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Pets are family. But even the best-trained dogs and cats can have accidents—especially on your favorite spot on the couch. And if you’ve ever tried to get the smell of dog pee out of a fabric sofa, you know it’s no small task.

We get it. As cleaning experts with more than 70 years of experience, we know how tough pet stains can be. 

That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide on how to remove pet stains from furniture, especially how to get dog pee stains (and smells) out of couches.

From simple DIY remedies to professional tips, here’s everything you need to know!

Act Fast - Time Matters!

When it comes to pet stains, time is your enemy. The longer urine, vomit, or feces sits on fabric, the deeper it seeps into cushions and the harder it becomes to remove.

The golden rule? Blot the stain as soon as you spot it. Don’t rub it—that just spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the fibers.

How to Remove Pet Stains Step-by-Step

Step 1: Blot Immediately

Use a clean cloth, paper towels, or a shop-vac to absorb as much liquid as possible. Press firmly to pull moisture from deep within the fabric. If you’re dealing with an older stain, skip to step 3.

Step 2: Apply Vinegar Solution

Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area until it’s damp but not soaked. The vinegar helps neutralize the ammonia in urine and kill odor-causing bacteria.

Step 3: Sprinkle Baking Soda

Generously sprinkle baking soda over the damp area. You may hear a fizzing sound—that’s good! It means the vinegar and baking soda are reacting.

Let it sit for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible. You can cover the spot with a bowl or towel to remind yourself not to sit on it.

Step 4: Vacuum It Up

Once the baking soda is completely dry, vacuum the area thoroughly. Use an upholstery attachment if you have one.

Step 5: Repeat (if needed)

For strong odors or lingering stains, repeat steps 2–4. If the stain is still visible or the smell persists, move on to the enzymatic cleaner method.

What Are Enzymatic Cleaners? And Do You Need One?

DIY methods work well for fresh stains. But when you’re dealing with older stains or deep-set smells, you need something stronger: enzymatic cleaners.

How They Work

Enzymatic cleaners contain beneficial bacteria that feed on organic waste (like urine). These enzymes break down uric acid crystals and eliminate odors at the molecular level—not just cover them up.

Recommended Brands:

• Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator
• Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator
• Biokleen Bac-Out Stain+Odor Remover

These products are widely available online and at pet stores. Make sure to choose one labeled for upholstery.

How to Use:

1. Blot up any remaining moisture.
2. Apply the enzymatic cleaner generously.
3. Let it sit for the time recommended on the label (usually 10–15 minutes).
4. Blot or vacuum depending on instructions.
5. Allow the area to fully air dry (this may take a full day).

Tip: Avoid steam cleaning pet urine. Heat can actually set the stain and make odors worse!

Home Remedies for Other Pet Stains

Pet Vomit on the Couch

1. Scrape up solids with a spoon or spatula.
2. Blot the area with a damp cloth.
3. Use the vinegar + baking soda method above.
4. Follow up with an enzymatic cleaner if the smell remains.

Pet Poop on Upholstery

1. Put on gloves and remove solids.
2. Blot with a damp cloth.
3. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of warm water.
4. Blot the stain with a cloth dipped in the solution.
5. Rinse with a clean cloth and water.
6. Use an enzyme cleaner if needed.

What If the Smell Still Won’t Go Away?

Even if the stain looks gone, your nose might tell a different story. Pet urine can soak deep into your couch cushions, padding, and even the wooden frame underneath, making it nearly impossible to remove completely with DIY methods alone.

If you’ve:

• Cleaned the stain multiple times
• Tried enzymatic cleaners
• Still smell urine every time you walk by or sit down

...you’re not imagining it. The smell can linger long after the visible stain is gone, and over-the-counter products can only do so much.

At that point, it’s time to call in the professionals. Our technicians at COIT are trained to handle deep-set pet odors with commercial-grade equipment that reaches where household vacuums and sprays can’t.

Don't let lingering smells ruin your couch. Contact COIT today for a free quote and let us bring your furniture back to life.

How Professional Cleaning Removes Deep Pet Stains

At COIT, we use commercial-grade cleaning technology that goes far beyond what you can do at home. Our process includes:

• Deep extraction: We use high-powered equipment to pull urine, dander, and bacteria from deep within couch cushions and fabric.
• Neutralizing odor treatments: Our products break down odor-causing compounds at the molecular level.
• COIT Stain Protector: We apply a fabric protector that helps repel future accidents, making stains easier to clean next time.

We also clean mattresses, carpets, and upholstered chairs. If your pet has a favorite spot, we can help keep it clean and odor-free.

FAQs: Pet Stain Removal

How do I get old dog pee stains out of a couch?

Start with an enzymatic cleaner. If the stain has dried, you may need to apply the cleaner more than once. Follow with a vinegar + baking soda treatment to neutralize remaining odors.

What if vinegar and baking soda didn’t work?

Try an enzymatic cleaner designed for upholstery. These products are made to break down urine and work better on older or stubborn stains.

Can pet stains come back after cleaning?

Yes. This is called "wicking." Moisture and residue trapped deep in the cushions can rise back to the surface. That’s why professional extraction is often the best solution.

Is it safe to use pet stain cleaners on all couches?

Always test first. Some fabrics (like silk or velvet) require special care. When in doubt, call a professional upholstery cleaner.

You Don’t Have to Live with Pet Stains

We love our pets, but we don’t have to live with the mess. 

Whether it’s a puppy still learning or an older pet with accidents, stains happen. If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of the stain or smell, give us a call. We’ll take care of it, guaranteed.

Contact COIT today for a free estimate on upholstery or carpet cleaning.

Contact COIT for a professional cleaning!