Expert Guide: How To Get Rid Of Dog Poop Smell On Carpet

Dealing with dog poop on your carpet is nobody’s idea of a good time. It’s messy, it’s gross, and the smell can stick around forever if you don’t clean it right. But don’t worry. You can get rid of dog poop smell on carpet. Taking the right steps quickly helps a lot. You can clean up the mess, remove the stain, and make the bad smell go away. This guide shows you how to clean dog diarrhea from carpet and other dog messes. It helps you remove dog poop stain from carpet and neutralize dog poop smell for good.

How To Get Rid Of Dog Poop Smell On Carpet
Image Source: cleanzen.com

Acting Fast: Why Speed Matters

When your dog has an accident, cleaning up fast is key. Fresh messes are much easier to handle. The longer poop sits on the carpet, the deeper it sinks into the fibers. This makes the stain harder to remove. It also lets the smell spread and soak in. Cleaning right away stops the mess from setting. It helps protect your carpet. It makes the whole cleaning job less work.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you start, get everything you need. Having your tools ready makes the cleanup smooth. You will need:

Plastic gloves (very important!)
Paper towels or old rags you can throw away
Plastic bag for the waste
A flat tool like a spatula or cardboard piece (optional, for scooping)
Cleaning solution (commercial or homemade)
Clean cloths or towels
Water
A bucket or bowl
Vacuum cleaner
Possibly an enzyme cleaner for pet waste

Having these items ready means you don’t have to stop in the middle of cleaning. This is good because speed matters.

The First Step: Removing the Solid Mess

This is the least fun part, but you must do it carefully. The goal is to pick up all the solid waste without pushing it deeper into the carpet.

h4: Steps for Removing Solid Waste

Put on your gloves. This keeps things clean and safe.
Use paper towels or rags to gently pick up the bulk of the poop.
Work from the outside of the mess inward. This stops the mess from spreading.
If some is stuck, use a flat tool like a spatula. Gently scrape under the poop to lift it. Do not smear it around.
Put all the waste and used paper towels into a plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly. Take it outside to the trash can right away. You do not want that smell inside.

This first step is just removing the physical stuff. The stain and the smell are still there. Now you need to deal with those.

Cleaning the Stain: Making the Mark Disappear

After you remove the solid poop, a stain is usually left behind. You need to tackle this quickly too. Different methods can remove dog poop stain from carpet.

h4: How to Blot the Stain

Blotting is very important. Do not rub the stain. Rubbing pushes the mess deeper into the carpet fibers. It can also damage the carpet. Blotting lifts the stain out.

Get clean paper towels or a clean cloth.
Press firmly onto the stained area.
Lift the paper towel or cloth. You will see the stain transfer to it.
Use a fresh part of the towel or a new towel.
Keep blotting until no more stain comes up onto the towel. You might use a lot of paper towels. That is okay.

This removes as much of the color and residue as possible before you add cleaning solutions.

h4: Using Cleaning Solutions

Now you can use a cleaner. There are many types. You can buy a pet odor removal carpet cleaner or make one at home.

h5: Testing the Cleaner

Always test a cleaner first. Put a little bit on a small, hidden spot of your carpet. An area in a closet or under furniture works well. Wait a few minutes. Check if it changes the color or damages the carpet. If it looks fine, you can use it on the stain.

h5: Applying the Cleaner

Pour or spray your chosen cleaner onto the stained area. Use enough to cover the stain, but do not soak the carpet. Too much liquid can damage the carpet pad underneath.
Let the cleaner sit for the time the product says. If you are using a homemade mix, 5-10 minutes is usually good. This gives the cleaner time to work on the stain.
Blot the area again with a clean cloth. Work from the outside in. This helps lift the stain that the cleaner has loosened.
Rinse the area. Dip a clean cloth in plain water and wring it out. Blot the cleaned spot with the damp cloth. This removes cleaning product residue.
Blot with a dry towel to soak up as much water as possible.

Repeat applying cleaner, blotting, and rinsing if the stain is still there. Sometimes, tough stains need a second try.

Tackling the Smell: Making the Odor Go Away

Removing the physical mess and the stain is only part of the job. The bad smell is often the hardest part. You need to neutralize dog poop smell. This means you need to break down the odor-causing stuff, not just cover up the smell. This is where products like enzyme cleaner for pet waste are very helpful. Getting the smell out completely is key to get dog poop smell out of rug or carpet.

h4: Grasping Why Poop Creates Odors

Dog poop smells bad because it contains bacteria and other organic matter. As these things break down, they release smelly gases. Normal cleaners might clean the stain, but they often don’t break down the microscopic stuff causing the smell. This is why the odor can come back, especially in humid weather.

h4: The Power of Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme cleaners are often the best enzyme cleaner for pet odor. Why? They contain special proteins called enzymes. These enzymes are like tiny workers. They break down the organic stuff in poop that causes stains and odors. They break down things like proteins, fats, and carbs. These are the things that make poop messy and smelly.

