How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of A Blanket: Easy Guide

Can you get cat pee smell out of a blanket? Yes, you absolutely can! With the right approach, you can successfully eliminate cat urine odor from blanket materials and restore them to their fresh, clean state. This guide will walk you through the best methods for remove cat pee smell from fabric, tackling everything from fresh accidents to stubborn, set-in odors.

Dealing with a blanket that has been peed on by your feline friend can be disheartening. The strong, acrid smell of cat urine is notoriously difficult to tackle, and blankets, with their absorbent fibers, can quickly become saturated with the odor. But don’t despair! This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to effectively eliminate cat urine odor from blanket and banish those unpleasant smells for good. We’ll explore various methods, from simple household remedies to specialized cleaners, ensuring you find the best way to clean cat urine off blanket for your situation.

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The Science Behind the Smell

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s helpful to know why cat urine is so pungent and persistent. Cat urine contains uric acid crystals. Unlike regular urine, which dissolves in water, these crystals are not water-soluble. This means that simply washing the blanket with regular detergent might not fully remove the odor. The uric acid crystals remain embedded in the fabric, and when humidity or moisture is present, these crystals can reactivate, releasing the distinctive and unpleasant smell. This is why deep cleaning cat urine smell from blankets is crucial.

Immediate Action: The First Few Minutes Matter

When you discover a pee-accident on a blanket, acting quickly is paramount. The sooner you address the issue, the easier it will be to remove cat urine smell from fabric.

Blot, Don’t Rub!

1. Gather Supplies: You’ll need paper towels or clean, absorbent cloths.
2. Blot the Area: Gently press the paper towels onto the wet spot. The goal is to absorb as much of the liquid as possible.
3. Avoid Rubbing: Rubbing can push the urine deeper into the blanket fibers, making it harder to remove the odor later.

Pre-Treatment: Breaking Down the Urines

Once you’ve blotted up excess moisture, it’s time for pre-treatment. This step is vital for neutralizing the uric acid before washing.

Natural Cat Pee Odor Removal from Blankets: Vinegar Solution

One of the most effective natural cat pee odor removal from blankets is using white vinegar. Vinegar is acidic and can help break down the uric acid crystals.

How to Make a Vinegar Solution:

• Mix: Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Apply: Generously spray the affected area of the blanket. Ensure it soaks through to the backing.
• Let it Sit: Allow the vinegar solution to sit on the blanket for at least 10-15 minutes. You can even let it sit for longer if the odor is strong.
• Blot Again: After the time is up, blot the area again with clean paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture and loosened urine.

Baking Soda: A Natural Deodorizer

Baking soda is another fantastic natural cat pee odor removal from blankets and a powerful deodorizer. It works by absorbing odors.

Using Baking Soda:

1. Sprinkle Generously: After the vinegar treatment (or as an alternative if you don’t have vinegar), sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the damp spot.
2. Let it Dry: Allow the baking soda to sit and absorb the odor. This can take several hours or even overnight.
3. Vacuum: Once completely dry, vacuum up the baking soda thoroughly.

Hydrogen Peroxide: A Stronger Natural Option (Use with Caution)

For tougher stains and odors, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and a drop of dish soap can be very effective. However, it’s crucial to test this on an inconspicuous area of the blanket first, as hydrogen peroxide can bleach certain fabrics.

Hydrogen Peroxide Mixture:

• Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide
  • 1 tablespoon of baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap (like Dawn)
• Mix: Gently mix the ingredients in a bowl or spray bottle. Avoid vigorous shaking, as this can activate the peroxide too quickly.
• Apply: Lightly dab or spray the solution onto the affected area.
• Let it Work: Allow it to sit for about 15-20 minutes.
• Blot: Blot away excess moisture.
• Rinse (Optional): You might want to gently rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue before washing.

Washing the Blanket: The Core of the Cleaning Process

After pre-treatment, it’s time to wash the blanket. This is where you’ll aim to wash a blanket with cat pee on it effectively.

The Role of Enzymatic Cleaners

When dealing with pet odors, especially cat urine, enzymatic cleaner for cat pee on blankets is your best friend. These cleaners contain beneficial enzymes that break down the organic molecules in urine, effectively eliminating the odor at its source. Regular detergents often just mask the smell.

