to the material due to the charge they generate. This way, you can often suck excess liquid out of your couch cushions, making the job of cleaning them up later significantly easier. You can also try using a wet/dry vacuum. These use the power of suction to draw liquids away from fabrics. However, you’ll need to carefully clean the cylinder afterwards to prevent any odours from lingering.
After absorbing as much moisture as possible, be sure to blot dry the area to help prevent further staining or damage.
Step 2: Spray And Reblot
The next step is to spray and reblot the site of the urine stain. Start by using a regular spray bottle and then spray clean water onto the site. Then use your cloth or towels to blot it dry again. You can repeat this step several times if you wish. The purpose of re-wetting the stain is to ensure that you remove as many odour-producing particles from the fabric as possible. This process also helps lift surface stains before they can penetrate deeper into the fabric. However, be cautious not to over-wet the stain, as this can push the urine deeper into the fabric, making it harder to clean. By respraying the affected site, you can dilute the remaining particles in the fabric and then draw them out as you blot.
Step 3: Create A Cleaning Solution
Blotting and reblotting can remove a vast quantity of urine stains. But no matter how many times you repeat the process, some particles will remain. If you don’t treat these, they will eventually begin to create unpleasant smells. Thus, it would help if you made a stain cleaning solution. Here’s what you need to:
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Fill a bowl with half a cup of warm water (about 125 ml)
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Add half a cup (125 ml) of plain white vinegar
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Add a quarter of a cup (70 ml) of dish soap
For enhanced scent and additional antimicrobial benefits, you can also add a few drops of lemon essential oil to the mixture.
Mixing these ingredients should create a bubbly, frothy (and quite pungent) mixture. If you’re worried about vinegar leaving a lingering smell, don’t. Once it evaporates, no smell particles remain. So even if you spill vinegar on your couch cushions, the odour will leave them once it dries. Vinegar is a special chemical because it reacts with many of the odour-causing compounds in dog urine. As it penetrates upholstery, it causes reactions that lead to the production of smell-free byproducts. It also destroys any lingering bacteria in the stain (great if it has been there for some time).
Step 4: Spread The Cleaning Solution Over The Affected Area
You can apply your cleaning solution using a dry cloth. As you spread it, it will generate foam. Don’t worry about the foam for now. Instead, focus on working the solution into the fabric. The goal is to get it to contact any remaining pee stuck deep within the material. Some people like to work the foam into their cushions using a toothbrush. Toothbrush bristles are soft, so they don’t damage fibres in the upholstery. Additionally, the gentle brushing action agitates the cleaning solution, causing it to penetrate deeper and deeper. You should notice that it starts to create foam as you apply the solution and rub it in. It foams due to the presence of foaming agents in the dish soap. Although manufacturers typically include these agents for effect, they can help tremendously when cleaning up dog urine. As you brush, you’ll see discoloured foam rising out of the fabric, bringing any stains with it.
After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe away any remaining soap suds or residue, making sure not to oversaturate the fabric.
Step 5: Remove Dirty Foam With A Spatula
After a while, you'll have enough foam to remove with a spatula (or another gentle tool with a flat surface). Run the spatula through the excess soap and discard the residue. If the option is available to you, you can try squeezing the soap out of the fabric. Don't worry if a small amount remains. You can deal with it later.
Step 6: Spray With White Vinegar
Vinegar makes a great cleaner because it is high in acetic acid. The acid is so powerful that it can dissolve dirt, grease, and mineral deposits - a component of dog pee. It also kills bacteria, making it a great option for anyone wanting to clean up a dog mess. Start by filling a spray bottle with pure vinegar. Then spray it directly only on the affected site. Don’t worry - it won’t damage your upholstery even if you apply it straight. Interestingly, many store-bought cleaners use acetic acid in their formulations because it is both mild and effective. It is not a good idea to use other forms of vinegar, such as balsamic, as they contain compounds that can cause stains. As before, let the vinegar dry into the fabric. This time, don’t attempt to wipe it up. As it penetrates the layers of the fabric, it will clean dog urine lower down by reacting with mineral salts that it contains, which often form invisible crystals. These invisible crystals can cause lingering odours if not properly treated. Be aware that high temperatures or moisture can reactivate urine crystals in upholstery, releasing odours, so proper drying is essential.
