If you have pets, you know accidents happen.
One minute everything is fine, and the next you’re wondering where that smell is coming from — only to realize your dog or cat has had an accident on the couch, carpet, or rug.
Instead of running out to buy expensive cleaners, I tried a simple homemade pet odor eliminator trick that uses something most of us already have sitting in the bathroom.
And surprisingly… it worked.
This DIY pet odor eliminator spray is incredibly simple, inexpensive, and works on couches, carpets, mattresses, and other fabrics.
Homemade Pet Odor Eliminator Spray That Actually Works
Pet smells can linger long after the mess is cleaned up. Many store-bought cleaners only mask odors instead of actually removing them.
This simple homemade trick helps pull odor out of fabric instead of covering it up.
It’s one of those old school cleaning hacks that has been passed around for years because it really does work.
Why Pet Odors Are Hard to Remove
Pet urine and accidents soak deep into fabrics, padding, and carpet fibers.
That’s why the smell sometimes comes back even after cleaning.
Common places pet odors linger:
- Carpet and rugs
- Couch cushions
- Pet beds
- Mattresses
- Upholstered chairs
Removing the odor completely requires neutralizing the smell and absorbing the moisture.
Homemade Pet Odor Eliminator Recipe
This is one of the easiest DIY cleaning solutions you can make.
Ingredients
- 2 parts water
- 1 part mouthwash
- Newspaper
That’s it.
How to Remove Pet Odor From Furniture or Carpet
- Mix 2 parts water with 1 part mouthwash in a spray bottle.
- Spray the affected area until damp.
- Lay several sheets of newspaper over the spot.
- Allow the newspaper to absorb the moisture and odor.
- Leave it until completely dry.
The newspaper helps draw the smell out while the mouthwash neutralizes the odor.
Does This Work on Old Pet Smells?
Yes — but older odors may require repeating the process.
If the smell has been there awhile:
- Spray again after it dries
- Let the newspaper absorb the moisture again
- Repeat 2–3 times if necessary
Most odors disappear completely after a couple treatments.
Other Ways to Use This DIY Odor Spray
This homemade cleaner can help remove other household odors too.
You can use it on:
- Mattresses
- Upholstered furniture
- Carpet spots
- Vomit accidents
- Musty fabric smells
It’s one of those budget cleaning tricks that works surprisingly well.
Why I Love Simple Cleaning Hacks Like This
If you know me, you know I love finding simple ways to save money around the house.
Between pets, farm animals, and everyday life, there are always messes to clean up.
Instead of constantly buying expensive cleaners, I like finding easy homemade solutions that actually work.
Sometimes the simplest tricks are the best ones.
More Simple Cleaning Tips
If you like easy household hacks, you might also enjoy:
- Homemade Dog Shampoo
- How to Get Wrinkles Out of Clothes Without an Iron
- Laundry Room Organization Ideas
- Cleaning Command Center
- How to Remove Common Laundry Stains
FAQ
What neutralizes pet urine smell?
Mouthwash helps neutralize odors while newspaper absorbs moisture and odor from fabrics.
Does this work on dog urine?
Yes, this method works on both dog and cat accidents.
Can I use this on couches?
Yes. It works well on most upholstered furniture and carpet.
Why does newspaper help remove odors?
Newspaper absorbs moisture and pulls odor from fabric fibers as it dries.
