There’s nothing worse than that lingering stench of dried urine on your beloved couch. Whether from a pet accident, a child’s mishap, or an adult’s embarrassing moment, dried urine odours can be incredibly stubborn and unpleasant. But don’t worry, with some elbow grease and the right techniques, you can banish that funky smell for good.
As an Aussie, you know the value of a good couch. It’s the centerpiece of your living room, where you kick back with a cold one after a long day or gather with your mates to watch the footy. But that urine stench can put a damper on your relaxation. Follow these steps, and you’ll have your couch smelling fresh as a daisy in no time.
How To Get Pee Smell Out of Your Couch
Step 1: Blot and Scrape
First things first, you’ll want to remove any dried urine residue from the surface of the couch. Grab an old towel or some paper towels and blot the affected area to absorb any remaining moisture. Then, use a dull knife or spatula to gently scrape off any crusty deposits. Be careful not to rub the stain deeper into the fabric.
Step 2: Baking Soda to the Rescue
Baking soda is a miracle worker when it comes to neutralising odours. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for several hours or overnight. The baking soda will absorb the urine smell and help break down the remaining stain.
Step 3: Vinegar Power Wash
Now it’s time to bring out the big guns. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle or bucket. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodoriser, and it will help break down the uric acid in the urine stain.
Liberally spray or sponge the vinegar solution onto the baking soda-covered area, making sure to saturate the fabric. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then use a clean towel or cloth to blot the area and absorb as much of the solution as possible.
Step 4: Enzyme Cleaner for Tough Stains
If the urine stain and odour persist after the vinegar treatment, it’s time to bring in an enzyme cleaner. These specialised cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins in urine, effectively eliminating the source of the odour.
Look for an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for pet stains and odours at your local supermarket or pet supply store. Follow the product instructions carefully, as some may require dilution or a specific application method.
Step 5: Dry and Deodorise
Once you’ve tackled the stain and odour, it’s important to ensure the couch dries completely. Use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process, as any remaining moisture can lead to mould growth or lingering smells.
Finally, sprinkle some more baking soda over the area and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. The baking soda will help absorb any residual odours and leave your couch smelling fresh and clean.
Also read: Is Scotchgard Safe and Necessary for a Couch for Sofa?
Ways To Prevent Accidents and Stains on Your Couch
1. Proactive Measures
Choose Stain-Resistant Fabrics: When buying a new couch, opt for fabrics like microfiber, leather, or synthetic blends that are durable and easier to clean.
Use Upholstery Protectors: Apply a fabric protector like Scotchgard to create a barrier against spills and stains. It’s safe for most fabrics including silk and wool.
Use Slipcovers and Throws: Slipcovers and throws act as removable, washable barriers to protect the couch fabric.
Vacuum Regularly: Frequently vacuum the couch to remove dirt, crumbs, pet hair, etc. that can attract stains.
Set House Rules: Establish rules like no eating or drinking on the couch, especially with kids and pets around.
2. Reactive Measures
Clean Spills Immediately: Act quickly to blot and clean up any spills or accidents to prevent staining.
Use Stain Removers: Keep enzyme-based stain removers and odor eliminators handy for tough stains like bodily fluids or foods.
Professional Cleaning: For stubborn, set-in stains, consider hiring professional upholstery cleaners who have specialized equipment and expertise.
With a bit of patience and the right techniques, you can say goodbye to that dreaded dried urine smell and enjoy your couch once again. Just remember, prevention is key – train your pets properly, keep an eye on little ones, and be mindful of any accidents to avoid future stains and odours.
Happy couch lounging, mates!
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