My Couch Smells Like Pee

Oh no! Your beloved couch, the centerpiece of your living room, the place where you relax and unwind, has developed an unpleasant odor. It smells like pee. How could this have happened? And more importantly, how can you get rid of the smell?

Assess the Situation

Before you take any action, it's important to determine the source of the smell. Is it coming from the cushions, the frame, or both? Check for any visible signs of urine, such as stains or discoloration. If you can't find any obvious source, it's possible that the smell has become embedded in the fabric or padding over time.

Natural Odor Eliminators

For small urine odors, you can try using natural odor eliminators such as baking soda or vinegar. Sprinkle baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for several hours, then vacuum it up. Alternatively, you can create a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar and spray it on the couch. Let it dry completely.

Enzyme Cleaners

If natural odor eliminators don't work, you'll need to use an enzyme cleaner. These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the uric acid crystals in urine, which is what causes the smell. Apply the enzyme cleaner to the affected area and let it sit for the recommended amount of time, then blot it up with a clean cloth. Rinse the area with water and let it dry completely.

Steam Cleaning

For deep-seated odors, you may need to rent a steam cleaner. Steam cleaning uses hot water and steam to penetrate the fabric and padding of your couch, removing dirt and bacteria. Be sure to use a steam cleaner that is specifically designed for upholstery.

Professional Cleaning

If all else fails, you may need to call in a professional upholstery cleaner. They have the equipment and expertise to remove even the most stubborn urine odors. However, professional cleaning can be expensive, so it should be considered a last resort.

Prevention

Once you've gotten rid of the urine smell, it's important to take steps to prevent it from coming back. If you have pets, make sure they are potty trained and that they don't have any accidents on the couch. If someone does have an accident, clean it up immediately and use an enzyme cleaner to prevent the smell from setting in.