How to Clean Urine: Best Methods, Home Remedies & Odour Removal

Accidents happen. Whether it’s a toddler in training, an ageing pet, or a health-related issue, urine stains and odours can be unpleasant and stubborn. This comprehensive guide — based on expert cleaning experience and trusted household remedies — will help you clean urine effectively, remove smells, and prevent future build-up.

👩‍🔬 Expert Advice: Why Proper Urine Cleaning Matters

Urine contains urea, ammonia, and organic compounds that can linger, stain, and cause harmful bacteria build-up. Ignoring urine spills — especially on soft furnishings — can lead to strong odours, unsanitary conditions, and even urine scale or urine build-up over time.

🚽 What Cleans Urine the Best?

The most effective method to clean urine depends on the surface:

🧼 For Hard Surfaces (tiles, vinyl, laminate):

• Step 1: Blot with paper towels
• Step 2: Clean using a white vinegar and water solution (1:1)
• Step 3: Rinse and dry
• Optional: Add bicarbonate of soda to neutralise any lingering smells

🛋️ For Carpets & Soft Furnishings:

• Blot fresh urine immediately
• Apply an enzymatic urine cleaner
• Let sit for 10–15 minutes
• Rinse and blot again
• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda overnight for odour control

🧪 Pro Tip: Enzymatic cleaners break down the uric acid crystals found in urine — something most traditional cleaners can’t do.

🏠 What Is the Best Homemade Urine Cleaner?

Looking for a DIY urine cleaner that works? Try this natural recipe:

Homemade Urine Cleaner (Safe for Most Surfaces):

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup bicarbonate of soda
• A few drops of lemon essential oil (optional for freshness)

Mix in a spray bottle and apply directly to urine stains. Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes before blotting and drying.

This works well for pet urine, human accidents, and even cleaning urine scale in toilets.

🔬 What Kills the Smell of Human Urine?

To eliminate urine smell:

• Use bicarbonate of soda to absorb odours
• Follow up with white vinegar spray
• Apply enzymatic cleaners for stubborn smells
• Air the space and increase ventilation

Common Questions:

• Does vinegar remove urine smell?
• Yes, vinegar neutralises ammonia in urine and helps with lingering odour.
• Does bleach clean urine?
• It disinfects but doesn’t break down uric acid, so odours may return. Use with caution, especially around pets or on fabrics.
• Why does my house smell like pee but I can't find it?
• Urine odour can seep into hidden areas — under floorboards, behind furniture, or in carpet padding. A blacklight can help you find dried stains.

🌿 What Is a Home Remedy for Cleaning Urine?

Home remedies work well for light stains and routine cleaning:

Top Home Remedies:

• White vinegar – neutralises odour
• Bicarbonate of soda – absorbs moisture and odour
• Hydrogen peroxide – lifts stains on light fabrics (always spot test first)
• Castile soap – gentle but effective on hard surfaces
• Lemon juice – natural antibacterial and deodoriser. Avoid masking odours with air fresheners. Always remove the source of the smell.

💧 What Dissolves Urine Build-Up?

Urine scale in toilets or urinals is a result of dried uric acid and minerals. Here's how to remove it:

Toilet Cleaner for Urine Scale:

• Pour in white vinegar and leave overnight
• Scrub using a toilet brush
• Use bicarbonate of soda for extra scrubbing power
• Repeat as needed

Commercial products that target uric acid may be needed for stubborn build-up.

💡 FAQs

What can I use to clean dried urine?

• Hydrogen peroxide and bicarbonate mix is great for lifting dried stains.

How long does urine smell last in bed?

• Without cleaning: weeks or more.
• With proper enzymatic treatment: typically gone in 1–2 days.

What neutralises urine smell?

• Enzyme-based cleaners, white vinegar, or baking soda.

Will salt soak up urine?

• No — salt doesn’t neutralise odour or break down urine compounds.

✅ Final Thoughts

Cleaning urine doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right tools and scientifically backed methods, you can remove stains, eliminate smells, and maintain a clean, healthy space.

Whether you're tackling pet accidents, helping an elderly relative, or cleaning after a child's accident, these remedies and products can restore freshness and hygiene to your home.

Trusted by professional cleaners in the UK.

Need help with urine odour in carpets, upholstery or bedding?

👉 Book a professional stain removal service with NG1 City Cleaners today.