If you've discovered the disgusting odor of rat urine in your home or business, you will probably want to take action as soon as possible to remove the smell. Rat urine odor can be difficult to get rid of, but with a bit of effort and the right chemicals, you can make the area smell just like new again. In this blog post, we will discuss seven different ways of how to get rid of rat urine smell. Let's get started!
The first step in removing rat urine is to clean the area with a strong cleaning solution, such as bleach. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bleach bottle, and always wear gloves and a mask when handling bleach. You will also want to open the windows to ventilate the area while you are cleaning. If you're using bleach on carpet, mix it with water to prevent discoloration or damage on the floor.
Depending on how much of a smell there is, you might need several applications over a period of a day or so. As the smell of bleach wears off, the smell of rat urine should start to dissipate as well.
If you have tried using bleach and the smell is still lingering, your next step should help quite a bit. This will help to remove any lingering urine odor and also kill any bacteria that may be present. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaning product that you use, as some products may require dilution before use.
Enzyme cleaners are effective because they break down the proteins in the urine molecules similarly to how drain unclogger dissolves hair, which eliminates the smell and any left over residue. You can find enzyme cleaners at most hardware stores or online.
Another effective way to remove rat urine is to use white vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will also help to neutralize any odors. Simply soak a cloth in vinegar and then apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for several minutes before wiping it away with a clean cloth.
White vinegar helps by breaking down the acid in the urine, which contributes to eliminating the odor. You can find white vinegar at most grocery stores or online.
Baking soda is another great option for removing rat urine. Simply sprinkle baking soda on the affected area and then vacuum it up after a few hours. Baking soda will help to absorb any odors and will also leave your carpets smelling fresh and clean.
This is one of the more smell-friendly options to use after another option on this list, and can even make a bleach solution a more potent cleaner while keeping it from becoming more toxic. Just don't mix baking soda with vinegar, you might have a 5th grade science experiment on your hands.
Hydrogen peroxide is another great option for removing rat urine. Simply apply hydrogen peroxide to the affected area and then let it sit for a few minutes. After a few minutes, blot the area with a clean cloth. Hydrogen peroxide works to break down urine by oxidizing it, which helps to eliminate the odor.
Lemon juice is another natural way to remove rat urine odor, but it typically works best after the previous solutions. Simply apply lemon juice to the affected area and then let it sit for a few minutes. After a few minutes, blot the area with a clean cloth.
DO NOT use this before trying bleach/vinegar/baking soda, as you will just be adding to the previous smell. Alkaline substances like bleach break down the old smell, and acidic substances like lemon can replace it with something more pleasant. Since lemon is typically more acidic than rat urine, it will overpower small traces of the scent until it goes away.
Once you have used one of the above methods to remove rat urine, be sure to air out the area well. This will help to remove any lingering odors and will also help to prevent any mold or mildew from developing. Simply open all of the windows in the affected area and allow the fresh air to circulate.
These are just a few of the many ways that you can remove rat urine from your home or business. With a bit of effort and the right products, you can make the area smell just like new again. If you have any questions about removing rat urine, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.
If you're struggling with an ongoing rat problem, the team at Zunex Pest Control is here to help. Servicing the greater Puget Sound area, we have what it takes to treat any common household pest. Contact us today for a free quote!
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