Step 7: Sprinkle Baking Soda Onto The Area
The second to last step is to sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto the affected site. Baking soda is a powerful neutralising and drying agent. Its chemical properties mean that it can restore both acid and alkaline substances to regular pH - the main secret behind its extraordinary ability to remove odours. Baking soda is particularly effective at removing urine smell from couch cushions, as it neutralises the odour and helps eliminate it from the fabric. Unlike perfumes, it doesn’t mask unpleasant smells; it changes their chemical properties to prevent them from being detected altogether. Baking soda is also a drying agent. Because it reacts so powerfully with vinegar, it helps draw it out of the material, bringing it to the surface. As it does this, the couch cushions begin to dry out again. When you mix baking soda with vinegar, the results can be even more dramatic - the two chemicals release H and OH to form harmless water. So the baking soda neutralises the acid, creating harmless byproducts in the process. Please note that baking soda and baking powder are not the same thing, so you shouldn’t use them interchangeably. When cleaning, always use baking soda, as it contains the necessary chemicals to neutralise vinegar and transform it into water again.
Step 8: Allow Baking Soda To Dry And Vacuum
The last step is to allow the baking soda to dry on the couch naturally and vacuum it up. Typically, it takes about two hours to completely dry. Allowing the cleaned area to air dry is crucial to prevent setting the stain into the fabric. It’ll continue to fight odour-causing compounds, reacting with them and eliminating them from the fabric during this time. When it is completely dry, you can remove it with a vacuum, as you would any other debris on your sofa. This method works best for fresh stains, but for older or more stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process. And there you have it: the best way to remove fresh dog urine from couch cushions.
How To Remove Old Dog Urine From Couch Cushions
If you have older dog stains on your cushions that you only notice a couple of days (or weeks) later, you are likely dealing with dried stains and stubborn pee stains. These can be much more challenging to remove and often result in a persistent dog urine smell if not treated properly. Simple cleaning with vinegar and baking powder may not work. Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Create The Cleaning Solution
You will need something a little more powerful than regular vinegar and baking soda for old, dried-on stains. Here’s a formulation you could try:
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300 ml hydrogen peroxide pure cleaning fluid
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45 ml baking soda
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A few drops of dish soap
For particularly stubborn stains, some of the best urine removers available commercially can also be used to effectively eliminate both stains and odours.
Once you have the mixture, pour it into a spray bottle.
Step 2: Test The Fabric
Because hydrogen peroxide is a highly reactive compound, you’ll need to test the spray first to see how it reacts with the fabric. Start by spraying it on an inconspicuous area of your sofa and see whether it discolours or alters the fabric in any way. If it does, you’ll want to use the method for cleaning dog urine described in the previous section. For delicate fabrics, consider using a solvent treatment as specified on the care label, as this can be a safer alternative for effective stain removal. If not, proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Spray Onto The Affected Area And Allow To Dry
If you’re confident that you won't damage the fabric, spray the solution onto the affected area and then allow it to dry. You should notice that after about an hour or so, the stain begins to look faded. If it doesn’t disappear entirely, wait for it to dry completely and then reapply the spray. For tough urine problems, multiple applications may be necessary to achieve complete removal. The stain should fade a little more each time you spray it.
Step 4: Blot The Solution
Once the stain disappears, you can remove the cleaning agent by blotting the area with a damp cloth. Using a wet microfibre cloth will draw any remaining moisture in the fabric back out again, mixing with the cleaning fluid and detergent residue. You may notice that the resulting residues are actually quite dirty from all the grease and grime on your cushions. In some cases, you may not be able to remove the stain from your sofas, beanbags and other places where dogs might urinate. Many commercial cleaning products claim to be effective at removing stubborn urine stains and odours, but results can vary. In these situations, hiring out professional cleaners is an option. However, it is not always strictly necessary, especially if you follow the methods laid out above.
Cleaning Different Types of Couch Fabric
When it comes to removing dog urine from your couch, the type of couch fabric you have makes a big difference in how you should approach cleaning. Each material reacts differently to cleaning solutions, so it’s important to tailor your method to avoid damaging your furniture while effectively tackling urine stains and odours.
For suede couches, always use a gentle cleaning product specifically designed for suede. Avoid using excessive water, as suede is highly sensitive and can develop water spots or become damaged if it gets too wet. Instead, blot the dog urine with a dry, absorbent cloth and use a suede-safe cleaner to treat the urine stain. Let the area air dry completely before using the couch again.
Microfiber couches are a bit more forgiving, but you should still be cautious. A mixture of white vinegar and water can be effective for removing urine stains and neutralising odours, but always perform a spot test on a hidden area of the couch fabric first. This ensures the solution won’t cause discolouration or damage. Gently blot the affected area and avoid scrubbing, which can push the dog urine deeper into the fibres.
