Know How To Choose The Best Upholstery Fabric

Choosing The Best Upholstery Fabric

What Is Upholstery and How Do You Choose the Best Upholstery Fabric?

There are many different types of upholstery available, but nationally, the two most popular ones are leather and vinyl. Other upholstery fabric include canvas, microfiber and polyester, nylon and other synthetic blends. Leather is desirable and the most popular upholstery fabric.

It can be used for sofas, chairs, sectionals, dining room, and bedroom furniture. It comes in different colors. Leather is durable and soft. It is an extremely versatile material that will last for a long time. 

However, it is also the among the most expensive. Therefore in states like Utah, synthetic textiles are the best choice for most upholstered pieces. 

Read on to learn more in this article.

The different types of upholstery fabric

You can get leather upholstery in a variety of patterns and colors. Leather upholstery is popular because it looks good and it lasts long. 

Canvas is also an excellent choice. It can be made with a variety of different textiles including cotton, linen and wool. These materials will also make your sofa look good. Canvas can be inexpensive and very durable.

Microfiber is also an attractive upholstery textile that can be used for a variety of different purposes. Some examples are for rugs, carpets, wall coverings and couches.

Nylon is another attractive upholstery textile that can be made into a variety of shapes, including coverings for walls and pillows.

Polyester is a synthetic blend that can be made into different upholstery covering including microfiber.

Leather fabrics sofa

Upholstery Fabric Types

Furniture upholstery covers can be any type of textile — natural or synthetic, or a blend of both types.

  • Natural fibers are derived from plants, animals, and minerals.
  • Textiles such as cotton, wool, and linen are made from natural fibers.
  • Natural fibers are further classified as mineral protein, and cellulose.
  • Chemical synthesis is used in the manufacturing of synthetic or manmade fibers.

History

Various kinds of upholstery has been in use since ancient times. There are many examples of pieces from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Many examples of various kinds of seating has survived, including stools, benches, chairs, and thrones. These include art forms and existing examples preserved over time. 

The Egyptian chairs were often made with wood as the base material. Seat covers could include cloth or leather, as well as be adorned with cordage. The majority of the chairs of all countries until the middle of the 17th century were of timber, and when it became customary to cushion them, leather and silk were extensively used.

Modern

Today’s upholsterers mostly employ synthetic materials like dacron and vinyl, serpentine springs, and so on. As a result, they can construct coverings quickly and efficiently. This is what makes it possible to create custom designs with today’s upholstery.

different types of upholstery fabrics
Upholstery fabrics

How To Choose Your Upholstery

First, you need to identify the type of textile that will be used for your upholstery piece. It could be velvet or satin, cotton, silk or polyester, leather or vinyl. You also need to figure out the kind and amount of color you want to use.

You can choose from a variety of color options. For example, you can select from solid or variegated colors. Solid colors are simple and classic. They’re often used in dining room chairs, sofa arm rests, and other decorative items.

Of course you always have the option to consult with your upholsterer or notable furniture store manager. We say notable to imply that you should search for a true artist who understands modern weave.

It’s true that most upholstery stores have a very limited selection of textiles. But, they have a lot of patterns, which can be a great starting point for you to create your own designs.

Upholstery Maintenance

Here are some steps to help with maintenance of upholstery.

  • Vacuum upholstery regularly
  • Spot clean the upholstery
  • Keep upholstery away from sunlight and pollutants
  • Turn any cushions periodically
  • Clean your upholstery professionally at least once a year.

Upholstery Stain removal

Regular care of your furniture can make it last for years, but accidents happen.

  • Spot Cleaning
  • Blot any spills on the upholstery immediately with a white cloth or paper towel. Blot gently. Don’t rub as that may cause the stain to spread.
  • If the stain comes from something that is in your home such as food, drink or clothing, it’s usually fairly easy to remove when fresh. So work on it immediately.
  • Most stains are either water-soluble or solvent soluble.
  • Water soluble stains can be removed by aqueous solvents like, water or inorganic acids and bases.
  • Solvent-soluble stains can be removed by organic solvents like alcohol, ether, kerosene etc.
  • Some stains are really dyes that may be permanent or may need the services of a professional upholstery cleaner for removal.

