Using your nose. Pet urine has a very distinct smell and often smells like ammonia. [3] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Using a blacklight. Because of its chemical properties, pet urine shows up under a blacklight, specifically its scent-creating chemicals even when the stain has been dried or are days old. Outline these area in chalk or mark then with a sticky note to help you clean then when you turn on the lights. [4] X Research source

You can place the soaked up newspaper or paper towel where you’d like your pet to urinate. This is a positive way to help let them know where to urinate as you’ll be transferring their urine smell to the appropriate location.

You may need to repeat this step again if the enzymatic cleaner doesn’t get rid of the odor or stain the first time. Urine is composed of things that require enzymes to break down its chemical bonds. [7] X Research source For example, when a pet pees, urea in their urine breaks down into a bacteria that produces the distinct scent of urine. As the urine is left longer to decompose, the smells become worse. Fortunately, most chemicals in urine are easily removed by water and other household detergents. However, uric acid is the only component that is not water-soluble and must be broken down by enzymes.

It can take a long time, even days, for the stain to completely dry, especially if the stain is particularly deep and more enzymatic cleaner was needed. Aluminum foil is a great deterrent tool to use to discourage your pet from urinating in the upholstery again. The crinkly sound and feel of foil when your pet steps on it is not pleasing to your pet or might even scare them off of the upholstery completely. [9] X Research source For pillows or cushions, you can leave them out in the sun to dry as long as you can.

In time, the smell of urine will surface again and your pet will be able to smell it and associate the location as an appropriate place to urinate.

Soak up as much urine as possible from the upholstery before you use any cleaning agent. Sprinkle baking soda on the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes. The baking soda will work to deodorize the stain. [12] X Research source In a spray bottle, mix equal parts of water and distilled white vinegar. Alternatively, you can just use a container or a bowl. Spray or pour the water and vinegar mixture directly onto the baking soda-covered stain. Let it sit for another 5 minutes. Blot the stain with a towel or paper towel to dry. Use vinegar cautiously by thoroughly diluting it with water and only using it with baking soda, rather than separately. [13] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Strong chemical odors, including vinegar, can encourage some dogs to reinforce scent marks. [14] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source

Soak up as much urine as possible from the upholstery before you use any cleaning agent. Sprinkle baking soda on the stain and let it sit for 5 minutes. The baking soda will work to deodorize the stain. Mix half a cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of dish detergent in a bowl. Pour the hydrogen peroxide mixture onto a towel and blot it on the stain.

This method does not clean or remove urine stains. It only helps to add a fresh smell to your home.