Pets are family, but let’s face it, they can be messy! From muddy paws tracking dirt to the occasional accident, carpets often bear the brunt of pet ownership. When stains and odors strike, carpet cleaners become essential. But with a house full of furry friends, a crucial question arises: Is Carpet Cleaner Safe For Pets? It’s a valid concern for any pet owner wanting to maintain a clean home without compromising their animal’s health.
This guide dives into the world of carpet cleaners, specifically focusing on pet-safe options. We’ll explore what makes a carpet cleaner safe for your beloved companions, highlight top recommended products tested for effectiveness and safety, and provide expert tips to ensure a clean and healthy environment for both you and your pets.
In our quest to find the best and safest solutions, we tested 31 popular carpet stain and odor removers. Our testing, conducted in our New York Lab and in real homes with pets, evaluated stain and odor removal effectiveness on common pet messes like mud, urine, and simulated vomit. We consulted with experts like Jessica Ek from the American Cleaning Institute, who advised prioritizing cleaners with ingredients on the EPA’s Safe Chemical Ingredients List. Our top picks are not only effective at tackling pet messes but also formulated with pet safety in mind.
Our Top Picks for Pet-Safe Carpet Cleaners
- Best Overall: OxiClean Carpet Stain Remover
- Best Enzymatic: Kids ‘N’ Pets Instant All-Purpose Stain & Odor Remover
- Best Scented: Angry Orange Ready-to-Use Citrus Pet Odor Eliminator Spray
- Best Carpet Shampoo: Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
- Best for Fresh Stains: Woolite INSTAclean Permanent Pet Stain Remover
- Best Pre-Treatment: Resolve Ultra Pet Odor and Stain Remover Spray
Best Overall
OxiClean Carpet Stain Remover
What We Like:
- Effectively removes odors and stains in just 10 minutes.
- Features a mild, fresh scent that isn’t overpowering.
- Consistently performed as the most effective cleaner in our tests.
- Made with EPA Safer Choice ingredients, enhancing its safety profile for homes with pets.
What We Don’t Like:
- May require a second application for stubborn, set-in stains.
In our rigorous lab tests, OxiClean Carpet & Area Rug Stain Remover emerged as the top performer across all evaluation categories, from stain removal power to odor elimination. This cleaner simplifies the process of addressing pet messes quickly and efficiently. Its effectiveness is truly remarkable, making it a top choice for pet owners concerned about both cleanliness and safety.
During testing, OxiClean proved to be the most potent cleaner against fresh stains and associated odors from common pet messes like mud, urine, and simulated vomit. While it remained effective on set-in stains, a second treatment was occasionally needed to fully eliminate tougher marks. It leaves behind a light, fresh scent that is pleasant without being too strong, and the adjustable nozzle on the bottle allows for precise application, whether you need a mist or a stream.
The formula of OxiClean combines sodium percarbonate, sodium carbonate, surfactants, and a polymer to effectively lift stains and remove oils. Importantly for pet owners asking “is carpet cleaner safe for pets?”, both sodium percarbonate and sodium carbonate are included on the EPA’s list of safe chemical ingredients for household use. While the formula is designed to be colorfast, we still recommend testing it on an inconspicuous area of your carpet or rug first to ensure compatibility with the dye.
Instructions for use are straightforward: simply spray the affected area, blot with a cloth, and vacuum. Most stains and odors disappear within 10 minutes. Once the treated area is dry, it’s considered safe for both pets and children to be around, although it’s always best to keep them away from the area while the cleaner is actively being applied.
Safe Around Kids & Pets: Yes | Enzymatic Cleaner: No | Sizes: 24 ounces | EPA Safer Choice Standard: Yes
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Best Enzymatic
Kids ‘N’ Pets Instant All-Purpose Stain & Odor Remover
What We Like:
- Utilizes enzymes to break down stains from biodegradable materials, ideal for pet messes.
- Formulated to be cruelty-free and non-toxic, addressing concerns about “is carpet cleaner safe for pets?”.
- Features a light, fresh scent that is not overpowering.
- Proven to be the best cleaner for eliminating persistent urine odors.
What We Don’t Like:
- Can produce excessive foaming, making cleanup slightly messier.
