They are part of the family, but pets can be hard on hardwood floors! Below is a step-by-step guide for removing pet stains from hardwood floors from wood flooring experts.
Honest Abe Log Homes encourages you to always test the cleaning on a small area before cleaning a large spot.
- Clean up any solid matter as soon as possible. Use a paper towel or cloth to blot up as much of the stain as you can. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the stain, as this can spread it and make it harder to remove.
- Mix a cleaning solution. You can use a commercial pet stain remover or make your own by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Apply the cleaning solution to the stain. Use a cloth or sponge to blot the solution onto the stain. Be sure to cover the entire stain.
- Let the solution sit for a few minutes. This will give it time to work on breaking down the stain.
- Wipe the area clean. Use a damp cloth to wipe away the cleaning solution and any remaining stain. Be sure to use a clean section of the cloth for each wipe to avoid spreading the stain.
- Dry the area. Use a clean cloth or paper towels to blot the area dry.
- Repeat if necessary. If the stain is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat the process a few times to completely remove it. If the stain has soaked into the wood, it may be more difficult to remove. In this case, you may need to try a few different methods to fully remove the stain. Here are some options to try:
- Sand the area. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the area where the stain is located. This can help to remove some of the stain that has soaked into the wood. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain, and avoid sanding too deeply, as this can damage the wood.
- Use a wood bleach. Wood bleach can help to lighten or remove stains that have soaked into the wood. Follow the instructions on the product to apply the bleach, and be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles.
- Try a wood stain remover. These products are specifically designed to remove stains from wood and can be effective at removing even deeply ingrained stains. Follow the instructions on the product to apply it to the stain.
If the stain is still present after trying these methods, you may need to consider refinishing the wood to completely remove the stain. This is a more involved process that may require the help of a professional.
– article by Honest Abe Log Homes, ©2023
