Dogs having poop accidents aren’t uncommon. Despite knowing how common they are, it can still be overwhelming and frustrating while you’re trying to get the stains and smell out of the poop zone. That’s why we thought it is important to share what we have found works in these cases.
How To Get Dog Poop Out of Carpet
If your dog poops on the carpet, it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. Here’s how to clean like a pro:
- Remove the solids. Use paper towels or a plastic bag to pick up as much poop you can. If your dog has diarrhea, scoop up as much as you can with some sort of flat surface. This could be a paper plate, a dust pan, or a spatula (one you don’t want to use again).
- Don’t push in the waste. Avoid pushing your dog’s poop deeper into the carpet fibers and always wear gloves.
- Soak the area with an enzymatic cleaner. Spray the soiled area, along with a couple of inches outside of it, with an enzymatic cleaner. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle with baking soda. Gently scrub the area using a soft-bristle brush, let it dry for 30 to 60 minutes, then vacuum it up.
- Did it work? If you used this process, share with others how it worked in the comments below!
Natural Enzymatic Cleaners
If you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner handy, there are some natural household cleaners that can help, including:
- Vinegar. Vinegar is an effective stain remover that can help your dog’s poop mess. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, using a clean cloth to blot the area until the stain is gone.
- Baking soda. Baking soda can be used as a powerful deodorizer for poop messes. Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet and allow it to sit for several hours before vacuuming. If that doesn’t get rid of the odor, allow it to remain on the area overnight.
- Dawn dish soap. Dish soap can also be used for mild stains and messes. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, then apply it on the affected area using a clean cloth. Use a vacuum to remove any remaining residue.
- Lemon juice. For a natural deodorizer, dilute lemon juice with water or mix it with baking soda to make a paste, then use it on your carpet.
If You Have Old Poop Stains
Contrary to popular belief, it is sometimes easier to clean dried poop stains than fresh ones. To remove old poop stains, try the following:
- Remove the dried poop. Pull dried pieces out of the carpet as much as you can. You may want to try to use a utensil like a bristle brush, putty knife, or fork to pull the dried poop off the carpet.
- Enzymatic cleaner. Old stains on carpets require a good enzymatic cleaner to break down the bacteria. This could be a commercial cleaner or one of the natural enzymatic cleaners listed above. Saturate the area, and allow it to sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Then scrub the spot gently.
- Baking soda. Spread a layer of baking soda over the area and let it sit for 30 to 60 minutes. Then vacuum to finish the cleaning process.
Cleaning Up Dog Poop: A General Process
Cleaning up dog poop inside the house can be an unpleasant task, but it’s essential for maintaining a clean, healthy living environment. If your dog has an accident indoors, first remove the solids using a plastic bag or disposable gloves to prevent direct contact.
Dispose of this properly in an outdoor waste bin. Next, clean the affected area with a pet-friendly enzymatic cleaner, which breaks down the feces at a microscopic level to eliminate any residual odors and stains.
Let the cleaner sit according to the instructions on the bottle, then blot it up with a clean, dry towel. It’s crucial not to rub, as this can drive the stain deeper into the carpet fibers. If the accident occurred on a hard floor, mop the area with a floor cleaner suitable for the specific flooring type after using the enzymatic cleaner.
Finally, ventilate the room to help remove any lingering smells. Remember, cleaning thoroughly and promptly can prevent your dog from being attracted back to the same spot for another indoor ‘bathroom break’.