1. Act Quickly: Time is of the essence! To prevent the urine from setting in and becoming harder to remove, start the cleaning process as soon as possible.
2. Blot, Don't Rub: Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towels to blot up as much of the urine as you can. Resist the urge to rub, as this can spread the urine and make it worse.
3. Rinse with Cold Water: Take the pillow to a sink or bathtub and rinse the affected area thoroughly with cold water. Only use cold water, as hot water can set the proteins in the urine and make it harder to remove.
4. Create a Cleaning Solution: Mix a solution of 1 quart (950 mL) of cold water, 1 teaspoon of mild detergent, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. Ensure the detergent is suitable for delicate fabrics.
5. Apply the Solution: Apply the cleaning solution to the stained area of the pillow. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently work the solution into the fabric, being careful not to rub harshly.
6. Rinse Again: Rinse the pillow thoroughly with cold water to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
7. Blot and Squeeze: Gently blot the pillow with clean towels or a cloth to remove excess water. You can also squeeze the pillow gently to help release the water.
8. Dry the Pillow: Place the pillow in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Avoid exposing the pillow to direct sunlight, as this can damage the feathers or down.
Additional Tips:
- If the pillow has feathers sewn in baffles, try to separate the wet baffles from the dry ones when drying to speed up the process.
- Consider spot testing a small, hidden area of the pillow before applying the above cleaning steps.
- If the pillow has a removable cover, wash the cover separately according to the care instructions on the label.
- If you're concerned about the effectiveness of your cleaning efforts or the presence of lingering odors, consider taking the pillow to a professional dry cleaner that specializes in cleaning down or feather pillows.
Remember, cat urine can be quite challenging to remove, so the sooner you start cleaning and treat the stain, the better your chances of complete removal.