If you’re a pet owner in Surrey, chances are you’ve encountered the not-so-pleasant task of cleaning up after your dog indoors. Accidents happen, and when they do, it’s important to know the best ways to clean up dog poop in your house effectively. So, how to clean up dog poop in house? This article will go beyond the usual tips and tricks, offering insights that most cleaning guides don’t cover. From dealing with stubborn stains to neutralizing odors, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll show you how ProClean’s Surrey house cleaning services can come to the rescue when needed.
Why Proper Clean-Up Matters
Cleaning up dog poop isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a health matter, too. Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, as well as parasites such as roundworms, which can pose risks to humans, especially children. According to the CDC, dog feces can spread diseases and contaminate your indoor environment, making thorough cleaning essentials even more crucial to handle the clean-up properly.
Step 1: Gear Up for the Task
Before you dive into the clean-up process, gather your supplies. You’ll need the following:
- Rubber gloves
- Paper towels or disposable clothes
- Plastic bags
- Enzyme cleaner (specifically formulated for pet messes)
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Scrub brush
Why enzyme cleaner? Unlike standard cleaning products, enzyme cleaners are designed to break down the proteins in pet waste, which helps to eliminate both the stain and the odor. These cleaners are particularly effective because they tackle the root of the smell rather than just masking it. Many websites miss this critical detail, which is essential for truly getting rid of the problem.
Step 2: Remove the Bulk of the Mess
Start by removing as much of the solid waste as possible. Use a paper towel or disposable cloth to scoop up the poop and place it in a plastic bag. If the poop is particularly stubborn or stuck to a carpet, using a putty knife or spatula to gently lift it off the fibers can help minimize damage to the carpet. Avoid scrubbing at this stage, as it can push the waste deeper into the carpet or fabric, making it harder to clean.
Step 3: Treat the Area Immediately
Once you’ve removed the majority of the mess, blot the area with paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture. Avoid rubbing, as this can cause the stain to spread.
Pro tip for Surrey residents: Use cold water instead of warm water. Warm water can sometimes set stains, making them more difficult to remove. This is a little-known fact, but it’s crucial when dealing with pet messes.
Next, spray the area with an enzyme cleaner. Let it sit for the recommended time on the bottle, usually between 10 and 15 minutes. This allows the cleaner to break down the stain-causing elements and prevent lingering odors.
Step 4: Neutralize Odors
Even after cleaning, dog poop can leave a persistent smell. For extra odor elimination, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the area and leave it overnight. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and works to absorb any residual smells. In the morning, vacuum it up, and the area should smell fresh.
Some websites focus on masking odors with air fresheners, but this is often ineffective. Neutralizing the smell at its source is the key to a truly clean house.
Step 5: Disinfect Thoroughly
After removing the waste and treating the stain, it’s essential to disinfect the area, especially if the poop is on a hard surface like tile or hardwood. A mixture of white vinegar and water (50/50 ratio) works as a natural disinfectant. Vinegar is safe for most surfaces and helps kill bacteria without using harsh chemicals.
For pet owners in Surrey, this step is particularly important during the rainy months. Damp conditions can encourage bacteria growth, so an extra step of disinfection will ensure your home stays safe and clean.
Step 6: Deep Cleaning for Carpets and Fabrics
If your dog has had an accident on the carpet, area rugs, or upholstery, you might need to go the extra mile with deep cleaning. After applying the enzyme cleaner and deodorizer, consider renting or using a carpet cleaner to fully remove any residue.
If cleaning feels like an overwhelming task, Surrey residents can turn to ProClean for professional deep-cleaning services. We offer thorough carpet and upholstery cleaning that’s perfect for pet owners, ensuring your home is spotless and free from any lingering bacteria or odors.
Stats that May Surprise You
- The average dog poops about 274 pounds per year.
- Nearly all households in Canada own at least one dog, making pet waste a significant concern for homeowners.
- The cost of house cleaning Surrey services to handle pet-related messes is often less than the cost of replacing ruined carpets or furniture.
Additional Tips: Most Businesses Don’t Mention
- Check for multiple accidents: Dogs are creatures of habit. If they’ve pooped in one area of the house, there’s a good chance they may have used that spot more than once. Make sure to inspect your home thoroughly.
- Invest in a UV light: If you want to catch every stain, a UV light will help you see where dog waste or urine might have dried and become invisible to the naked eye. This is particularly useful for carpets and upholstered furniture.
- Preventing Future Accidents: Once your dog poops in the house, they might return to that spot. You can discourage this by placing food bowls or toys in that area, as dogs typically avoid soiling places they associate with food or play.
- Consider hiring professionals for routine cleaning: While you might be able to handle the occasional accident, regular deep cleaning can keep your home fresher and healthier. ProClean can handle everything from carpets to upholstery, making your home a safer space for your family and pets.
Read “How to Get Motivated to Clean the House?” on our blog page today to learn more!
Conclusion
Cleaning up dog poop in the house isn’t the most glamorous task, but it’s essential for maintaining a clean and healthy environment. By following the steps outlined here, you can effectively remove stains and odors, ensuring that your home remains fresh. And remember, ProClean offers specialized house cleaning services in Surrey that can handle those tough messes when needed. Whether it’s routine cleaning or a one-time deep clean, we’re here to help keep your home spotless.
At ProClean, we understand how important it is to keep your home clean, even with pets around. We specialize in house cleaning Surrey solutions that can remove stubborn stains, odors, and bacteria left behind by pet accidents. Don’t let messes take over your home—contact us today to schedule a cleaning appointment. Our professional team in Surrey is ready to help you maintain a healthy, fresh living space. Call us now, and let us handle the dirty work!
