Updated September 2025 • Urine Zero
Surface sprays don’t touch the source — odors hide in the padding (and sometimes subfloor). This guide adds diagnostics, subfloor protocol, extraction technique, coverage/severity, and a big FAQ.
Why carpet still smells after “cleaning”
Urine wicks into the padding (and sometimes subfloor). If treatment only touches the fibers, heat/humidity will “reactivate” deeper residues and the odor returns. The fix: get solution where the urine went, give it time while damp, then extract thoroughly.
Diagnose the problem (60-second checklist)
- Hot day smell: residues remain in padding → increase saturation + dwell; repeat next day.
- New spot after treatment: wicking/migration → expand treatment area 6–12 in beyond the visible stain.
- Deep yellow under UV/blacklight: old urine in padding/subfloor → follow the Subfloor Protocol.
- Fine rug over wood/tile: slide a plastic liner or trash bag underneath before saturating to protect the floor.
- Wool/silk or jute/sisal rugs: always pre-test; avoid over-wetting; consider a pro for delicate fibers.
Step-by-step: remove urine odor from carpet & rugs
- Blot & prep. Blot fresh urine with white towels; for dried spots, pre-dampen with water.
- Pre-test colorfastness. Hidden area first; discontinue if dye lifts.
- Apply generously. Pour or squeeze to saturate until the liquid reaches the padding (avoid flooding beyond the affected zone).
- Dwell 10–20 minutes. Keep the area damp (not puddled) so the formula can work deeper.
- Extract thoroughly. Use a wet/dry vac to pull liquid up from the padding; slow passes beat quick swipes.
- Air-dry completely. For old/severe odors, repeat in 12–24 hours.
Extraction technique that actually works
- Edges → center: start vacuuming from the outer ring toward the middle to pull residues from padding inward.
- Rinse-and-pull (optional): light water-only mist, then extract again to remove loosened residues.
- No steam: avoid hot steam — heat can set odors/stains deeper into fibers and padding.
- Upholstery/rugs: protect wood/stone beneath with plastic; dry with a fan for airflow.
Subfloor protocol (for severe/old spots)
- Check under the carpet. If odor persists after two good passes, lift a corner (where feasible) and inspect padding/subfloor.
- Treat padding & slab/wood. Apply RTU to the underside of carpet/padding and lightly to the subfloor; allow 10–20 min dwell; air-dry.
- Re-install & finish. Lay carpet back, treat the top side once more, extract, and dry fully.
- Only after odor is gone should you consider sealing a stained slab with a stain-blocking primer. Don’t seal in odor.
Coverage & severity (RTU)
Use this guide; adjust for pile height, pad thickness, and subfloor involvement.
| Severity | Rate (oz/sq ft) | Typical repeats | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | ~0.4 | 1 pass | Fresh accident; minimal wicking |
| Moderate | ~0.8 | 2 passes (12–24 hrs apart) | Padding involvement likely |
| Severe | ~1.5 | 2–3 passes | Old hotspots; possible subfloor |
Using 10X Concentrate — mix 1:9
Mix 1 part concentrate : 9 parts water. Shake/stir the concentrate before diluting. Do not mix with other chemicals.
| Final Volume (RTU) | Concentrate | Water |
|---|---|---|
| 16 oz | 1.6 oz | 14.4 oz |
| 24 oz | 2.4 oz | 21.6 oz |
| 32 oz | 3.2 oz | 28.8 oz |
| 1 gal | 12.8 oz | 115.2 oz |
Pro tips & safety
- Press—don’t scrub: forcing liquid to padding without fuzzing fibers.
- Slow extraction: multiple slow passes pull from padding better than quick swipes.
- No steam: heat can set odors/stains deeper; stick to RTU + extraction.
- Airflow: fans/windows help dry time and reduce residual odor.
- Pets/kids: keep off until completely dry.
- Stain vs odor: remove odor first; treat any remaining discoloration with a fiber-appropriate stain remover afterward.
FAQ — Carpet & Rugs
Is it safe on wool/silk or natural-fiber rugs?
Always pre-test for colorfastness on a hidden area and avoid over-wetting. For delicate fibers (wool/silk, jute/sisal), consider a professional if you’re unsure.
How many treatments will I need?
Fresh spots often resolve in one application; older or severe odors typically need 2–3 treatments spaced 12–24 hours apart.
Can I mix with vinegar/bleach or other cleaners?
No. Dilute 10X with water only at 1:9. Mixing with other chemicals can reduce effectiveness and isn’t recommended.
Can I use a carpet extractor instead of a wet/dry vac?
Yes—use on a water-only rinse/extract setting after the 10–20 minute dwell. Avoid hot steam; keep passes slow to pull from padding.
What about mattresses or upholstered furniture?
Use the same principles at smaller scale: pre-test, apply enough to reach the cushion layer, allow 10–20 minute dwell, then extract. Ensure strong airflow and dry thoroughly.
How do I prevent re-soiling?
Treat new accidents promptly; consider pet behavior fixes (litter/pee pad placement, vet check for recurring issues). Set a maintenance cadence for chronic zones.