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AJS Carpet Cleaning

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What Are Dust Mites and How to Control Them?

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House dust mites are microscopic organisms commonly found in most homes.  They cannot be seen with the naked eye but they accumulate rapidly and can cause great harm to human health.Dust mites are related to spiders, ticks, and chiggers. But they do not bite and are not parasites.

They feed mainly on skin scales (dander) from humans and pets. However, the danger with dust mites comes from the allergens that is produced by their fecal matter, body secretions, and shed skin scales.

This is the primary cause of allergic reactions in humans.

Where are they found?

Dust mites can be found everywhere. And they are usually detected in bedding and carpets and can also be found in furniture and drapery.

They live and thrive in warm, dry places. These include the cracks and crevices that occur naturally around windows, doors, and baseboards.

If you don’t clean regularly, your home will become filled with dust mites in just a few days. In fact, the average person sheds up to 10 pounds of dead skin every year! That means there are hundreds of thousands to millions of them living in your house right now.

 

 

 

Dust mites

Symptoms of a house dust mite allergy

Dust mites can live for years in carpets, rugs and other household items. People who have hypersensitive lungs, or who already have lung problems, may experience asthma attacks if they inhale allergens. These attacks can cause wheezing, severe breathing problems, and may even be fatal.

Lifestyle and habits of dust mites

Mites are more likely to thrive where the air is warm and humid. Dust mites are very susceptible to dehydration. They do not ingest moisture but absorb and excrete it through their skin. Optimum growing conditions are between 75- and 80-degrees F and 70 and 80 percent relative humidity. Therefore, humidity levels within the home have a significant effect on the growth, and development of dust mites. Dust mites cannot thrive when the relative humidity is below 50 percent.

The life cycles

The lifecycle of a house dust mite includes five stages – the egg, larva, protonymph, tritonymph and adult. The mite molts and sheds skin between each stage. The shed skin and feces together with the carcasses of dead adults accumulate among fabric fibers and in crevices. These contain the dangerous allergenic proteins. Under favorable conditions, development from egg to adult takes about one month. The typical adult will live between 1-2 months.

Ways to Get Rid of Dust Mites in Your Home

If you are prone to asthma attacks or suffer from allergic reactions that may be triggered by dust mite, you need to do the following:

Reduce clutter

Minimize objects that can collect dust. Especially upholstered fabrics. Throw out anything you don’t absolutely need and replace them with items that are easy to clean. Dust mites love to feed and deposit allergens on these items.

Reduce the indoor temperature

Mites won’t thrive in a colder environment. Maintain a temperature between 60-75 degrees F in your home to prevent dust mites from breeding rapidly and accumulating allergens in your home.

Keep the humidity low

Try to keep the relative humidity inside the home as low as possible or practical. Dust mites can’t survive for long when the relative humidity is below 50 percent. Adequate ventilation will always help. Install a dehumidifier if you can, to improve the control of relative humidity. This will always help to remove dust mite populations and allergens from carpeting, bedding and other indoor surfaces.
how to get rid of dust mites

Vacuum regularly

Clean, dust and vacuum often to remove dust and allergens deposited by mites from the home. Avoid using the bagless or cannister type vacuum cleaners. These will invariably cause you to re-deposit some of the materials you collected when it is time to empty the vacuum cleaner. Always try to select a top-quality vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arrestor) system. Because anything less will be incapable of collecting the microscopic particulates that contain allergens. Portable HEPA filters may also be strategically placed in individual rooms to help with air filtration and dust collection.

 Clean Bedding Frequently

The bed is one of the most important places in our house. When we sleep in it, to rest and get refreshed. The only drawback is that the mattress on our bed is often infested with dust mites. And our mattresses, pillows, and blankets are a perfect environment for them. Dust mites are microscopic creatures that love to stay warm. Their favorite spot is in the bed. When we sleep, we release heat from our bodies and the bed absorbs it. So, when you lie down in the bed, your body temperature drops, which is why they like to nest in the bed. When you leave the bed for a while, the dust mites move to another place, and it is this behavior that makes them so common in our homes.

Add Protective Coverings to Mattresses

Add a protective covering to your mattress and pillows to help control or eliminate dust mites carapaces and feces. These plastic covers cannot be penetrated by dust mites and form a barrier between them and the mattress or pillow. Since dust mites can’t access their food supply of dead skin scales on the mattress, they will literally starve to death.

Clean or Replace Heavy Window Coverings

Drapery fabrics collect dust and other particles that attracts dust mites. Heavy drapes or other window coverings should be washed, vacuumed and steam cleaned frequently. If this is impractical, they should be removed, especially from bedrooms where detritus gets embedded in the fabric easily.
Consider treating carpet and upholstery with a pesticide

Consider treating carpet and upholstery with a pesticide

Many pesticides are now available for the treatment of upholstery, carpeting and other fabrics for the control of dust mites. These include benzoates which will kill dust mites and tannins which are supposed to mitigate the effect of allergens. Results from using these acaracides are not too conclusive, so this treatment should only be used to supplement more established procedures, like those outlined above.

Clean carpets and upholstery regularly

Regular carpet and upholstery cleaning is perhaps the most important action you can take to remove dust mites and allergens from your home. Carpet is a very efficient filter and covers large areas of most homes. Upholstery fabrics will also collect dust mites readily. If people in the home are sensitive to allergens, your furniture needs to ve vacuumed daily. Other furniture covers with porous or washable fibers should be dusted, vacuumed and steam cleaned or washed often. Make sure you are removing all dust mites and allergens possible by having your carpet and upholstery cleaned by a professional carpet cleaner
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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.