How to Clean With Vinegar & Water for Cat Urine Smells

Once cats have anointed an area, they have a tendency to return for any number of repeat performances. This is caused, in part, by the lingering, distinctive odor of cat urine. If something smells like a litter box, the cat will see no reason not to use it as such. While there are a number of commercial products available to remedy cat urine smells, they can be pricey and may require multiple applications to correct the situation. A simple vinegar and water solution will not only save you money, but will work just as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Black light
  • Paper towels
  • 1 cup distilled white vinegar
  • Plastic spray bottle
  • Baking soda
  • Damp sponge
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the urine. Hold a black light over any areas with a lingering urine aroma and look for yellow stains. While the majority of the urine will be concentrated in a single area, it does tend to splatter. To effectively eliminate the odor, all of the urine must be removed.

    • 2

      Remove fresh urine with dry paper towel. Press the tissue against any wet areas repeatedly, soaking up as much urine as possible. Do not rub as this will work the urine further into the surface.

    • 3

      Pour 1 cup of warm water into a large bowl. Add 1 cup of distilled white vinegar and stir until the two ingredients are thoroughly blended. Transfer the solution to a plastic spray bottle.

    • 4

      Spray the affected area until the surface is completely saturated with diluted vinegar. Rub the solution in lightly with a clean paper towel. Wait for the area to dry.

    • 5

      Spread a thick layer of baking soda over the treated surface once the vinegar has completely dried. Allow the baking soda to sit for 24 hours, then brush away or remove with a vacuum cleaner.

    • 6

      Dampen a sponge with warm water and use it to wipe away any remaining residue. Repeat as many times as needed to completely remove the odor.