Vacuum

Weekly vacuuming of your furniture is a good way to clean and remove surface soil. Dirt can become embedded into the fibers if this is not corrected. 

It is best to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter because it can trap particles down to 0.05 microns and can be used on all surfaces in the home.

Avoid Pollutants and Sunlight 

Exposure to sunlight and pollutants can cause damage to upholstery, so it’s a good idea to avoid this. Upholstery needs to be positioned so that it doesn’t sit in the sun for long periods.

Silks and other delicate fabrics are especially vulnerable also. Fumes or smoke from cooking contains pollutants that can also harm your fabric. Ventilation systems can’t always prevent these issues, but they can minimize the impact.

Upholstery maintenance
vacuum upholstery-cleaning

Upholstery cleaning services

In general, upholstery cleaning requires a different approach from the carpet cleaning approach.  Skilled upholstery cleaning professionals are often necessary, not only because of the differences in fabric types but also due to the different kinds of soiling that may be present.

Carpets will usually have all different kinds of soiling, while upholstery soiling is mainly limited to soils from humans, animals, insect pests, or airborne contaminants.

Upholstered furniture will usually be most heavily soiled with body oils on the arm rests, headrests, or bottom skirting. Dry soils and human or insect detritus may also be found under the cushions or in the crevices around the seating.

Typically, upholstery is not vacuumed as often as carpet, but in order to maintain and clean microfiber properly, it is necessary to vacuum thoroughly.

Hair from pets or humans will be difficult to remove from microfiber upholstery, but this task can be made easier by using a lint collector in conjunction with a special upholstery tool, to vacuum properly before each cleaning. The cleaning process is essentially the same as for carpet cleaning, but with the following precautions:

  • Pre-test all cleaning solutions by applying it to an inconspicuous place.
    Pre-treat with a milder pre-conditioner. Avoid highly alkaline solutions that may cause the fabric dyes to bleed or run.
  • Agitate gently by brushing the fabric after pre-treatment with a soft bristle horsehair brush. A rough white terry cloth towel may be used also.
  • For truck-mounted equipment, use lower solution temperatures and pressures. Normally the pressure should be below 200 p.s.i.g. and the temperature below 150 degrees F.
  • Do not over-wet. Use a low moisture upholstery tool in order to avoid overwetting. Dry as thoroughly as possible. An air mover or fan will be quite helpful here.

What is the best way to clean upholstery?

There is generally no “best” way. A professional upholstery cleaner can determine which method is most appropriate to achieve the desired results.

Author

Victor Nugent

Owner and President of AJS Carpet Cleaning, Inc. with over 20 years experience in the Carpet Cleaning business

FAQs

What cleaning methods do you use?

At AJS Carpet Cleaning, we utilize various cleaning methods based on the specific needs of our customers. For example, some of our commonly used methods include hot water extraction (steam cleaning), dry cleaning, and encapsulation. Furthermore, we tailor each method to deliver the best results for different types of carpets and upholstery. Additionally, our team’s expertise ensures that each cleaning approach is applied with precision and care, providing optimal outcomes for every client.

Do you also clean area rugs and upholstery?

Yes, at AJS Carpet Cleaning, we provide cleaning services for area rugs and upholstery as well. In addition, whether you need to freshen up your area rugs or remove stains from your upholstery, we have the expertise to handle it. Moreover, our professional team ensures thorough cleaning and restoration of your area rugs and upholstery to their original beauty.

Is your cleaning process safe for pets and children?

Absolutely! The safety of your pets and children is our top priority at AJS Carpet Cleaning. We use cleaning products that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for your loved ones. Our cleaning process effectively removes dirt, stains, and allergens without compromising the well-being of your pets and children. Additionally, we specifically tailor our pet stain treatment and odor removal services to address any issues related to pets.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes, we offer free estimates for our carpet cleaning services. We understand that every cleaning job is unique, and we want to provide you with an accurate assessment of the cost. To receive a free estimate, visit our online quote and fill out the form with the necessary details. Our team will review your request and provide you with a comprehensive estimate.