How to Use Enzymatic Cleaners:

1. Choose a Quality Product: Look for enzymatic cleaners specifically designed for pet stains and odors. Brands like Nature’s Miracle, Rocco & Roxie, or Simple Solution are often recommended.
2. Follow Product Instructions: Each product may have slightly different instructions, but generally, you’ll pre-soak the blanket or add the enzymatic cleaner directly to the wash cycle.
3. Pre-Soaking: For heavily soiled or smelly blankets, pre-soaking is highly recommended.
   • Fill a basin or bathtub with cool or lukewarm water.
   • Add the recommended amount of enzymatic cleaner.
   • Submerge the blanket completely, ensuring the affected areas are fully saturated.
   • Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or as directed by the product. Some recommend soaking for several hours or overnight for extremely stubborn odors.
4. Washing Machine Cycle:
   • Transfer the blanket to your washing machine.
   • Add your regular laundry detergent.
   • If the enzymatic cleaner is concentrated and meant for machine washing, add it according to the product’s instructions (often in the detergent compartment or directly into the drum).
   • Use the hottest water temperature the blanket’s fabric can safely handle. Check the care label.
   • Select a heavy-duty or extra rinse cycle to ensure all the cleaner and any remaining urine residue is washed away.

What About Regular Detergents?

While regular detergents won’t fully eliminate the uric acid, they are still necessary for removing dirt, oils, and other common stains. Using a good quality detergent alongside an enzymatic cleaner will yield the best results for a washable blanket cat urine odor.

Homemade Solutions for Cat Pee Smell on Blankets: Adding Enhancers to the Wash

If you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner readily available, you can boost your regular wash with some homemade solutions for cat pee smell on blankets:

• Vinegar in the Rinse Cycle: Add 1-2 cups of white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment or directly into the rinse cycle. This helps neutralize odors.
• Baking Soda in the Wash Cycle: Add 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the washing machine drum along with your detergent.

Drying the Blanket: The Final Frontier

Proper drying is crucial to prevent odors from returning and to ensure the blanket is fully refreshed.

Air Drying is Best

1. Check the Care Label: Always refer to the blanket’s care label for drying instructions.
2. Hang or Lay Flat: If possible, air dry the blanket. Hang it on a clothesline or lay it flat on a clean surface, turning it periodically to ensure even drying.
3. Avoid Direct Sunlight (Sometimes): While sunlight can naturally kill some bacteria and help with odors, prolonged exposure can fade certain colors or damage delicate fibers. A well-ventilated area is usually sufficient.

Tumble Drying: Use with Caution

If you must use a dryer:

1. Low Heat Setting: Use the lowest heat setting available. High heat can “bake in” any residual odors, making them even harder to remove.
2. Dryer Balls: Consider using wool dryer balls. They help fluff the blanket and can improve air circulation, leading to more efficient drying.
3. Check for Odors Before Full Drying: Before the blanket is completely dry, remove it and sniff it. If you detect any remaining urine smell, do not put it in the dryer again. Instead, repeat the washing and pre-treatment steps. The heat from the dryer will make the odor much more difficult to eliminate.

Tackling Stubborn Smells: Deep Cleaning and Persistent Odors

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a faint odor might linger. This is where getting rid of stubborn cat pee smell from blankets comes into play.

Repeat Treatments

If the odor persists after the first wash, don’t be discouraged. Cat urine is notoriously tenacious. You may need to repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps.

• Soak Longer: Extend the soaking time with the enzymatic cleaner.
• Multiple Washes: A second or even third wash cycle, especially with an enzymatic cleaner, might be necessary for heavily soiled items.

Oxygen Bleach (Color-Safe Bleach)

For durable fabrics that can tolerate it, oxygen bleach can be a good option for deep cleaning cat urine smell from blankets. Unlike chlorine bleach, which can damage certain fibers and react poorly with urine, oxygen bleach is safer for most fabrics and helps break down organic stains and odors.

Using Oxygen Bleach:

1. Check Label: Ensure your blanket’s care label allows for oxygen bleach.
2. Follow Product Instructions: Mix the oxygen bleach with water according to the product’s directions.
3. Soak: Soak the blanket in the solution for the recommended time.
4. Wash: Wash as usual, ideally with an enzymatic cleaner in the wash cycle.

Professional Cleaning

If you have a very delicate or expensive blanket, or if all your attempts to remove cat pee smell from fabric have failed, consider professional carpet or upholstery cleaning services. They have specialized equipment and stronger solutions that can tackle even the most persistent odors.

