We all love our furry companions, but they can cause a smell, as any pet owner knows. The smell can become especially prevalent in that patch of carpet your pet prefers, whether that spot is used for sleeping or is where the random accident occurs. But is using a commercial carpet deodorizer safe for pets? We've done some research and have some great options for you!
Some commercial pet deodorizers have chemicals that could be harmful to your pet. Most will be safe if used properly. However, there are deodorizers made with your four-legged friend in mind, as well as natural options, and these provide freshness and safety. When deodorizing your carpet, try the following options:
- Baking Soda
- TriNova Natural Pet Stain and Odor Remover Eliminator
- Angry Orange Odor Eliminator
- Arm & Hammer Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator
- Sunny & Honey Pet Stain & Odor Miracle
Now that we've established some commercial cleaners can be toxic, let's discuss the safer options in more detail. Read on to find out how to use these deodorizers, as well as get the answers to more questions you might have.
1. Baking Soda
Sometimes the best option is also the most cost-efficient one. Regular baking soda is excellent at removing all kinds of tough odor from carpets. There is even fresh-smelling baking soda to use on carpets. Though the scented baking soda leaves a fresh scent behind, it is no better or worse than traditional baking soda.
View this scented baking soda on Amazon.
To use baking soda as a deodorizer, sprinkle it all over your carpets. If you have deep down odor, use a clean broom to sweep the carpet, ensuring the baking soda goes into the fibers. Allow it to sit overnight, if at all possible. Vacuum the next day. Repeat as necessary.
This is a great option to use on upholstered furniture as well. Though baking soda won't eliminate tough stains, it will draw out the odor.
2. TriNova Natural Pet Stain and Odor Remover Eliminator
TriNova has enzymes that are especially effective on pet odors. These enzymes eat away at pet stains and odor, virtually destroying the material that made the foul odor or stain. This is especially effective on odors caused by pet accidents and any odor caused by outside agents such as smoke or spills. This is more than just a fabric refresher but an odor eradicator.
To use this deodorizer, saturate the stain with the spray and allow it to sit. If the stain is set or deep in the carpet, use a rag to work it into the fibers. Allow the spot to air dry or blot if needed. This deodorizer is made with natural oils and ingredients, which are considered non-toxic, so they are safe for pets.
3. Angry Orange Odor Eliminator
Angry Orange Odor Eliminator gets rid of all tough odors, whether from pets, smoke, or food, all while leaving behind a refreshing citrus scent. This cleaner uses, you guessed it, the power of oranges to remove stains and smells all while smelling great. The scent is nice without being overpowering, and once it dissipates, the previous odor goes along with it.
Though this is one of the pricier options, you can purchase the concentrate (pictured above), which allows you to make about three to four spray bottles of deodorizer. This can be spritzed on all surfaces--not just carpet. To deodorize the whole carpet, spray all over and allow it to dry. Repeat as needed.
4. Arm & Hammer Max Odor Eliminator
If you're on a budget, Arm & Hammer Max Odor Eliminator is easy to use and rather effective, according to Amazon reviewers. This deodorizer comes in a foaming spray. Simply coat your carpet or upholstery with the foam and leave it to dry.
View Arm & Hammer Max Odor Eliminator on Amazon.
This product is made for primary pet odors and is great for people on a budget. Be careful not to let your pets near it while it dries.
5. Sunny & Honey Pet Stain & Odor Miracle
This pet stain and odor remover by Sunny & Honey uses an enzymatic cleaner similar to the one by TriNova. This deodorizer has a lovely, light mint scent. Due to the non-toxic ingredients, it is safe to use around children and pets. The best part about this deodorizer? Ten-percent (10%) of their profits go to animals in need. This spray is a great addition to any pet-loving household.
View this Sunny & Honey Pet Stain & Odor Miracle on Amazon.
Is Carpet Deodorizer Toxic?
