How to Get Old Human Urine Smell Out of Carpet

Dealing with old human urine stains and odors in carpet can be frustrating and embarrassing. Whether caused by accidents, health issues, or potty training mishaps, the smell of human urine can linger in carpet fibers, becoming harder to remove as time passes. With the right methods and techniques, you can effectively eliminate both the stain and the unpleasant odor from your carpets.

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Why Human Urine Smell Lingers in Carpet

Human urine contains uric acid, proteins, salts, and bacteria. Once urine penetrates carpet fibers and dries, it leaves behind uric acid crystals that are difficult to clean with standard household cleaners. These crystals can rehydrate with humidity, reactivating the smell over time.

Understanding why human urine odors persist is crucial for applying the right cleaning methods that break down these compounds and eliminate the odor at its source.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Old Human Urine Smell from Carpet

Step 1: Identify the Stained Area

Before cleaning, you need to locate the exact spot where the old urine stain is present. With older stains, this can be tricky, as discoloration may have faded, but the smell persists. You can use a UV light (blacklight) to detect old urine stains, as the urine will glow under this light.

Tools You Need:

• UV light/blacklight to detect hidden stains.
• Chalk or tape to mark the stained areas for treatment.

Step 2: Blot and Rinse the Stain

If you suspect the urine stain is still slightly wet, its important to blot the area using a clean towel or paper towels. Avoid rubbing, as it could push the urine deeper into the carpet fibers. If the stain is completely dry, rinsing the area with clean water is recommended to help lift some of the dried residue from the carpet.

Tip: Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract as much liquid as possible, especially if youve rinsed the area.

Step 3: Apply an Enzymatic Cleaner

Enzymatic cleaners are highly effective for breaking down the uric acid crystals left behind by human urine. These cleaners contain enzymes that digest the organic compounds in the urine, neutralizing the smell and removing the stain.

Thoroughly saturate the stained area with an enzymatic cleaner and allow it to sit for the recommended time (usually between 15 minutes to several hours).

Why Use Enzymatic Cleaners?

• They break down uric acid, which ordinary cleaners cannot dissolve.
• They neutralize the bacteria responsible for the unpleasant odor.

Step 4: Use a Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution for Persistent Smells

If the odor persists after enzymatic treatment, a natural homemade solution using vinegar and baking soda can further help. Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in urine, while baking soda absorbs and eliminates odors.

Instructions

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the vinegar solution over the urine-stained area.
3. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the wet vinegar solution.
4. Let the solution fizz and sit for a few hours or overnight.
5. Vacuum the area thoroughly once the baking soda is completely dry.

Step 5: Deep Clean with a Carpet Cleaner

For deeply embedded urine stains or if the smell has soaked into the carpet padding, using a carpet cleaner or steam cleaner is an effective way to treat the area. These machines can push cleaning solutions deep into the fibers and padding, helping to remove older and tougher urine stains.

Benefits of Carpet Cleaners:

• They can reach deep into the carpet where manual cleaning may not be effective.
• They are powerful enough to lift old stains and break down the urine crystals that cause odors.

Step 6: Dry the Carpet Completely

After cleaning, its essential to dry the carpet thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth. Use fans, open windows, or place a dehumidifier in the room to accelerate the drying process. Avoid walking on the carpet until it is fully dry, as this can push any remaining moisture further into the fibers.

Step 7: Use a Deodorizer

Once the carpet is dry, applying a deodorizer specifically designed for carpets can help eliminate any lingering smell. Choose a product that neutralizes odors rather than masking them with strong fragrances.

Here’s another post you might find useful: How Do I Clean Human Urine from Carpet? Expert Tips & Tricks

Preventing Future Urine Accidents

Once the smell and stain are removed, its important to take steps to prevent future accidents and ensure your carpets remain clean and fresh. Whether you’re dealing with young children, elderly family members, or someone with incontinence, these preventative tips can help.

Use Waterproof Mats or Pads

Placing waterproof mats or pads under areas prone to accidents (such as beds or sofas) can help protect your carpet from further urine damage. These pads are often washable and reusable, making them an eco-friendly solution.

