Top 5 Pet Odor Eliminators for Carpet Reviewed

Does your home still smell like ‘wet dog’ even after you clean the carpet? You love your furry friends, but their odors can linger stubbornly. It feels like you scrub and spray, yet that distinct pet smell always returns. Finding the perfect carpet odor eliminator feels like a never-ending quest.

The market floods with products claiming to erase pet smells instantly. Some mask the odor with strong perfume, which only mixes with the bad smell. Others simply don’t work on deep-set stains. You worry about using harsh chemicals around your kids or pets, adding another layer of stress to the cleaning process.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what actually works to permanently neutralize pet odors in your carpet. You will learn to spot the best ingredients and avoid common traps. Get ready to reclaim a fresh-smelling home!

Top Pet Odor Eliminator For Carpet Recommendations

No. 1
Arm & Hammer Pet Fresh Carpet Odor Eliminator Plus Oxi Clean Dirt Fighters (Pack of 3), 48.9 Ounce
  • Eliminates Odors & Releases Pet Hair and Dirt
  • Vacuum Booster - Helps vacuums lift up to 25% more dirt
  • Leaves behind a pleasant fragrance for long lasting freshness
  • Excellent on pet accidents, dirt and debris
  • Also absorbs and eliminates odors from smoke, mold and mildew
No. 2
Resolve Pet Expert Stain and Odor Remover, Carpet Cleaner, Pet Stain and Odor Remover, Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner - Removes Stains and Odors, 22 oz
  • 1. DESTROYS URINE ODORS THE FIRST TIME Urine elimination technology neutralizes and removes odors on contact for immediate freshness
  • 2. REMOVES PET STAINS AND MORE Penetrates deep to lift and remove tough pet stains like feces, vomit, dirt and their odors
  • 3. HELPS PREVENT REMARKING Discourages pets from returning to make a mess in the same spot
  • 4. SAFE FOR ALL SOFT SURFACE AREAS Effective of carpets, upholstery, and area rugs for versatile cleaning.
  • 5. FROM THE #1 PET MESS CLEANING BRAND*: Trusted by pet owners for superior cleaning performance. *Based on unit sales of pet mess cleaning products ending latest 52 weeks 6/15/24
No. 3
Pet Fresh Carpet Odor Eliminator, 16.3oz, Pack of 1
  • Odor Elimination: Tackles tough pet odors using the power of baking soda and fresh scents, leaving your carpets smelling fresh and clean
  • OxiClean Boost: Infused with OxiClean Dirt Fighters to help loosen and remove 25% more dirt and pet hair than vacuuming alone
  • Long-Lasting Freshness: Leaves behind a long-lasting fresh scent that continues to work even after vacuuming
  • Easy Application: Simply apply to carpet, let it sit, and then vacuum for a quick and effective cleaning process
  • Versatile Use: Suitable for various carpet types and ideal for homes with pets, ensuring a fresh and inviting environment
No. 4
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Strong Odor Eliminator, Enzyme Cleaner, Pet Odor Eliminator for Home - Carpet Stain Remover for Cats & Dog Pee - Urine Destroyer - Carpet Cleaner Spray Clear, 32 Fl Oz
  • Certified Gentle & Safe Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution: Chlorine free, color safe, no hazardous propellants or residue; safe to use around pets and children; certified safe for all carpets with a Seal of Approval by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI)
  • Pet Enzyme Carpet Cleaner for Stains, Odors, Residue: If it's gross, it's gone; the stain and the stink; from stinky yellow pet urine, feces to vomit or other organic spills, Rocco & Roxie professional strength stain & odor eliminator tackles it all
  • Cat & Dog Urine Enzyme Cleaner for Every Surface, Every Time: For use on carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, litter boxes, kennels, carriers, all pet living and sleeping areas—anywhere stains happen enzyme cleaner for dog urine
  • Cat & Dog Urine Enzyme Cleaner for Every Surface, Every Time: For use on carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, litter boxes, kennels, carriers, all pet living and sleeping areas—anywhere stains happen enzyme cleaner for dog urine
  • Buy With Confidence: You want the best for your best friend; we do, too; if you are not satisfied with the performance of this Rocco & Roxie stain & odor eliminator, contact us; we are determined to make it rightx
No. 5
