How to Get Dog Poop Stains Out of Carpet
We love our dogs, but accidents happen—especially on carpets. And let’s be honest, cleaning up dog poop is never fun, but it’s even worse if it leaves behind stains and a lingering odor.
The key is to act quickly and use the right methods to tackle the mess without damaging your carpet.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean dog poop off your carpet and get rid of those stubborn stains.
Step 1: Scoop Up the Solid Matter (ASAP)
The first step is the least glamorous: scoop up the poop. Use a plastic bag or disposable gloves to carefully pick up as much of the solid waste as possible. The quicker you get to this, the better, as it’ll prevent the poop from being ground further into the carpet fibers.
Tip: If the poop is more on the solid side, you’ll have an easier time removing it. If it’s a little messier, use a spoon or spatula (something you’ll definitely want to toss afterward) to scrape up the excess.
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Start Training Today! 🐾Step 2: Blot the Area (Don’t Rub!)
Once you’ve removed the solid matter, it’s time to blot up any remaining moisture. Grab some paper towels or a clean cloth and gently press down on the stained area. Do not rub the stain—rubbing will only push the mess deeper into the carpet and spread it around.
Blotting helps to absorb any lingering moisture without making the stain worse.
Step 3: Use a Carpet Cleaner or Dish Soap Solution
Now it’s time to bring in the cleaning solution. You can use a carpet cleaner specifically designed for pet stains, or if you’re in a pinch, make your own. Here’s a simple DIY solution:
- Mix two cups of warm water with one tablespoon of dish soap (make sure it’s a mild, non-bleach detergent).
- Add one tablespoon of white vinegar to the mix to help neutralize odors.
Apply the solution to the stained area with a clean cloth or sponge, and gently blot the stain. Work from the outside in to avoid spreading the mess further.
Step 4: Rinse with Clean Water
Once you’ve blotted the stain with the cleaning solution, it’s important to rinse the area with a little clean water. This helps to remove any soap residue, which can attract dirt and make the carpet look grimy over time.
Blot again with a clean towel or paper towels to absorb the excess moisture.
Step 5: Baking Soda for Odor Control
Even after you’ve cleaned up the visible mess, you might still have an unpleasant odor lingering in your carpet. Baking soda is a fantastic, natural deodorizer that can help.
Generously sprinkle baking soda over the cleaned area and let it sit for several hours—overnight if possible. The longer it sits, the more odor it will absorb.
Once the baking soda has had time to work its magic, vacuum it up thoroughly.
Step 6: Use an Enzymatic Cleaner (If Needed)
If you’re still noticing a smell or stain, it might be time to bring in the big guns: an enzymatic cleaner. These cleaners are specifically designed to break down organic matter like poop and urine, which is what causes the lingering odor.
Follow the instructions on the cleaner bottle—most will tell you to spray the area, let it sit for a specified time, and then blot up the excess.
Step 7: Dry the Area Completely
Once you’ve finished cleaning, make sure the area is completely dry. Leaving moisture in the carpet can lead to mildew or mold, which only creates more problems down the line. Use a fan or open windows to speed up the drying process, and avoid walking on the carpet until it’s fully dry.
FAQs
Q: What if the dog poop has already dried?
A: If the stain has dried, you can still clean it using the same steps. You may need to use a bit more elbow grease when applying the cleaning solution, and you might want to repeat the enzymatic cleaner step for extra stubborn stains.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean dog poop stains?
A: Avoid bleach! Bleach can damage your carpet fibers and discolor them, especially if your carpet isn’t white. Stick with gentler cleaners like dish soap, vinegar, and enzymatic cleaners.
Q: How do I stop my dog from pooping on the carpet again?
A: Consistent potty training and making sure your dog has plenty of outdoor bathroom breaks can help prevent future accidents. If the accidents continue, it might be worth looking into behavioral or health issues with your vet.
Final Thoughts
Getting dog poop stains out of your carpet might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s totally doable with the right approach. By acting fast, using the right cleaning solutions, and following up with baking soda or an enzymatic cleaner, you can remove stains and odors effectively.
And once your carpet is clean and fresh again, let’s hope your furry friend sticks to doing their business outside from now on!
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
