How to Remove Dog Pee From a Rug

Accidents happen, especially when you’re house training a new puppy. As adorable as they are, little mishaps can take their toll on your home, and rugs are often the first casualty. Dog urine doesn’t just leave a visible mark; it can also cause lingering odours and encourage bacteria if it’s not dealt with quickly.

The key is acting fast. There’s no instant fix for this type of stain, but with the right approach, you can reduce damage and keep your rug looking and smelling fresher.

Soak Up the Liquid

As soon as you spot the accident, use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot the area and absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push moisture deeper into the fibres.

Disposable paper towels are ideal here, as you can use plenty and throw them away afterwards. The quicker you remove excess moisture, the lower the risk of odour and bacteria setting in.

Start With Vinegar

Once the liquid has been absorbed, mix white vinegar and warm water in equal parts. Vinegar is particularly effective for urine stains because it helps neutralise ammonia, which is responsible for much of the smell.

Pour the solution over the affected area until it’s well soaked, then use a soft scrubbing brush to work it into the fibres. Focus on covering the entire stain, then blot firmly with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. Leave the area to dry fully.

Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide

When the rug is dry, sprinkle baking soda over the stained area. This helps absorb any remaining odour. Next, mix a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with a teaspoon of washing-up liquid and apply it carefully to the stain.

Gently scrub in circular motions to reach all parts of the pile. Be cautious with darker rugs, as hydrogen peroxide can cause lightening if left on too long. Once finished, rinse with cool water, allow to dry, then vacuum to lift the fibres back into shape.

Make Life With Pets a Little Easier

If muddy paws and the occasional accident are part of daily life, choosing the right rug can make all the difference. Our washable rugs are designed for busy homes with pets, so spills and stains don’t have to mean stress.

For added peace of mind, our rug stain protector creates an invisible barrier that helps prevent liquids from soaking in too quickly, giving you valuable time to clean up before stains set.

Explore our washable rugs or add stain protection to your order for a home that’s styled for real life.

FAQs About How To Get Dog Pee Out of a Rug 

How Do You Get Urine Smell Out of a Rug?

To remove urine odour, it’s important to neutralise the source rather than mask it. A solution of white vinegar and warm water can help counteract ammonia smells. After blotting and cleaning, sprinkling baking soda over the area once dry can absorb lingering odours. Vacuum thoroughly once the baking soda has sat for a few hours.

Can You Put a Rug With Dog Pee Stains in a Washing Machine?

This depends on the rug. Washable rugs are designed to go straight into the washing machine, making them ideal for homes with pets. Always check the care label first. For non-washable rugs, machine washing can damage fibres or backing, so spot cleaning or professional cleaning is the safer option.

Can You Get Pet Stain Protectors for Rugs?

Yes, rug stain protectors are a great option for pet-friendly homes. They create an invisible protective layer that helps repel liquid and prevent stains from soaking into the fibres too quickly. This makes everyday accidents easier to manage and can help extend the life of your rug without affecting its look or feel.