Summer humidity is on its way here in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania and it can easily set off pet odors that have been nesting in your carpet. It can also cause pet spots and stains to mysteriously reappear. Sometimes the use of topical deodorizers and cleaning solutions is not enough to properly remove pet urine and treatment of the padding and sub-floor is required.
When pet urine penetrates the back of the carpet, you now have a breach where liquids and moisture can easily travel from the back to the face. Carpet acts much like a candle wick drawing contaminants and soil from the base to the surface. Summer’s humidity can slightly moisten the carpet and set the process in motion.
In some of my other blogs I address the removal and cleanup of pet accidents, however when odors return it usually indicates the problem may be deeper down in the padding or sub-floor. Before lifting up the carpet and exposing the carpet padding there are some other steps you can try.
Go down to your local Sporting Goods Store and purchase a “Worm Inflator”. It’s a syringe tip connected to a squeeze bottle that’s used for inflating fishing worms so they float off the bottom of the lake. Fill the bottle with the proper deodorizer and or cleaning agent and inject the solution behind the carpet into the padding and also apply topically to the carpet with a spray bottle. This will help eliminate odors from wicking back up, especially on humid days.
I suggest using a solution which contains an enzymatic digester and that can be allowed to dry to a residue. For the topical treatment always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Always consult your carpet’s warrant first and pre-test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous location. It may be necessary to re-apply a carpet protector such as “Dupont Teflon” or “Scotchgard All Fabric Protector”. Some “Odor Removal” products may destroy the original “Stain Resist” and possibly void your warranty.
Wool area rugs require a much different approach and demand more specialized attention. For a FREE ESTIMATE on your pet odor problems, visit http://www.nepacarpetcleaning.com/. Services Etcetera Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning is an IICRC/Clean Trust “Odor Control” certified firm serving the Hazleton PA, Berwick PA, Mountaintop PA and surrounding areas.