Carpet deodorizers, especially powders, can potentially be very toxic. Because the powdered variety can adhere to the carpet fibers even after vacuuming, the toxic effects can linger. Some chemicals used in commercial carpet deodorizers can cause respiratory distress if inhaled or ingested. If your children or pets (pay close attention to your pet's paws) come into contact with the powder, be sure to wash the area thoroughly.
Because of the above reasons, it is best to use a natural, liquid deodorizer, except for baking soda.
How Do You Deodorize a Carpet?
There are several different ways to deodorize a carpet. It's essential to know for what odor you are trying to deodorize before you begin cleaning. Read on about the different methods and steps.
Enzyme Cleaners
An enzyme cleaner is the only way you will get rid of tough pet odors from urine or feces, especially once these odors have bonded with the carpet fibers. If the mess is bad enough and has soaked through the carpet pad underneath, you will need to pull up the carpet to apply the enzyme cleaner beneath.
The affected area must be completely saturated with the enzymes. If not pulling up the carpet, ensure the deodorizer is ground down into the carpet, either using a clean broom or a scrub brush. If able, cover the area to stay moist for several hours, and the enzymes can do their work.
If the affected area was not already set, merely applying the enzyme cleaner and allowing it to air dry will be sufficient to eliminate the odors. However, it is important to note that if you've used other cleaners on the spot first without success, the enzyme treatment will most definitely need to be repeated, as the previously used chemical deodorizers could potentially kill the enzymes.
Baking Soda
The baking soda method is easy and efficient. If able, remove all furniture. Apply the baking soda all over the carpet. If desired, you can mix the baking soda with ground up, aromatic herbs to leave behind a fresh scent. Keep in mind, however, some herbs may be toxic to your pets, so do your research before adding any herbs. Allow the baking soda to stay on the carpet as long as possible before vacuuming it up.
Vinegar
A simple mixture of one part vinegar to three parts water in a spray bottle makes an excellent deodorizer, especially if you suspect mildew. This method is also safe for pets. Simply spray the affected area with the solution and allow it to soak. Blot with a rag after several hours. The strong vinegar smell will dissipate along with the malodorous aroma.
Carpet Shampooer
A carpet shampooer is a wise investment for pet owners. Sometimes the only way to get the carpet good and fresh is with shampoo. Many commercial cleaners made for a carpet shampooer contain enzymes, and this appliance is a great way to apply the enzymes to the affected area evenly. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions for shampooing your carpet.
View this carpet shampooer on Amazon.
Wondering how to get juice stains out of carpet? Check out "How to Get Grape Juice Out of Carpet?"
Why Does the Carpet Smell After Cleaning It?
The primary cause of a bad smell after cleaning the carpet could be oversaturation. If the area is too saturated and the carpet backing (or padding) underneath has gotten wet and been unable to dry before mold and mildew set in. Avoid this by either blotting after spot cleaning, using a wet-dry vacuum, or using fans pointed toward the wet spots to speed drying.
Another potential bad smell could be if underlying smells were brought to the surface and not eradicated. Enzyme cleaners can fix this odor or repeating the cleaning steps until the carpet once again smells fresh.
How Can You Make Your House Smell Pet-Free?
The best and only way to make your house smell pet-free is constant vigilance. Don't allow messes to set. Use baking soda each time you vacuum. Use a fabric refresher on your carpet and furniture every day, such as the Angry Orange cleaner listed above.
Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum to rid your furniture of pet hair. If your pet is a cat, clean the litter box often. Messes left unchecked can quickly get out of control!
In Closing
Some carpet deodorizers could present a safety hazard for your pet, but the good news is, there are plenty that can be used safely and effectively. Be sure always to follow the instructions on the product's label, and urge your pets away from any spots damp with cleaner, regardless of what kind it is. Keep you and yours happy and healthy!
Do your kids make more of a mess than the pets? Read more here about "How To Get Playdough Out of Carpet?"