Enzymatic cleaners, like Kids ‘N’ Pets All-Purpose Stain + Odor Remover, harness the power of enzymes – similar to those in your body that digest food – to tackle organic stains. Since pet accidents like feces and urine are organic, enzymatic cleaners are particularly effective. They work by breaking down complex organic molecules into simpler components, effectively eliminating urine odors by targeting uric acid at its source. This makes them a strong contender when considering “is carpet cleaner safe for pets and effective against their specific messes?”.
In our tests, Kids ‘N’ Pets All-Purpose cleaner, when fully saturating the stain and combined with some agitation, successfully removed both vomit and urine stains along with their odors. The spray has a light and fresh scent that quickly dissipates after use. While enzymatic cleaners are renowned for their effectiveness on organic messes, we were pleasantly surprised to find Kids ‘N’ Pets also performed well on mud stains, though it required two applications for complete removal.
Kids ‘N’ Pets prides itself on being cruelty-free and formulated without harsh chemicals, increasing its appeal for pet owners concerned about safety. Beyond carpets and rugs, it’s versatile enough to clean most water-safe surfaces, including clothing, bedding, and mattresses. While the label’s design has been updated to a blue and yellow color scheme since our testing, the product’s effective formulation remains unchanged.
Safe Around Kids & Pets: Yes | Enzymatic Cleaner: Yes | Sizes: 27, 128 ounces | EPA Safer Choice Standard: No
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Best Scented
Angry Orange Ready-to-Use Citrus Pet Odor Eliminator Spray
What We Like:
- Infused with a light citrus scent derived from real oranges, providing a pleasant aroma.
- Formulated without parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, appealing to pet owners seeking safer ingredients.
- Safe for use on a wide range of household surfaces, increasing its versatility.
- Effectively eliminates detectable odors, often working overnight for thorough deodorization.
- Available in both ready-to-use spray and concentrated formulas to suit different needs.
What We Don’t Like:
- May need multiple applications for set-in stains to achieve complete removal.
- Instructions recommend more scrubbing compared to other cleaners, requiring a bit more effort.
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator Spray is designed for use on various surfaces prone to pet stains and odors, including carpets, hardwood floors, tile, upholstery, and car interiors. Made with real orange peels, it not only cleans but also leaves a refreshing citrus scent, making it a good option for those wondering “is carpet cleaner safe for pets and can it smell good too?”.
Like most cleaners, Angry Orange handles fresh stains from urine, vomit, and mud more easily, while set-in stains might require a second application for complete removal. It proved particularly effective when used as an overnight treatment for odor saturation, successfully neutralizing even strong odors like wolf urine.
However, using Angry Orange does require a bit more manual effort, as the instructions suggest working the cleaner into a lather after spraying. Despite this, it doesn’t become excessively foamy, and the trade-off is a naturally scented, potentially safer cleaning experience.
Safe Around Kids & Pets: Yes | Enzymatic Cleaner: No | Sizes: 2, 24, 128 ounces | EPA Safer Choice Standard: No
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Best Carpet Shampoo
Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
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What We Like:
- Effectively removes set-in stains with just a single treatment, saving time and effort.
- Utilizes enzymatic cleaning action to thoroughly eliminate odors at their source.
- Can be used both as a standalone treatment and with steam carpet cleaners for deeper cleaning.
What We Don’t Like:
- Emits an unpleasant odor during the initial cleaning process, which thankfully dissipates.
- The large 64-ounce bottle can be heavy and somewhat difficult to pour, especially when full.
In our testing, Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo proved to be exceptionally effective. However, it’s worth noting that the product’s scent during application was initially stronger and less pleasant than the pet stains it was meant to remove. Fortunately, this smell is temporary, and its powerful cleaning action fully and permanently eliminates both fresh and set-in stains, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing effectiveness and pet safety.
This shampoo is versatile and can be used on its own for spot treatments or with a steam carpet cleaner for comprehensive carpet and upholstery cleaning. The formula is designed to be colorfast, and our test carpet looked refreshed after cleaning. As always, we recommend testing in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it reacts well with your carpet’s dye.
Safe Around Kids & Pets: Yes | Enzymatic Cleaner: Yes | Size: 65, 256 ounces | EPA Safer Choice Standard: No
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Best for Fresh Stains
Woolite INSTAclean Permanent Pet Stain Remover
What We Like:
- Effectively removes fresh stains and odors in under a minute, perfect for quick cleanups.
