If you own pets and rugs, it is important to understand how pet urine accidents can damage and stain your rug. Unlike wall to wall carpet that can be cleaned with strong cleaning and deodorizing agents, rugs are usually made out of more delicate natural fibers. Likewise, the pet urine that remains in the foundation of your rug after the initial spot cleaning, can do more damage to natural fiber rugs than standard carpet.
Urine salts continually draw moisture from the air and always have a higher moisture content than the surrounding areas. This is why pet urine odors are more noticeable when it is warm and humid. Since there is more moisture in the air, the urine salts absorb more moisture. As evaporation occurs, the moisture is release back into the air with the malodor molecule. The prolonged moisture can lead to dry rot in the base of the rug which is typically cotton.
While odor is usually a primary concern of pet stains, the obvious stain is equally a concern. Some rugs are more susceptible to permanent staining, particularly rugs that have had chemical washing processes such as luster wash or antique wash.
Finally, fiber damage can occur that likewise makes the stain harder to remove. As urine ages, the pH level raises and become more alkaline. This is concerning because Wool and other natural fibers can be damaged by high alkaline solutions. Urine that has shifted in pH will have a ammonia like odor. Many household carpet spotters are also alkaline and usually exasperate the problem.
To neutralize urine, use a vinegar solution after blotting up as much moisture as possible.
The only way to permanently stop this damage is to completely remove the pet urine damage. Typically this can only be done by professionally washing the rug. To find a quality rug cleaner in your area, give us a call at 717-848-2064.