Address the Cause of Accidents

If frequent accidents are occurring due to medical issues, potty training, or incontinence, addressing the underlying cause is essential. Ensure the person involved has easy access to the bathroom or appropriate products to minimize the chances of further incidents.

Immediate Cleaning

Whenever a urine accident happens, the faster you act, the easier it is to prevent a long-term smell. Keep enzymatic cleaners and clean towels readily available to deal with any new stains immediately.

Don’t miss out on related tips: Read this next: How to Get Rid of Enzyme Cleaner Smell

Comparison of Cleaning Methods for Old Human Urine Smells

Each cleaning method has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the severity of the stain, how deep it has penetrated the carpet, and how long it has been sitting. Below is a comparison table to help you decide which method is most suitable for your situation:

Cleaning Method	Pros	Cons
Enzymatic Cleaners	Breaks down uric acid and neutralizes odor at the source	Can be expensive, requires patience for results
Vinegar and Baking Soda	Natural, inexpensive, and effective for mild to moderate stains	May require multiple applications for old or severe stains
Carpet Cleaners/Steam Cleaners	Provides deep cleaning, reaches carpet padding, effective for old stains	Requires renting or purchasing equipment, can be time-consuming
Commercial Carpet Deodorizers	Quickly freshens up the area, neutralizes lingering smells	Does not remove the stain or deeply embedded odors
Wet/Dry Vacuum	Efficient for extracting moisture after cleaning	Does not clean or deodorize by itself, must be used with other cleaners

DIY vs. Professional Cleaning: Which Is Better?

When dealing with old human urine stains, you may wonder if you should handle the cleaning yourself or hire a professional. Heres a breakdown of the advantages of both:

DIY Cleaning

Benefits

• Cost-effective: You can tackle the stain using household items or store-bought cleaners, avoiding expensive service fees.
• Convenience: You can clean at your own pace, without waiting for appointments.
• Control: You have full control over the cleaning process, ensuring that every detail is addressed.

Drawbacks

• Time-consuming: DIY cleaning can take significant time and effort, especially for old stains.
• Limited equipment: Without access to professional-grade tools, DIY cleaning might not reach deep into the carpet fibers or padding.

Professional Cleaning

Benefits

• Deep cleaning: Professionals use industrial-strength equipment and cleaners that reach deeper layers of the carpet.
• Guaranteed results: Many companies offer a satisfaction guarantee, ensuring the odor and stain are completely removed.
• Time-saving: Professional cleaners work faster and can clean larger areas more efficiently.

Drawbacks

• Cost: Hiring a professional can be expensive, particularly for extensive cleaning jobs.
• Scheduling: Youll need to book an appointment, which might not be convenient if you need immediate cleaning.

You might also be interested in: How to Get Sour Milk Smell Out of Car Carpet

The Do’s and Don’ts of Removing Human Urine Smell

Dos:

Do act quickly: The sooner you address the urine stain, the easier it will be to remove the smell.

Do use enzymatic cleaners: These are specifically designed to break down the components of human urine, making them the most effective solution.

Do test cleaning solutions: Always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet to ensure it doesnt cause damage or discoloration.

Donts:

Dont use bleach or ammonia: These chemicals may set the stain and exacerbate the odor. Ammonia, in particular, has a scent similar to urine and could confuse the individual causing more accidents in the same spot.

Dont oversaturate the carpet: Excessive water or cleaner can seep into the padding, causing mildew or mold issues.

Dont neglect padding or subflooring: If the urine has penetrated the carpet pad, surface cleaning alone wont remove the smell. In such cases, you may need to replace the padding or apply sealants to the subfloor.

Conclusion

Getting rid of the old human urine smell in carpets requires persistence and the right approach. By following the step-by-step methods outlined in this guide, you can effectively remove both the stain and odor, ensuring your carpet remains clean and fresh.

Using enzymatic cleaners, vinegar and baking soda solutions, and even professional carpet cleaning when necessary can go a long way in maintaining your carpet and preventing future issues.