- Features a fresh, mild scent that is not overpowering or irritating.
- Requires minimal to no scrubbing, simplifying the cleaning process.
- Holds the EPA Safer Choice Standard, ensuring a safer formula around pets.
What We Don’t Like:
- Set-in mud stains may require more than two treatments for complete removal.
For immediate stain emergencies, Woolite INSTAClean Permanent Pet Stain Remover is designed to eradicate fresh stains and odors rapidly. This cleaner comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle, allowing for quick saturation of pet messes on rugs and carpets. For pet owners who need fast solutions and prioritize safety, wondering “is carpet cleaner safe for pets and fast-acting?”, Woolite INSTAclean is a great choice.
During our lab tests, fresh stains and odors were easily removed with minimal manual effort. For set-in stains, allowing the product to sit for five minutes, as directed, led to successful stain removal. However, older, more ingrained mud stains proved more challenging, requiring a couple of treatments to show noticeable improvement.
The product has a pleasant, mild scent that we found less intense and more manageable compared to many other cleaners tested. Once dry, the cleaned surfaces are safe for both children and pets, and we observed no issues with discoloration during our tests.
Safe Around Kids & Pets: Yes | Enzymatic Cleaner: No | Size: 32 ounces | EPA Safer Choice Standard: Yes
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Best Pre-Treatment
Resolve Ultra Pet Odor and Stain Remover Spray
What We Like:
- Comes in a straightforward, ready-to-use spray bottle for immediate application.
- Effectively removes both pet stains and lingering odors, crucial for preventing repeat accidents.
- Requires minimal scrubbing, making it convenient for quick stain management.
What We Don’t Like:
- Tends to produce a significant amount of suds, which may require extra rinsing.
Resolve Ultra Pet Odor and Stain Remover is packaged in a ready-to-use 32-ounce spray bottle, making it easy to quickly treat pet stains on carpets and rugs. Beyond just removing visible stains, this spray also neutralizes odors, which is essential to discourage pets from revisiting and re-marking the same spot. For pet owners looking for a reliable pre-treatment option and asking “is carpet cleaner safe for pets to use as a pre-treatment?”, Resolve Ultra Pet is worth considering.
In our lab tests, urine and vomit stains were easily lifted with minimal scrubbing using just a microfiber towel. For best results, it’s recommended to remove any loose dirt or dried debris from the pet stain before applying Resolve Ultra Pet Odor and Stain Remover. The stain should be thoroughly saturated, and the solution allowed to sit for five minutes to work effectively. While the cleaner does foam up as it works, this can be managed by blotting with water and a clean microfiber towel after stain removal. For stains that have been unnoticed for several hours, a second application might be necessary.
The product features a strong, clean scent that starts to dissipate relatively quickly after application. It’s advisable to handle the bottle with care, as the formula can cause eye irritation. While safe for use in homes with pets and children, it’s recommended to keep them out of the room during active cleaning.
Safe Around Kids & Pets: Yes | Enzymatic Cleaner: Yes | Size: 32 ounces | EPA Safer Choice Standard: No
Final Verdict
OxiClean Carpet & Area Rug Stain Remover stands out as our top recommendation for effectively and safely removing pet stains and odors from carpets and rugs. While set-in stains might need a repeat treatment, its reliability and color-safe formula make it a leading choice. For those prioritizing fewer chemicals and natural scents, Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator, free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates with a natural citrus scent, is an excellent alternative. Although it may require more applications, it effectively tackles odors and stains while offering a potentially safer ingredient profile.
What To Look For in a Pet-Safe Carpet Cleaner
When choosing a carpet cleaner in a home with pets, safety is paramount. The question “is carpet cleaner safe for pets?” should always be at the forefront of your decision-making process. Here are key factors to consider:
EPA Safer Choice Certification
According to Jessica Ek of the American Cleaning Institute, it’s crucial to check if the cleaner’s ingredients are listed on the EPA’s Safe Chemical Ingredients List. This list identifies chemicals that the EPA has evaluated and deemed safer for human and environmental health.
The EPA assesses cleaning product ingredients for various health and environmental impacts, including carcinogenicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity, aquatic toxicity, and environmental persistence. Products meeting the EPA’s Safer Choice Standard are also searchable in their database. Look for the Safer Choice logo on product labels to quickly identify certified pet-safe options.
