How to Get Urine Smells Out of Clothes: 6 Methods

IS IT DIFFICULT TO GET PEE SMELLS OUT OF CLOTHES?

Urine contains proteins and uric acid crystals that can bond tightly with fabric fibers, making odors and yellow stains challenging to remove if not treated properly. Acting quickly makes removal easier.

6 METHODS TO GET URINE SMELL OUT OF CLOTHING

There are several methods that can help remove urine smells, including cat pee odors, from clothing. Always check care labels and follow the instructions on your cleaning products for best results first.

1. ENZYME CLEANERS

These types of cleaners are effective at helping to remove urine stains by breaking down the proteins and uric acid that cause lingering odors.

2. WHITE VINEGAR

Combine vinegar with hot water and soak the clothing item for at least an hour—or overnight for stronger odors. Be sure to rinse thoroughly before washing, as vinegar shouldn’t be poured directly into the washing machine. Note that vinegar is slightly acidic and not recommended for regular use on garments. It should generally be avoided for delicate fabrics or items containing elastic, like a fitted sheet.

3. BAKING SODA

Similar to white vinegar, baking soda can also help neutralize odors. But avoid mixing the two, and always rinse thoroughly before proceeding. Create a paste using equal parts baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let the item soak in water for about 30 minutes or longer for stubborn odors. You can also boost odor removal by adding half a cup of baking soda to your wash along with detergent.

4. OXYGEN BLEACH

Oxygen bleach can be used on dried or set-in urine stains, but always check the care tag and spot-test first. Dab a small amount on an inside seam, wait a few minutes and check for discoloration. If there’s no discoloration, mix with cool water, per package directions, and soak the item for at least 30 minutes. After soaking, wash in warm water with regular detergent.

5. FABRIC SOFTENER OR LAUNDRY BOOSTERS

Adding fabric softener or laundry boosters to your wash may help eliminate certain pet or urine odors from clothing.

6. STEAM DRY

Using a steam cycle might help reduce some odors in freshly washed or lightly worn clothes. The combination of heat and moisture works to help lift and neutralize lingering smells during drying.

HOW DO YOU GET OLD URINE SMELLS OUT OF CLOTHES?

To remove old urine smells from clothes, mix color-safe oxygen bleach with cool water, per package directions. Submerge the item and soak for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for stubborn stains), then wash in the warmest water safe for the fabric. Always check care labels and avoid heat drying.

TIPS FOR GETTING STUBBORN PEE SMELLS OUT OF CLOTHES

Urine and other lingering odors can be tough to remove, even after washing. But the pointers below might help. As always, check your clothing care tag before laundering.

• Use an odor-fighting detergent: Some detergents contain enhanced odor-fighting ingredients that target tough smells.

• Choose the right wash cycle: For urine stains, use a normal or heavy duty setting for durable fabrics. These cycles usually offer more water and longer agitation, which can help when you're combatting stubborn stains.

• Adjust the water temperature: Cold water is ideal for treating urine stains, as hot water can set the proteins and make removal harder. For best results, rinse or soak the affected area in cold water right away. After pretreating, wash the item in warm or hot water if the fabric allows—always check the care label first.

• Run an extra rinse cycle: If your washer offers an extra rinse setting, it may help remove odors from heavily soiled laundry by thoroughly rinsing out lingering smells.