Is your pricing based on the room or square footage?

We typically base our pricing for carpet cleaning services on the square footage of the area needing cleaning. This allows us to provide a fair and accurate estimate based on the size of the space. However, we also take into consideration other factors such as the condition of the carpet, the level of stains or dirt, and any additional services you may require. This approach ensures we tailor our pricing to your specific needs.

Are there any additional charges that could arise?

In some cases, there may be additional charges depending on specific circumstances. For example, heavily soiled areas requiring extra attention or specialized treatments for stains or odors may incur additional charges. However, we always discuss and agree upon these additional charges with the customer before doing any work. We strive to be transparent about our pricing and ensure that there are no surprises.

Do you offer any packages or discounts for multiple rooms?

Yes, we do offer packages and discounts for multiple rooms. We understand that many customers have multiple areas that need cleaning, and we want to provide cost-effective solutions. Our team can provide you with information on our current packages and any available discounts based on the number of rooms you need to have cleaned. To discuss specific pricing options and available discounts, please reach out to our team directly at 801-368-0705 or through our online quote. We’ll be happy to assist you further.

Is there an extra charge for high traffic areas?

At AJS Carpet Cleaning, we understand that high traffic areas can require additional attention and cleaning. In some cases, there may be an extra charge for cleaning heavily soiled or high traffic areas. However, we will discuss and agree upon the specific details and any associated charges with you before doing any work. Our goal is to provide transparent pricing and ensure we inform you about any potential additional charges. If you have any concerns about high traffic areas or would like more information, please call us at (801) 368-0705

How far in advance do I need to schedule an appointment?

We recommend scheduling an appointment with us at least 1-2 weeks in advance to secure your desired date and time. However, we understand that there may be situations where you need immediate service. In such cases, we will do our best to accommodate your needs and find a suitable time slot for your cleaning job. To schedule an appointment, visit our website online booking or contact us directly at 801-368-0705. 

How long will the cleaning process take?

Several factors, such as the size of the area to be cleaned, the level of dirt and stains, and the specific cleaning method used, can vary the duration of the cleaning process. As a general guideline, a typical carpet cleaning job can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the actual time required may vary. Our team will work efficiently to complete the job as quickly as possible while ensuring thorough and high-quality cleaning. If you have any specific time constraints or scheduling considerations, please let me know so that we can accommodate your needs.

How long will it take for the carpets to dry?

The drying time for carpets can vary depending on various factors, including the humidity level, airflow, carpet thickness, and cleaning method used. On average, carpets typically take around 4-6 hours to dry completely. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the drying time may vary. To expedite the drying process, we recommend ensuring proper ventilation in the area, using fans or opening windows if possible. Our team will also provide you with some post-cleaning tips to help speed up the drying process. 

Do you offer weekend or evening appointments?

Yes, we do offer weekend and evening appointments to accommodate our customers’ busy schedules. We understand that weekdays may not always be convenient for everyone, so we strive to provide flexible appointment options. When scheduling your appointment, please let us know your preferred date and time, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. To book an appointment, you can visit our online booking or contact us directly at 801-368-0705

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes, AJS Carpet Cleaning is a licensed and insured company. We take pride in providing professional and reliable services to our customers. Our fully trained and certified team ensures quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Additionally, we carry liability insurance to protect both our customers and our employees during the cleaning process. 

Do you have any industry certifications?

Yes, AJS Carpet Cleaning holds industry certifications to ensure the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Our team members train and certify in various cleaning techniques and methods. While we don’t have specific certifications mentioned, we continuously invest in training and staying up-to-date with the latest industry practices. This allows us to deliver exceptional results and provide our customers with the best possible service. 

How long have you been in business?

AJS Carpet Cleaning has been in business since 2000, serving customers in Utah for over 20 years. Our experience and longevity in the industry are a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality cleaning services and customer satisfaction. 

Do you have references or reviews I can check?