Consider the Time Factor
For fresh pet messes like vomit, urine, or feces, immediate action is best. “The quicker you deal with it, the better,” advises Ek. Promptly removing as much of the mess as possible before it sets into carpet fibers is ideal. For stains left untreated for over 24 hours, professional cleaning services might be necessary for complete removal.
Understanding Enzymatic Cleaners
Enzymatic cleaners are often recommended for pet stains due to their ability to break down organic matter effectively. Cleaning specialist Jessika James notes, “Enzymes take a long time to work, which is why many carpet cleaners recommend reapplication after 30 minutes. Keeping the enzymes wet is crucial for their effectiveness.”
James also emphasizes the importance of thoroughly rinsing treated areas with water after cleaning to remove chemical residues. This helps maintain the integrity of carpets and furnishings and can prevent pets from re-marking the same spot.
Urine Scent Neutralization
Effectively removing urine scent is key to preventing repeat marking by pets. Pets have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, so even faint residual odors can attract them back to the soiled area. Ek advises using cleaners specifically designed to break down urine enzymes to eliminate odors completely.
Avoid cleaners containing ammonia or vinegar, as these can leave strong smells that might attract pets back to the area. Instead, follow Ek’s advice for pet pee accidents: blot up as much urine as possible with a dry cloth or paper towel, rinse the area with cool water and blot again, then apply a stain remover specifically formulated for pet urine.
Why to Avoid Powdered Deodorizers
Jessika James strongly advises against using powdered deodorizers, including baking soda, on carpets and rugs. Powders can reduce the lifespan of carpets by settling deep into the fibers and being difficult to fully remove.
How We Tested Carpet Cleaners for Pet Safety and Effectiveness
To rigorously evaluate carpet cleaners for pet owners, we purchased 31 different products and tested them in our New York Lab and in real homes with pets. Each cleaner was tested on a 24×24 inch beige carpet square divided into six sections. We tested three common types of pet stains—mud, wolf urine (as a substitute for pet pee), and a simulated vomit mix—on both fresh and set-in (overnight) stains.
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Before applying any cleaner, we removed excess solid material from each stain by hand or with a vacuum.
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We followed each product’s instructions, timing how quickly the cleaner activated and the total treatment duration.
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Testers evaluated each cleaner based on ease of use, odor elimination, scent, effectiveness, and overall value.
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FAQ: Is Carpet Cleaner Safe for Pets?
What type of carpet cleaning is best for pet stains and odor?
Enzymatic cleaners, such as Kids ‘N’ Pets All-Purpose Stain + Odor Remover, are particularly effective for pet stains. They break down proteins in urine, feces, and vomit, which are the primary sources of pet-related stains and odors.
Is carpet cleaner safe for pets?
The safety of carpet cleaner for pets depends on the product and how it’s used. Never allow pets in an area being actively treated. Always read the product label thoroughly and look for the EPA Safer Choice logo. Check if the ingredients are on the EPA’s Safer Choice list. Generally, once the treatment is complete and the area is fully dry, it should be safe for pets and humans. Prioritizing EPA Safer Choice certified products significantly reduces risks.
Which tools should I use with a carpet cleaner spray?
For spot cleaning with carpet cleaner sprays, microfiber cloths or colorfast sponges work well. Use a damp cloth or sponge to blot or lightly rub the sprayed area, then dry with a clean cloth or sponge. A soft-bristled brush or carpet brush can also be used to gently scrub in circular motions to lift stains.
How can I tell if pet urine has been fully cleaned up?
Pet urine detectors are useful tools for locating and revealing hidden biological stains, including urine. Even after treatment, using a black light urine detector can confirm if the area is fully cleaned or requires further attention.
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
This article is written by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets and pet owner to a happy Pomeranian named Gidget. Anna has firsthand experience using pet-safe carpet cleaners, particularly Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo, during Gidget’s potty training.
We consulted with experts like Jessica Ek from the American Cleaning Institute and Jessika James, a cleaning specialist with over 35 years of experience in the restoration industry, to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our recommendations. Our commitment to high-quality, trustworthy information is backed by our editorial process, which emphasizes fact-checking and the use of peer-reviewed studies and reputable sources.
