How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell: The Complete Guide for Every Surface
You love your cat—but let’s be honest, that love is put to the test when you walk into a room and are hit with the unmistakable smell of cat urine.
Whether your cat missed the litter box or you’re dealing with lingering odors, removing the cat pee smell from carpet, clothes, furniture, and subfloors can be a challenge. But don’t worry—with the right approach, you can tackle even the toughest smells.
🧼 Step-by-Step: How to Clean Cat Urine and Eliminate Odors
Whether it’s fresh or old, cat urine contains uric acid—a compound that’s tough to remove using regular household cleaners. Here’s how to remove it effectively based on surface type.
1. 🪟 Start with Blotting or Wiping (Fresh Messes)
If the urine is fresh:
- Blot the area with a paper towel or an old cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible.
- Do not rub, as this can push urine deeper into fibers.
2. 🧹 Vacuum to Control Hair & Dander Smells
Regular vacuuming reduces pet odor by removing hair, dander, and particles soaked in urine.
- Vacuum your home at least once a week.
- Empty the vacuum bag immediately to avoid recirculating odors.
- Wash cat beds and blankets weekly to remove both smells and allergens.
🧪 Natural & Commercial Solutions to Remove Cat Pee Smell
Let’s look at what actually works—and how to apply each method.
| Cleaner | How It Works | Where to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda | Neutralizes uric acid, the key odor-causing component in cat pee. | Carpets, rugs, fabric furniture |
| Vinegar + Water | Kills bacteria and neutralizes odors thanks to its acidity. | Floors, upholstery, non-delicate fabrics |
| Enzymatic Cleaners | Break down the actual compounds (ammonia, sulfur) in urine, feces, and vomit. | Break down the actual compounds (ammonia and sulfur) in urine, feces, and vomit. |
| Hydrogen Peroxide | Oxidizes ammonia smells and breaks down compounds in fresh urine. | Carpets, subfloors, hard surfaces (test first) |
3. 🥄 Baking Soda Method
Baking soda is safe, affordable, and surprisingly effective.
Instructions:
- Sprinkle generously on the affected area.
- Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Vacuum or wipe it away.
Use this method for carpets, rugs, and couches.
4. 🍎 Vinegar & Water Spray
A simple vinegar solution works wonders on fresh cat pee.
Instructions:
- Mix equal parts white vinegar or apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray directly on the urine spot.
- Blot with a paper towel or cloth.
- Repeat until the smell is completely gone.
This is ideal for hard floors and furniture, but avoid overuse on delicate fabrics.
5. 🧬 Enzymatic Cleaners: Best for Old Smells
Enzyme-based cleaners are your best bet for deep, stubborn cat pee odors.
Why they work:
- They break down ammonia and proteins at a molecular level.
- Effective for urine, vomit, and feces.
Instructions:
- Spray the affected area thoroughly.
- Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
- Blot, scrub if needed, and air dry fully.
Always check the label—instructions may vary for laundry vs. carpet.
6. 💧 Hydrogen Peroxide for Extra Tough Odors
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizer—great for lifting deep-set urine smells.
Instructions:
- Pour directly onto the affected area.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Wipe or scrub the area.
Pro Tip:
Add 1 teaspoon of dish detergent to the solution for extra cleaning power.
⚠️ Important:
- Always test on an inconspicuous spot first.
- Hydrogen peroxide may bleach or discolor carpet or fabric if left too long.
🧱 Bonus: How to Remove Cat Urine from Subfloors
If the smell won’t go away, even after deep cleaning, it may have soaked into the subflooring.
Steps to fix it:
- Remove the affected carpet section and padding.
- Apply an oil-based, stain-blocking primer (like Kilz) to seal the odor into the wood.
- Replace padding and carpet to fully restore the area.
This is the most effective method for long-term odor elimination if urine penetrated deep below.
🐾 Final Tips to Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh
- Keep litter boxes clean and accessible.
- Provide multiple boxes in multi-cat homes.
- Identify and address stress or medical issues causing accidents.
- Wash bedding, toys, and blankets weekly.
- Use air purifiers for pet dander and odor.
Conclusion
Cat urine odor is frustrating, but not permanent. With the right combination of cleaning techniques, enzyme-based solutions, and surface-specific care, you can completely eliminate the smell and keep your home fresh.
