Why Pet Odors Stick Around

Pet odors have a way of sticking around, even after you’ve cleaned everything twice. Hair, dander, and urine can trap smells deep in carpets, furniture, and drywall. The space may look spotless, but hidden odors can quietly linger beneath the surface. That’s why a good deep clean and regular ventilation are key if you really want to remove pet odor from home for good.

“We see it all the time – homeowners clean the visible mess but miss where the real odor hides. Carpets and drywall are like sponges for pet smells,” says Maria Fernandez, Cleaning Specialist at Molly Maid.

Even the tidiest home can hold surprises. Oils from fur, small spills, or accidents get absorbed into soft surfaces, only to resurface later when the weather gets warm or humid.

Common causes of persistent odor:

• Urine in subfloors releases ammonia as it dries.
• Dander on upholstery clings to fabrics and circulates through air vents.
• Moisture buildup in HVAC systems spreads pet smell through every room.
• Poor ventilation keeps stale air trapped indoors.

Improving airflow and using eco-friendly odor removal in homes keeps these smells from returning.

Natural DIY Odor Removal Methods

How to Remove Pet Odor Naturally at Home

To remove pet odor naturally, start by finding where the smell is really coming from, not just where it’s strongest. Clean the spot with an enzyme-based cleaner to break down what’s causing the odor, then sprinkle baking soda over carpets to absorb any leftover scent. A quick vinegar-and-water spray works great on hard floors, and setting out a few salt bowls or pet-safe plants can help keep the air fresh long after you’re done cleaning.

“Natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar do more than just mask odors, they neutralize them. It’s a small effort that saves big on long-term freshness,” explains Rachel Moore, Molly Maid Cleaning Specialist.

1. Identify and Treat the Source

• Use a UV blacklight to locate urine stains in carpets or on baseboards.
• Blot fresh accidents immediately to stop odor absorption.
• Apply enzyme cleaner to break down organic material at the molecular level.

These simple steps start the natural pet odor removal process before smells spread.

2. Apply Home Remedies for Pet Odors

• Create salt fresheners with coarse sea salt and essential oil to absorb moisture.
• Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and vacuum after 20 minutes to neutralize odor.
• Spray vinegar-water mix on hard surfaces to kill bacteria naturally.
• Simmer citrus peels and herbs for a quick air-refreshing boost.

These home remedies for pet odors are safe and chemical-free.

3. Deep Clean Fabrics, Floors, and Walls

To get rid of pet smell in carpet and walls, deep clean all odor-holding surfaces:

1. Vacuum carpets and furniture thoroughly to remove dander and fur.
2. Apply baking soda overnight for odor absorption.
3. Steam clean carpets using a vinegar-water or enzyme formula.
4. Wipe walls and baseboards with diluted vinegar to remove embedded smells.
5. Ventilate the room by opening windows or running fans.

Chemical Options are Fast but Risky

Are Chemical Cleaners Safe for Pet Odor Removal?

Chemical cleaners remove pet odor quickly but can release fumes that irritate pets and humans. Always choose pet-safe products, ventilate well, and avoid ammonia-based sprays.

Why chemical options appeal: They get the job done fast. Chemical cleaners can neutralize strong pet smells almost instantly, which makes them handy for quick fixes or last-minute cleanups before guests arrive.

Why they’re risky: Many of these products contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can irritate allergies or asthma, and some leave behind residues that aren’t ideal for pets or kids. It’s best to use them sparingly and always ventilate after cleaning.

“Speed isn’t everything. The safest clean is one that doesn’t leave fumes or residues behind,” notes Lacey Braswell of Molly Maid. “Pet-safe cleaners may take longer, but they protect both pets and people.”

Safer usage tips:

• Select pet-safe cleaning solutions labeled “non-toxic.”
• Rinse treated areas with water after cleaning.
• Ventilate rooms for 30 minutes minimum.
• Keep pets away until surfaces are fully dry.

Long term, limit harsh chemicals to occasional use.

When to Call Professional Odor Removal Services

When Should You Hire a Professional Pet Odor Removal Service?

If that lingering smell just won’t quit, even after a good deep clean, it’s probably time to bring in a professional. Odors that get trapped in walls, subfloors, or air ducts often need more than home remedies. Certified cleaning experts can remove pet odor from home completely using treatments like ozone, thermal fogging, or deep enzyme extraction to reach the places you can’t.

“Professional-grade odor removal uses deeper tools and safer chemistry. We treat the source instead of masking it,” explains Patricia S., Senior Technician at Molly Maid.

Top benefits of professional pet odor removal service:

• Use eco-friendly products that are safe for pets and air quality.
• Perform deep enzyme extraction to reach padding and subfloors.
• Eliminate airborne smells using ozone or fogging systems.
• Inspect for mold and moisture, common odor amplifiers.

Look for pet odor removal specialists with non-toxic certifications and satisfaction guarantees.

Long-Term Prevention and Pet-Safe Plants

How Can I Prevent Pet Odors in the Future?

The best defense is a simple routine. Clean your pet’s favorite spots each week, swap out air filters every couple of months, and crack a few windows daily to keep air moving. Adding a few pet-safe plants that naturally purify the air can also help your home stay fresh, without relying on heavy fragrances or sprays.

“Consistency matters most. A weekly cleaning habit and some greenery do wonders for air quality,” says Rachel Moore of Molly Maid.

1. Maintain a Fresh Home Routine

• Wash pet bedding weekly to reduce odor buildup.
• Vacuum with a HEPA filter twice a week for dander control.
• Wipe walls and baseboards quarterly to remove trapped smells.
• Place baking soda bowls near pet zones for continuous freshness.
• Replace HVAC filters every 2–3 months for cleaner airflow.
• Groom pets regularly to minimize shedding and oils.

2. Add Pet-Safe Plants to Eliminate Odors Naturally

Which plants help reduce pet smells naturally?
Plants like spider plant, Boston fern, and areca palm filter toxins and absorb odor molecules through leaves and roots, offering a natural way to remove pet odor from home.

Recommended pet-safe plants:

• Spider Plant – absorbs ammonia and is non-toxic.
• Boston Fern – adds humidity and filters formaldehyde.
• Areca Palm – cleans air and balances moisture.
• Bamboo Palm – neutralizes stale air smells.
• Parlor Palm – easy to grow for steady air purification.

Avoid lilies and aloe, which can be toxic to pets. One medium plant per 100 sq ft helps maintain fresh indoor air.

Conclusion

Removing pet odor from home means finding the source and choosing the right solution-natural, chemical, or professional. With regular care and pet-safe cleaning solutions, you can keep your home smelling fresh without risking your pet’s health.

“A clean home shouldn’t come at the cost of comfort. Pet-safe cleaning keeps everyone healthy – people and pets alike,” adds Briana F., Molly Maid Cleaning Specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get rid of pet smell in carpet naturally?
Sprinkle baking soda, let sit 30 minutes, vacuum thoroughly, and follow with enzyme cleaner for deep odor removal.
Can vinegar remove pet odors safely?
Yes. Vinegar neutralizes ammonia and kills bacteria on hard surfaces. Mix 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water.
Do plants really eliminate pet odors?
Yes. Pet-safe plants absorb odor-causing VOCs and balance humidity, creating naturally fresh air.
When should I hire professionals?
When smells linger after multiple cleanings or spread through ducts, hire a professional pet odor removal service.