We all have smells we just can’t stand—like the smell of urine. It doesn’t just leave a noticeable stain on your couch but also fills the room with an unpleasant odor that no one wants to put up with.

And when accidents happen with kids or pets, they always seem inevitable, don’t they? That’s when knowing a few tricks to get rid of the stains and odors really comes in handy. In this article, we’ll guide you through some simple steps to tackle the problem.

Why do Urine Have a Strong Smell?

Urine contains urea, uric acid, and other organic waste. When these substances seep into the fibers of your couch, they bond with the material, creating stains that are tough to remove. Over time, the uric acid breaks down, releasing ammonia and other smelly compounds, making the odor even worse.

On top of that, the proteins and organic matter in urine provide a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which only makes things worse. A simple surface clean won’t cut it—you’ll need more targeted cleaning methods to get rid of it completely.

7 Steps to Get Rid of Urine Odor

Step 1: Wipe the Urine Stain Immediately

The first thing to do when a urine accident happens is to stop it from soaking into the fibers. Urine seeps in quickly, so as soon as you notice the stain, grab some paper towels or a clean microfiber cloth and gently press the area to absorb as much liquid as possible.

Be careful not to rub the stain, as this will push the urine deeper into the fabric, making it harder to clean later. The key is to blot, not scrub, to effectively soak up the liquid.

Here's a little tip: layer multiple paper towels and press them down, replacing them as they get wet. If you can, cover the area with a dry cloth or paper towel, then place something heavy on top to help absorb even more moisture.

Step 2: Apply the Cleaning Solution

After soaking up the urine, it’s time to deep clean using a homemade vinegar solution. White vinegar is great for breaking down the organic compounds in urine and getting rid of the smell.

Mix one cup of white vinegar with one cup of water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the mixture over all the areas where the urine has soaked in, making sure the surface is damp enough to eliminate the odor, but not overly wet.

Once you've sprayed the solution, take a clean cloth and gently wipe the surface to help it absorb into the fabric. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes so the solution can really work its magic in cleaning and deodorizing the area.

Step 3: Use Baking Soda to Absorb Odors

After cleaning the couch with the vinegar solution, the next step is to use baking soda to absorb any remaining odors. Baking soda is a very effective natural deodorizer that can absorb and neutralize smells.

While the couch is still not completely dry, sprinkle an even layer of baking soda over the affected areas, especially where the urine has soaked in. Make sure the baking soda thoroughly covers the entire area, as it can absorb ammonia and other chemicals that cause the odor.

The baking soda needs to sit for several hours, ideally overnight, to ensure it absorbs as much odor as possible. This gives the baking soda enough time to react with any remaining urine molecules for the best deodorizing effect.

If you're worried about pets or kids getting into baking soda on the couch, you can cover the area with a dry cloth or towel to keep it effective and avoid contact. After letting it sit overnight, you can move on to the next step.

Step 4: Vacuum Up the Baking Soda

After letting it sit overnight, the baking soda will have absorbed most of the odor, and now it’s time to clean it up. Use a vacuum cleaner to thoroughly remove the baking soda from the couch, along with the odor molecules it has absorbed.

Choose a vacuum with a hose and upholstery attachment, so you can easily handle the fabric and crevices of the couch. Make sure to vacuum each area covered in baking soda multiple times, especially in the corners and gaps, to ensure no residue is left behind.

Step 5: Ventilation and Drying

The final step is making sure the couch is fully dried and well-ventilated. Open the windows or use a fan to keep the air circulating. This will speed up the drying process and help eliminate any lingering odors.

If possible, you can move the couch outside to a well-ventilated area to air out (just be sure to avoid direct sunlight). The UV rays from the sun can also help disinfect and remove any remaining smells.

Step 6: Deep Clean with Enzyme Cleaner

If the smell still lingers after the previous steps, you can try using an enzyme cleaner. These cleaners are specially designed to break down the proteins and organic compounds in urine at a molecular level, effectively getting rid of the odor.

Look for an enzyme cleaner made specifically for pet urine or other organic stains. Before using it, test it on a small, hidden area of the couch to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric. Once you’re sure it’s safe, spray the enzyme cleaner on the smelly areas, making sure to cover them thoroughly. Enzyme cleaners usually need some time to work, so let it sit for a few hours for the best results.

While it’s sitting, make sure the area is undisturbed, keeping pets and family members away. After the enzyme cleaner dries, vacuum or wipe the area clean with a cloth.

Step 7: Steam Clean

If the urine stain is really stubborn or has soaked deep into the couch, it might be time to consider steam cleaning. Steam can penetrate the fibers to remove any remaining stains and odors, plus the high temperature helps kill bacteria and sanitize the fabric.

Be cautious, though—steam cleaning can sometimes overwet the fabric, causing moisture to seep deep into the couch. After cleaning, make sure the couch is completely dry by opening windows or using fans to speed up the drying process. If possible, you can also move it outside to dry in the sun.

Using a Couch Cover: Making Life Easier

If you want to avoid future accidents, using a couch cover could be a real game-changer—it’s been a lifesaver for me! Ever since I started using the Ownkoti Pure Color Waterproof Pet Couch Cover, I no longer worry about spills like urine or drinks on my couch.

Cleaning has also become much easier. For everyday messes, you can just wipe it down with warm water and mild detergent. And if you need a deeper clean, you can simply toss it in the washing machine. It's so convenient! Plus, it’s a great way to give your couch a fresh new look while extending its lifespan.

learn more: How to Wash Sofa Covers Without Shrinking

Conclusion

Urine stains and odors on the couch can be a real headache, but with quick action and the right cleaning tools, you can handle it effectively. After all, a fresh-smelling home always feels so much more cozy and inviting!