When you use an enzyme cleaner for pet waste, the enzymes eat away at the odor source. They turn it into things that don’t smell bad, like water and carbon dioxide. This doesn’t just cover the smell; it destroys it.

h5: Choosing the Best Enzyme Cleaner

Look for products specifically made for pet stains and odors. The best enzyme cleaner for pet odor will say on the label that it works on urine, feces, and vomit. Make sure it is safe for your carpet type. Always follow the directions on the bottle.

h5: How to Use an Enzyme Cleaner

Clean up the solid mess and blot the stain as much as possible first (steps above).
Shake the enzyme cleaner well.
Soak the stained area with the enzyme cleaner. Use enough to reach the carpet pad if the mess was large or liquid (like diarrhea). This is important because the odor source might have soaked deep down.
Let the cleaner sit for the time recommended on the bottle. This is often 10-15 minutes, or even longer. The enzymes need time to work.
Do NOT blot immediately. Let it air dry. Some guides say to cover the area with a damp towel or plastic wrap while it works to keep it wet, which helps enzymes stay active.
Once the area is dry (this might take a day or two), vacuum the spot.

Enzyme cleaners work best when the area stays slightly damp and they have time. The smell might even seem stronger at first as the enzymes work. This is normal. The smell should go away as it dries completely.

h4: Other Odor Neutralizing Methods

If you don’t have an enzyme cleaner, or as an extra step, other things can help neutralize dog poop smell.

h5: Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great natural odor absorber.

Clean the mess and blot the stain.
Sprinkle a generous amount of dry baking soda over the cleaned, slightly damp area.
Gently work the baking soda into the carpet fibers with a brush or your fingers (wear gloves).
Let the baking soda sit for several hours, or even overnight. The longer, the better. It pulls odors out of the carpet.
Vacuum up the dry baking soda completely.

Baking soda can be used after an enzyme cleaner has dried as an extra step to make sure all odor is gone.

h5: Vinegar Solution (White Vinegar)

White vinegar is another natural cleaner and odor neutralizer. The smell of vinegar goes away as it dries.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and cool water in a spray bottle or bowl.
Clean the mess and blot the stain first.
Test the vinegar solution on a hidden spot of carpet.
Lightly spray or blot the vinegar solution onto the stained area. Do not soak the carpet.
Blot the area with a clean cloth to work the solution in slightly and absorb some moisture.
Let the area air dry completely.
You can sprinkle baking soda on top after the vinegar dries for extra odor removal. Then vacuum.

Vinegar helps break down some of the organic materials causing the smell.

h5: Commercial Carpet Odor Neutralizer Spray

Many stores sell sprays just for carpet odors. A carpet odor neutralizer spray can be used for general freshness or after cleaning a spot.

Clean and treat the stain first using one of the methods above.
Once the area is dry, lightly spray the carpet odor neutralizer spray over the spot.
Do not over-soak.
Let it air dry.

Choose a spray that neutralizes odors, not just covers them up with perfume.

Dealing with Specific Challenges: Cleaning Dog Diarrhea

Cleaning dog diarrhea from carpet is harder than cleaning solid poop. Diarrhea soaks into the carpet faster and deeper. It also tends to have a stronger smell.

h4: Steps for Cleaning Dog Diarrhea from Carpet

Act Immediately: This is even more critical with diarrhea. The liquid will spread and soak fast.
Contain the Mess: If possible, quickly place paper towels or old rags around the edge of the diarrhea to stop it from spreading outwards.
Blot, Don’t Wipe: Use thick layers of paper towels or old rags. Press down firmly to soak up as much liquid as possible. Keep using fresh towels and blotting until no more liquid comes up. This is like dealing with a spilled drink, but much smellier.
Scrape Gentry: There might be some semi-solid parts. Use a flat tool (like a spatula or piece of cardboard) to very gently scrape towards the center of the mess. Lift the scraped material onto paper towels. Be careful not to press down or spread it.
Dispose Properly: Put all soiled paper towels, rags, and scraped material into a sturdy plastic bag. Seal it well and take it outside to the trash immediately.
Rinse with Water: Once you have blotted up most of the liquid, lightly apply clean, cool water to the area. You can use a spray bottle on a mist setting or a damp cloth.
Blot Again: Immediately blot the water back up with dry towels. This helps rinse out some of the remaining mess from the fibers. Repeat this rinse-and-blot step a few times until the towel comes up cleaner.
Apply Enzyme Cleaner: This is where an enzyme cleaner for pet waste is essential for diarrhea. Diarrhea has a high amount of odor-causing bacteria and liquid that soaks deep. Pour or spray a good amount of enzyme cleaner onto the spot. Make sure it soaks into the carpet to reach where the diarrhea went.
Let Enzyme Cleaner Work: Let the enzyme cleaner sit for the time directed on the bottle (usually 10-15 minutes or more). Keep the area damp if needed, as enzymes work best when wet.
Air Dry Completely: Allow the area to air dry fully. This can take 24-48 hours. Keep pets and people away from the area while it dries. As it dries, the enzymes continue to break down the odor source. The smell might get stronger before it gets better.
Vacuum: Once completely dry, vacuum the spot well.

