What Should You Do After A Pet Accident?
Quick Answer
Blot as much moisture as possible immediately. Avoid bleach or excessive household cleaners. Pet urine often penetrates beneath the carpet into the cushion, where odors continue developing.
Why It Matters
Pet urine does not stay on the surface. It seeps through the carpet backing into the padding below, where it crystallizes and releases odors over time. Surface cleaning alone cannot reach this contamination, which means the odor returns even after the carpet looks clean.
What You Should Do
Blot the area immediately with white towels, applying pressure to absorb as much liquid as possible. Use an enzyme-based cleaner designed for pet accidents if available. Keep pets away from the area until it is fully treated.
What You Should Avoid
Avoid bleach, ammonia, or harsh household cleaners — these can damage carpet fibers and set the stain permanently. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing. Avoid steam cleaning the area yourself, as heat can set urine stains and odors.
When It's Time To Call Steam Lion
Pet urine that has reached the carpet cushion requires professional odor treatment. Steam Lion targets contamination below the surface, treating both the carpet and the padding to neutralize odors at their source rather than masking them.