Yes, we have references and reviews from satisfied customers that you can check. We take pride in our work and value the feedback from our clients. You can visit our website at ablejan.com to find testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, you can also find reviews on our social media pages such as Facebook and Google. We strive to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and are confident that you will find positive feedback about our services. 

Do you offer a guarantee for your services?

Yes, we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for our services. We commit to providing high-quality cleaning and ensuring our customers’ satisfaction with the results. If our service does not completely satisfy you, please inform us within a reasonable timeframe. We will work with you to address any concerns and rectify the situation. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we stand behind the quality of our work. 

What steps can I take to maintain my carpet after it's been cleaned?

Here are a few tips to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your carpet after professional cleaning:

Vacuum regularly:

Regular vacuuming helps to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the carpet surface. Aim to vacuum at least once a week, or more frequently in high-traffic areas.

Address spills and stains promptly:

If any spills or stains occur, it’s important to clean them up as soon as possible. Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel and avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain. If needed, use a mild carpet cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to treat the stain.

Use doormats and shoe removal:

Placing doormats at entryways can reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked onto the carpet. Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes upon entering to minimize dirt and stains.

Avoid excessive moisture:

Limit the amount of moisture that comes into contact with your carpet. Wipe up any spills promptly and avoid over-wetting the carpet during cleaning.

Schedule regular professional cleanings:

Periodic professional cleanings are essential to maintain the freshness and appearance of your carpet. We recommend scheduling a professional cleaning at least once every 12-18 months, or more frequently for high-traffic areas.

Following these maintenance practices will help extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking its best.

Do you offer any after care products or services?

Yes, we offer aftercare products and services to help you maintain the cleanliness and condition of your carpet after cleaning. Our team can provide you with recommendations for carpet spot cleaners or stain removers that are safe and effective for use on your specific type of carpet. Additionally, we can offer advice on proper cleaning techniques for addressing spills and stains. 

What types of stains are you able to remove?

We are able to remove the toughest of the stains:

  • Wine and Juice Stains
  • Coffee Stains
  • Pet Stains
  • Blood Stains
  • Green Tea
  • Cooking Oil
  • Kool-Aid
  • Ink
  • Glue
  • Wax, Gum, Fat and Oil
  • Yellow Mustard
  • Nail Polish

While you can likely remove stains on your own, the challenge is doing so without damaging your expensive carpet. Call AJS Pro Carpet Cleaning for safe removal.

Do you use eco-friendly cleaning solutions?

Yes, we exclusively use commercial green carpet cleaning products formulated with natural and sustainable ingredients, ensuring safety for both the environment and human health.

How often should I clean my tile, stone and/or grout?

Cleaning frequency for tile, stone, and grout depends on the location, usage, and type of tile or stone. Here’s a general guideline:

Daily Cleaning:
  • Kitchen Tiles: Wipe down kitchen tiles daily to remove grease, food splatters, and other residues. This will prevent buildup and make deeper cleaning easier.
  • Bathroom Tiles: Wipe down tiles after showers or baths to prevent water spots, soap scum, and mildew buildup.
Weekly Cleaning:
  • Floors: Sweep or vacuum tile and stone floors weekly to remove dirt and debris. This prevents the dirt from scratching the surface. Mop with a damp mop using a cleaner suitable for your specific tile or stone type.
  • Bathroom Tiles: Clean tiles and grout with a bathroom cleaner to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Ensure good ventilation to keep the area dry.
  • Kitchen Backsplash and Countertops: Clean with a mild detergent or a cleaner suitable for your tile or stone.
Monthly Cleaning:

Deep Cleaning: Depending on the traffic and usage, you might want to do a deeper cleaning of your tiles and grout monthly. This involves using a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the grout lines.

