Summer’s heat and humidity can amplify pet urine odor in your home. We love our pets, but form time to time they will soil the carpet, sometimes severely depending on the animals size. For instance when a mid size dog, lets use a lab for instance, urinates on the carpet, it can be a multi layered issue. The urine is deposited in an acid state, penetrating the face of the carpet, the carpet backing, the pad and finally to the sub floor which is typically wood or concrete, (below grade). Over time the urine will convert to an alkaline state. When the humidity or moisture comes in contact with the contaminated area, the urine crystals are moistened, reactivating the odor. That being said, many homeowners will reach for the first thing they can grab out from under their sink! Pet soiling, bodily fluids, etc. are all protein type stains and need to be removed in a certain way otherwise they become permanent! For instance, never use harsh, store bought type chemicals as these use aggressive bleaches that can permanently damage the carpet, rather opt for an enzymatic solution and follow the labels directions accordingly. If the contamination came from a larger animal as in our example above chances are the urine has penetrated down to the sub floor, so cleaning the top of the carpet or textile will not solve the odor issue, one needs to soak the area and let the solution dwell for a period of time. Always use a cool water compress and blot the carpet, never aggressively rub as the pile may become distorted. A poultice, which is nothing more than absorbent material can also be used. Take a white, terry type hand towel, fold into quarters and lay over the area after cleaning, place a heavy object such as a gal. of water, etc. on the towel. After some time the materiel will “wick,” into the towel and your problem will generally be solved. If you need pet odor decontamination, call the Fiberking pet odor removal specialist in Geneva, St. Charles and Batavia today!