Cleaning diarrhea requires patience and thoroughness because of how easily it soaks in.

Deep Cleaning Pet Stains and Odors

Sometimes, a single spot treatment is not enough, especially if there have been accidents you didn’t catch right away. Or maybe the smell lingers. In these cases, you might need to deep clean pet stains and odors.

h4: Using a Carpet Cleaning Machine

A carpet cleaning machine (sometimes called a steam cleaner, though many use hot water and cleaning solution, not steam) can help deep clean pet stains and odors. You can rent one or buy one.

Pre-Treat Stains: Treat any visible stains first with an enzyme cleaner. Let it work and dry as directed.
Vacuum Thoroughly: Vacuum the entire carpet area to remove loose dirt and pet hair. This helps the cleaner work better.
Fill the Machine: Fill the machine’s water tank according to the instructions. Use the recommended carpet cleaning solution. Some machines have special solutions for pet messes.
Clean the Carpet: Follow the machine’s instructions to clean the area or the whole room. Go over the stained areas multiple times if needed.
Use Rinsing Function: If your machine has a rinse cycle, use it with just clean water. This helps remove cleaning solution residue from the carpet. Residue can attract dirt and make the carpet get dirty faster.
Allow to Dry: Let the carpet dry completely. This can take several hours. Use fans or open windows to speed drying and prevent mildew.
Final Vacuum: Once completely dry, vacuum the carpet again.

Deep cleaning with a machine helps pull out dirt, cleaner, and odor-causing particles from deep within the carpet fibers and padding. This can be a good way to refresh carpet that has seen pet accidents.

Crafting Your Own Solution: Homemade Carpet Cleaner for Dog Mess

If you prefer natural methods or need a quick fix, you can make a homemade carpet cleaner for dog mess. These work best on fresh stains and smells.

h4: Simple Homemade Cleaners

Vinegar and Water: As mentioned above, a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and cool water works as a stain remover and odor neutralizer.
Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to make a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain, let it dry completely, then vacuum. This is good for absorbing tough smells.
Dish Soap and Water: For fresh stains, a tiny drop of mild dish soap mixed with water can help lift the stain. Mix a quarter teaspoon of clear dish soap with a cup of warm water. Apply a small amount with a cloth, blot, rinse with plain water, and blot dry. Do not use too much soap, as it leaves residue.

Remember to always test homemade cleaners on a hidden area first. Homemade cleaners are generally less powerful than enzyme cleaners for breaking down deep, set-in odors, but they are good for initial cleanup and lighter issues.

When the Smell Won’t Leave: Stubborn Odors

Sometimes, even after cleaning well, a faint smell might remain. This often happens if the mess soaked deep into the carpet pad or even the subfloor.

h4: Finding the Source

If the smell is still there, try to find the exact spot. Get on your hands and knees and sniff the carpet. Pet urine and feces odors can be very strong close up. A black light can sometimes show old pet stains that are not visible in normal light, especially urine stains, but it can also help identify areas that need more odor treatment.

h4: Treating Deep Odors

More Enzyme Cleaner: Soak the area again with an enzyme cleaner. Use enough to really get down into the padding. You might need to lift the carpet edge slightly to see if the pad is affected.
Odor Barrier Sealants: For very severe cases where the subfloor is contaminated, the carpet and pad might need to be removed. The subfloor can then be cleaned and sealed with an odor barrier product before new carpet is put down. This is usually a last resort.

Getting Rid of Dog Poop Smell Out of Rugs

Cleaning a rug is similar to cleaning carpet, but rugs can be easier because they are often smaller and sometimes washable. To get dog poop smell out of rug, follow the same steps:

Remove solid waste.
Blot the stain.
Apply cleaner (enzyme cleaner is best for odors).
Rinse and blot.
Let it dry completely.

If the rug is small and washable, after blotting the solid and most of the stain, you can often wash it according to its care label instructions. Add a pet-specific laundry additive to the wash to help with odors. Make sure the rug is completely dry before putting it back.