Annually or Bi-annually:
  • Sealing Grout: You should seal grout, especially in areas like the bathroom, to prevent moisture and stain penetration. Depending on the type of sealer used and the traffic in the area, you might need to reseal your grout every 1-2 years
  • Stone: Natural stone might require periodic sealing to protect it from stains and wear. The frequency depends on the type of stone and its location. For example, marble in a frequently used bathroom might need sealing more often than slate in a low-traffic area.
As Needed:
  • Stain Removal: Attend to spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting. Always use a cleaner appropriate for your tile or stone type. Acidic cleaners, for example, can damage natural stone like marble and limestone.
  • Grout Whitening: If grout becomes discolored, you can use grout whitening products or a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to restore its color.
Tips:
  • Always test cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure they don’t damage or discolor the tile, stone, or grout.
  • Avoid using abrasive pads on tiles and stones as they can scratch the surface.
  • Ensure proper ventilation when using strong cleaning products to avoid inhaling fumes.

Remember, the key to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your tile, stone, and grout is regular cleaning and proper care.

Why should I have my upholstered furniture professionally cleaned?

Professionally cleaning your upholstered furniture offers several benefits:

Deep Cleaning:

Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques to deeply clean upholstery, removing dirt, allergens, and contaminants that regular home cleaning methods might miss.

Extended Furniture Life:

Dirt and grime can wear down and degrade upholstery fibers over time. Regular professional cleaning can help extend the life of your furniture by removing these abrasive substances.

Stain Removal:

Professionals have the tools and expertise to remove tough stains without damaging the fabric. They can identify the type of stain and the type of fabric to determine the best cleaning method.

Health Benefits:

Upholstered furniture can harbor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. A professional cleaning can help reduce these allergens, improving indoor air quality and potentially benefiting those with allergies or respiratory issues.

Odor Removal:

Over time, upholstered furniture can absorb odors from pets, spills, smoke, and other sources. Professional cleaning can help neutralize and remove these odors, leaving your furniture smelling fresh.

Safe Cleaning Methods:

Professionals train to recognize different types of upholstery materials and know which cleaning methods and products are safe and effective for each. This reduces the risk of damage or discoloration.

Appearance:

Regular professional cleaning can help maintain the vibrant color, texture, and overall appearance of your furniture, making it look newer for longer.

Protective Treatments:

Many professional cleaners offer protective treatments that can be applied after cleaning. These treatments can help repel stains and spills, making future cleanings easier and extending the time between cleanings.

Saves Time and Effort:

Cleaning upholstery can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Hiring a professional can save you the effort and ensure a thorough job.

Economic:

While professional cleaning incurs a cost, it can be more economical in the long run. Maintaining your furniture in good condition might mean you don’t need to replace it as often.

Expertise:
  • Professionals train to handle a variety of situations, from mold and mildew issues to water damage. They can provide guidance and services tailored to specific problems.

  • While regular vacuuming and spot cleaning at home are essential for maintaining your upholstered furniture, periodic professional cleanings can ensure its longevity, appearance, and cleanliness.

How to get dog pee out of carpet?

Removing dog urine from carpet can be a challenge, especially if it has set for a while. However, with the right approach, you can effectively remove the stain and odor. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Blot the Fresh Stain:

If the urine is still wet, blot up as much of the urine as possible using paper towels or a clean cloth. Do not rub, as this can spread the urine and push it deeper into the carpet fibers.
Place a thick layer of paper towels on the wet spot and press down with your feet or place a heavy object on top to help absorb the moisture.

Prepare a Cleaning Solution:

Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area generously. Let it sit for a few minutes, then sprinkle baking soda over the area.

Commercial Enzymatic Cleaners specifically design to break down the proteins in urine, eliminating both the stain and odor. Brands like Nature’s Miracle or Simple Solution are popular choices. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Apply the Cleaning Solution:

If using the vinegar solution, after sprinkling baking soda, let it fizz and sit for a few hours or overnight if possible.
If using an enzymatic cleaner, apply as directed on the product label.

Blot and Rinse:

After the solution has had time to work, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
Rinse the area with cool water and blot again to remove the cleaning solution. This step is crucial to prevent any residue from attracting dirt in the future.

Vacuum:

Once the area is completely dry, vacuum to restore the carpet’s texture and remove any leftover baking soda or residue.

Check for Remaining Odor:

If you can still smell urine, it may have soaked into the carpet padding or even the subfloor. In such cases, you might need to treat the area multiple times or consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner.