Preventive Measures: Stopping Future Accidents

Once you’ve successfully cleaned your blanket, it’s essential to address the root cause of the accident to prevent recurrence.

Litter Box Hygiene

• Cleanliness: Ensure the litter box is scooped daily and cleaned thoroughly at least once a month.
• Number of Boxes: The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra.
• Litter Type: Some cats are particular about the type of litter they use. Experiment with different textures and scents if needed.

Medical Issues

• Veterinary Check-up: Sudden changes in litter box habits can indicate underlying medical issues such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney problems, or diabetes. A vet visit is crucial to rule out health concerns.

Behavioral Issues

• Stress and Anxiety: Cats can urine mark due to stress, anxiety, or territorial issues. Changes in the household, new pets, or conflict with other cats can trigger this behavior.
• Pheromone Diffusers: Products like Feliway can help create a calming environment for your cat.
• Consult a Professional: If you suspect behavioral issues, consult with a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist.

Can You Wash a Blanket with Cat Pee on it in a Top-Load Washer?

Yes, you can wash a blanket with cat pee on it in a top-load washer. The key is to ensure the blanket is fully submerged and saturated with water and cleaning solutions. If your top-load washer has an agitator, be mindful of how the blanket spins; you might want to pause the cycle to reposition it to ensure even cleaning. Always use the appropriate amount of cleaner and the hottest water safe for the fabric.

What is the best way to clean cat urine off a blanket?

The best way to clean cat urine off blanket involves a multi-step process focusing on neutralization and deep cleaning. This typically includes immediate blotting, pre-treatment with an enzymatic cleaner or a vinegar solution, followed by washing the blanket in the hottest water safe for the fabric, ideally with an additional dose of an enzymatic cleaner. Air drying is preferred.

Key Takeaways for Blanket Cleaning Success

Step	Method	Notes
Immediate Action	Blotting	Absorb as much liquid as possible. Do not rub.
Pre-Treatment	Enzymatic Cleaner / Vinegar Solution	Breaks down uric acid. Allows to soak for 15-30 minutes or longer.
	Baking Soda	Sprinkle generously, let dry, then vacuum. Helps absorb odors.
Washing	Enzymatic Cleaner + Regular Detergent	Use hottest water safe for fabric. Extra rinse cycle is beneficial.
	Vinegar in Rinse Cycle (Alternative)	Adds deodorizing power.
Drying	Air Dry	Best option. Hang or lay flat to dry.
	Tumble Dry (Low Heat)	Use only if necessary. Check for odor before completely dry.
Stubborn Odors	Repeat Treatments	Longer soaking, multiple washes.
	Oxygen Bleach (Color-Safe)	For durable fabrics. Test first.
	Professional Cleaning	For delicate items or persistent odors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should I soak a blanket with cat pee in enzymatic cleaner?
A: For lightly soiled blankets, 30 minutes might suffice. For heavily soiled or smelly blankets, soaking for several hours or overnight can be very effective. Always refer to the specific product’s instructions.

Q: Can I use bleach on a blanket with cat pee?
A: It’s generally not recommended to use chlorine bleach. Chlorine bleach can react with the ammonia in urine and create toxic fumes. It also doesn’t effectively break down the uric acid crystals and can sometimes set the stain. Oxygen bleach (color-safe bleach) is a safer alternative if the fabric can tolerate it.

Q: Will the smell come back after washing?
A: If the urine has been fully neutralized and removed with an enzymatic cleaner and proper washing, the smell should not return. If it does, it indicates that some of the uric acid crystals may have remained, and another treatment is needed.

Q: My blanket still smells faintly of cat pee after washing and drying. What should I do?
A: This is a common issue with stubborn odors. Try pre-soaking the blanket again with a concentrated enzymatic cleaner solution for several hours or overnight. You can also try adding baking soda to the wash cycle and vinegar to the rinse cycle. Ensure you are using the hottest water temperature the fabric can withstand. If the odor persists, a professional cleaning might be the best option.

Q: Is it safe to put a cat-peed-on blanket in the same wash as other items?
A: It’s best to wash a blanket with cat pee on it separately, especially if it’s a heavy contamination. This prevents the odor and any residual urine from transferring to other items.

By following these detailed steps, you can confidently tackle cat urine odors and bring your blankets back to a fresh, clean state. Remember, patience and the right products are key to getting rid of stubborn cat pee smell from blankets and enjoying a odor-free home once more.