Leather couches require special care. Never use harsh chemicals or too much water, as these can strip the leather’s natural oils and cause cracking or discolouration. Instead, use a leather-specific cleaner to remove urine stains gently. After cleaning, condition the leather to keep it supple and protected.
For standard fabric couches, a combination of baking soda and white vinegar can help lift urine stains and eliminate odours. Again, always spot test your cleaning solution before applying it to the entire affected area. Sprinkle baking soda over the urine stain, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up to help absorb any remaining moisture and odour.
By adapting your cleaning process to your couch’s fabric, you can safely and effectively remove dog urine, keeping your furniture looking and smelling fresh.
Preventing Future Accidents
The best way to deal with urine stains is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Dog owners can take several proactive steps to prevent their dogs from urinating on the couch and keep their furniture free from dog urine stains.
Start by ensuring your dog has regular potty breaks throughout the day. Consistent routines help dogs understand when and where it’s appropriate to relieve themselves. Training your dog to pee outside, using positive reinforcement and rewards, can significantly reduce the likelihood of indoor accidents.
If your dog tends to have accidents in specific areas, consider placing dog pee pads or newspapers nearby. These absorbent materials make cleanup easier and help protect your couch from urine stains. Over time, you can gradually move the pads closer to the door to encourage your dog to use the outside area.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your couch are also important. By promptly addressing any small spills or accidents, you can prevent urine stains and odours from setting in. For dog owners, investing in washable couch covers or throws can provide an extra layer of protection and make it easier to keep your furniture clean.
By combining training, routine, and a few practical tools, you can significantly reduce the risk of dog pee accidents and keep your couch looking its best.
Professional Couch Cleaning Services
Sometimes, even the best home remedies aren’t enough to tackle tough urine stains or persistent dog urine odours. In these cases, professional couch cleaning services can be a game-changer for dog owners struggling with stubborn urine stains and lingering smells.
Professional cleaners use specialised equipment and powerful, pet-safe cleaning solutions to deep clean your couch, targeting embedded dog urine and neutralising odours at the source. Many companies offer treatments specifically designed for pet stains, ensuring that even the most challenging urine stain is thoroughly addressed.
When choosing a professional service, look for companies that use eco-friendly and non-toxic products to keep your home safe for both pets and people. Some services, like Zerorez, offer advanced pet odour treatments that break down uric acid crystals and remove even the toughest dog urine smells.
Professional couch cleaning is especially helpful if you’ve tried multiple DIY methods and still notice a lingering urine odour or visible stain. These experts can restore your couch to a fresh, clean state, saving you the cost and hassle of replacing your furniture.
For dog owners who want peace of mind and a truly clean couch, investing in professional cleaning services is a smart solution for removing urine stains and keeping your home fresh and inviting.
How To Clean Dog Urine: The Bottom Line
Dogs will occasionally pee where they shouldn’t, but it needn’t spell disaster for your upholstery. To remove dog pee and other pet stains, both homemade remedies and commercial urine removers can be effective, but using an enzyme cleaner or enzymatic cleaners is often the best choice for breaking down organic stains and odours. Enzyme cleaners work by using enzymes and bacteria to break down urine and greasy stains, making them much more effective than regular cleaning methods, which may only mask the odour or push the stain deeper into the couch's fabric.
Enzymatic cleaners are also highly effective for cat urine, which can be particularly stubborn and difficult to remove. It's essential to select the appropriate method for your couch's fabric—some materials, such as leather, require specialised care and specific cleaning solutions to prevent damage. For certain materials, such as microfiber, rubbing alcohol can be used to clean urine and neutralise odours, while a steam cleaner may be an option for deep cleaning. However, always test on a small area first to avoid damaging the fabric.
Pets may return to the same spot if urine crystals are not fully removed, as heat or moisture can reactivate the odour and attract them back. Therefore, to clean urine effectively and prevent repeat accidents, it's essential to use the right products and techniques for the specific type of stain and fabric. Clean urine thoroughly to ensure your upholstery stays fresh and odour-free.
The biggest risk with dog urine is the lingering smell, so any cleaning formulation you concoct must contain antibacterial agents. (White vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are the two examples that we list here). If you decide to experiment by making your own cleaning solutions, be sure to avoid using any chemicals containing bleaching agents. Bleach is great for killing germs in your toilet. But if you apply it to upholstery, you risk discolouring the material and permanently damaging your seating. New urine stains are easy to find and clean. However, older ones can be more difficult. If you’re struggling to identify the source of smells emanating from your sofa, you can use a UV urine-finder - something that a lot of dog owners invest in when they get a pup. This simple light bounces off dog urine patches and reflects in visible light, allowing you to see it.