Prevent Future Accidents:
  • If your dog has an accident once, they might incline to return to the same spot. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any lingering scents that might attract your dog back to the spot.

  • Consider using a pet repellent spray or another deterrent to keep your dog away from the area.

Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

How to get dog pee smell out of carpet?

If you’ve managed to remove the visible stain from dog urine but are still battling the lingering odor, here are some steps and methods to help you eliminate the smell:

Enzymatic Cleaners:

These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins in urine, which are the primary cause of the odor. Brands like Nature’s Miracle, Simple Solution, or Rocco & Roxie are popular choices.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you’ll want to saturate the area to ensure the cleaner reaches the carpet padding where urine might have soaked.

Vinegar and Baking Soda:
  • Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area generously.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot up as much moisture as you can.
  • Once the area is mostly dry, sprinkle baking soda over it. The baking soda will help absorb and neutralize odors.
  • After letting the baking soda sit for a few hours or overnight, vacuum it up.
Hydrogen Peroxide:
  • Mix a solution of ½ cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1 teaspoon of dish soap, and 2 tablespoons of baking soda.
  • Test this solution on an inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t bleach or discolor the fibers.
  • Apply to the affected area and let it sit for an hour or so, then blot and rinse with water.
Professional Cleaning:

If home remedies aren’t effective, consider hiring a professional carpet cleaning service. They have specialized equipment and solutions that can deeply clean and deodorize carpets.

Odor Neutralizers:

There are commercial odor neutralizers available that can help mask and eliminate pet odors. You can spray or sprinkle these on the affected area.

Air Out the Room:
  • Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and help dissipate the odor.
  • Consider using fans to help speed up the process.
Replace the Carpet Padding:

In extreme cases where the urine has deeply soaked into the carpet padding or subfloor, you might need to replace the padding in that particular area. This is a more drastic measure but can be effective in completely eliminating deep-set odors.

Prevention:
  • Train your dog to avoid accidents indoors.
  • Consider using a waterproof carpet pad, which can prevent liquids from soaking through to the subfloor.
  • Regularly clean and deodorize areas your dog frequents to prevent the buildup of odors over time.

Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.

What neutralizes dog urine?

You can neutralize dog urine using a combination of methods that address both the stain and the odor. Here are some substances and methods that can neutralize dog urine:

White Vinegar:

White vinegar is a natural acid that can neutralize the alkaline salts present in dried dog urine stains. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and apply it to the urine stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then blot up the moisture.

Baking Soda:

Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can neutralize acidic components in urine. It also acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing odors. After treating a urine spot with vinegar, sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then vacuum.

Enzymatic Cleaners:
  • These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins and uric acid crystals in urine, effectively neutralizing the stain and odor.
  • Popular brands include Nature’s Miracle, Simple Solution, and Rocco & Roxie. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Hydrogen Peroxide:
  • Hydrogen peroxide can help neutralize the odor of dog urine. However, it can also bleach or discolor certain materials, so always test a small, inconspicuous area first.
  • Mix a solution of ½ cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide with a teaspoon of dish soap and apply to the urine stain.
  • Allow it to sit for a while, then blot and rinse.
Dish Soap:
  • Mild dish soap can help break down the uric acid and remove the stain.
  • You often mix it with other solutions, like hydrogen peroxide, for a more effective treatment.

Lemon Juice:
  • The citric acid in lemon juice can help neutralize the alkaline components of dog urine.
  • Mix equal parts of lemon juice and water and apply to the stain. However, be cautious, as lemon juice can also bleach certain fabrics.
Cornstarch:
  • Cornstarch helps absorb fresh urine, thus reducing the amount of urine that requires neutralization. 

  • Sprinkle cornstarch over a fresh urine spot, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum.
Water:

Rinsing the affected area with water after treating it with any of the above solutions can help wash away the urine components and any cleaning residues.

 

When dealing with dog urine, it’s essential to act quickly. The longer the urine sits, the harder it will be to neutralize and remove the stain and odor. Always test any solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.