Prevention is Key

Stopping accidents before they happen is the best way to avoid this problem.

Proper Training: Train your dog using positive methods.
Regular Potty Breaks: Take your dog out often, especially after waking up, after eating, and before bed.
Supervision: Keep an eye on your dog when they are inside, especially puppies or new dogs.
Crate Training: A crate can help with house training because dogs usually don’t want to soil their sleeping area.
Clean Accidents Completely: Make sure you truly neutralize dog poop smell and remove the stain. If the smell is still there, your dog might be drawn back to have an accident in the same spot.

When to Call the Experts

Sometimes, the mess is too big, the smell won’t go away, or you just feel overwhelmed. Professional carpet cleaners have stronger equipment and cleaners. They have experience with pet stains and odors. If you have expensive carpet, multiple accidents, or a smell that you cannot remove, hiring a professional might be the best option. They can often deep clean pet stains and odors more effectively than home methods.

Summing Up the Process

Getting dog poop smell out of carpet takes time and effort. Here is a quick look at the main steps:

Step	Action	Goal
1. Immediate Cleanup	Remove solid waste carefully.	Get rid of bulk mess without spreading.
2. Blot the Stain	Press firmly with clean towels.	Lift as much residue as possible.
3. Apply Cleaner	Use commercial or homemade cleaner (test first).	Break down and lift the stain.
4. Rinse and Blot	Use clean water and dry towels.	Remove cleaner residue and moisture.
5. Treat Odor	Apply enzyme cleaner for pet waste (highly recommended).	Neutralize dog poop smell at the source.
6. Air Dry	Let the area dry completely.	Allow cleaners to finish working.
7. Final Vacuum	Vacuum the dry spot.	Remove any remaining residue or baking soda.
8. Check Smell	See if the odor is gone once fully dry.	Confirm the smell is neutralized.
9. Repeat or Deep Clean	Repeat steps or use machine if needed for deep clean pet stains and odors.	Remove stubborn stains and smells.

Handling pet accidents is part of having a dog. With the right supplies and steps, you can effectively remove dog poop stain from carpet and make sure the bad smell is gone. Using products like a pet odor removal carpet cleaner or the best enzyme cleaner for pet odor will help you keep your home clean and fresh. Don’t let pet messes stress you out. You’ve got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

h4: How long does it take to get dog poop smell out of carpet?

It depends on the mess and the method. Simple stains might be fine after one cleaning. For deep smells, especially from diarrhea, it can take a few days for the spot to dry completely and the enzyme cleaner to finish working. Sometimes, you might need to clean the spot more than once.

h4: Can I use bleach to clean dog poop from carpet?

No, avoid using bleach on carpet. Bleach can permanently remove color from your carpet. It can also create harmful fumes when mixed with certain cleaning products. It’s better to use cleaners made for carpet, especially enzyme cleaners for pet messes.

h4: What if the smell comes back after cleaning?

If the smell returns, it usually means the odor source was not fully removed. It might have soaked into the carpet padding or subfloor. Try cleaning the area again, focusing on really soaking the spot with an enzyme cleaner to reach deeper. If that doesn’t work, you might need professional help.

h4: Are homemade cleaners as good as store-bought ones for pet odor?

Homemade cleaners like vinegar or baking soda can help with fresh, minor odors and stains. But for dried or deep-set pet stains and odors, especially feces or urine, enzyme cleaners are usually much more effective because they break down the specific organic molecules that cause these strong smells.

h4: Can I use a regular carpet cleaner instead of a pet-specific one?

Regular carpet cleaners can help remove stains. However, pet-specific cleaners, especially enzyme ones, are designed to break down the proteins and bacteria found in pet waste that cause strong odors. Using a cleaner made for pets is often more effective at getting rid of the smell completely.

h4: Is it okay if my dog sniffs the cleaned area?

After the area is completely dry and you have vacuumed, it should be safe for your dog to be around. However, if your dog keeps sniffing or returning to the spot, it might mean they can still detect a faint odor you can’t. This could lead to another accident. Make sure the area is truly odor-free. You might even place furniture over the spot for a while.

h4: What does ‘neutralize’ the smell mean?

To neutralize a smell means to use a cleaner or method that chemically changes the odor-causing stuff so it doesn’t smell anymore. It’s not just covering the smell with perfume. Enzyme cleaners neutralize odors by breaking down the molecules that smell bad.

h4: How do I know if I need an enzyme cleaner?

If you are cleaning up any pet mess (poop, pee, vomit), an enzyme cleaner is highly recommended. It is the most effective type of cleaner for breaking down the organic matter that causes pet stains and odors. For dog poop smell on carpet, it’s your best tool to make sure the smell is truly gone.