The White Vinegar method

by J.J.
(Denver, CO )

My elderly German Shepherds have both bladder problems. In the course of their illnesses I have had to clean the carpet repeatedly. I have found that it takes a few techniques to make it disappear.


First, the odor - I use warmed white vinegar in warm water and sponge it into the stain. That seems to help with both odor and stain. If it is too discolored, I have found that hydrogen peroxide sponged on first will take away part of the stain, and then follow with vinegar to remove the smell. I have used both a sponge and stiff bristled brush and also a small carpet cleaner for this process. With the carpet machine it seems to help to flood the area a bit.


It is really critical to use only WHITE vinegar for this process. There are many other types but most of them will leave a stain which cannot be removed. So do not use any flavored vinegar for this. Finally, after it is brushed and dried, I vacuum the area and spray thoroughly with Febreeze or a generic form of that product. It has worked for me on this light beige carpet and my friends tell me there is not a whiff of unpleasant odor.