Good Natured Brand | Carpet Deodorizer & Freshener Powder | 31 oz Pet Odor Eliminator for Strong Odor & Pet Urine | Fresh Natural Lemon Scent | Safe for Homes with Pets
  • Powerful Deodorizing & Lasting Freshness - Harness the effective cleaning power of GNB's Carpet Freshener Deodorizer. This superior deodorizer and cleaner eliminates strong odors for long-lasting freshness.
  • Advanced Pet Odor Eliminator - Struggling with persistent pet odors? Our carpet odor eliminator neutralizes strong smells from pet urine, feces, vomit. It restores a pleasant environment with an effective formula, safe for homes with pets and children.
  • Refreshing Natural Lemon Scent - Delight in the refreshing aroma of lemon and eucalyptus with our mom-approved pet friendly carpet refresher. Its long-lasting scent revives your living spaces and transforms your home into a haven.
  • Easy Application, Deep Cleaning - Unleash the power of effortless cleaning with our multi-purpose powder. Simply sprinkle, wait, and vacuum to reach deep into the fibers of your carpets, rugs, upholstery, and even mattresses. Enhance your vacuum's ability to lift dirt and fur for a thorough clean.
  • Eco-friendly - Embrace Flora's commitment to sustainability and GNB's mission of fostering a cleaner and greener future. Our eco-friendly cleaning products made in the USA offer a stronger yet environmentally-friendly alternative to chemically harsh products. Join us in creating a healthier home and a cleaner planet.
No. 6
Resolve Ultra Pet Carpet Cleaner Spray – for Removal of Pet Stains & Odors, 32oz
  • 1. DESTROYS STUBBORN STAINS THE FIRST TIME Penetrates deep to lift and remove tough pet stains like feces, vomit, dirt and their odors
  • 2. HELPS PREVENT REMARKING Discourages pets from returning to make a mess in the same spot
  • 3. OXI+ODOR STOP TECHNOLOGY Removes odors and leaves your home smelling fresh.
  • 4. SAFE FOR ALL SOFT SURFACE AREAS Effective of carpets, upholstery, and area rugs for versatile cleaning.
  • 5. FROM THE #1 PET MESS CLEANING BRAND*: Trusted by pet owners for superior cleaning performance. *Based on unit sales of pet mess cleaning products ending latest 52 weeks 6/15/24
No. 7
Hoover Pet Carpet and Room Refresher, 32 oz, Carpet Powder, Pet Odor Remover, Mountain Breeze Scent, Vacuum Cleaner Safe, For Use on Carpets, Rugs, Couches & More, For Home Use
  • CARPET FRESHENER POWDER: Remove undesirable pet smells with Hoover Pet Carpet and Room Refresher. Simply sprinkle it evenly over the desired surface, wait 5 minutes and vacuum up.
  • VACUUM-SAFE CARPET DEODORIZER: Designed to be gentle on your vacuum, this carpet powder offers a safe and effective solution for refreshing your entire home.
  • VERSATILE USE: Perfect for carpets, area rugs, couches, mattresses, pet beds and more, this scented carpet powder is ideal for everyday use on common surfaces.
  • LONG-LASTING FRESHNESS: The Hoover Pet Carpet and Room Refresher features a specially formulated mountain breeze fragrance that keeps your space smelling fresh for days, making it perfect for home maintenance.
  • NOBODY DOES IT LIKE YOU: For more than 100 years, Hoover has designed powerful, reliable, easy-to-use products that clean your entire home from floor to ceiling. It’s why we’re one of the most trusted brands in America.
No. 8
Bodhi Dog Natural Carpet Deodorizer Powder - Dry Pet Smell Eliminator & Urine Odor Remover - Loosens Fur & Dirt - Plant-Based Room Freshener for Vacuuming Home - Fresh Laundry (Pack of 1)
  • Eliminates Pet Odors Trapped Deep in Carpet Fibers: Effectively deodorize the carpets and rugs in your home and office the fast, easy way, leaving them smelling fresh and clean. Simply sprinkle on and vacuum up! Our powder neutralizes foul odors left by stinky, smelly messes caused by urine, feces, poop, pee, vomit, throw up, puke and accidents. Our formula lifts away lingering and old odors. Its professional strength makes it excellent for homes with multiple pets.
  • Formula Made from Corn Cobs: Our formula is safe to use around your pets and kids. It's ultra gentle on your carpets, keeping them looking better, longer. The mild formula won’t cut carpet fibers causing irreversible damage like the products using baking soda. Our formula is safe, making it better than other chemical based products. It also reduces static electricity buildup and leaves your carpet feeling softer.
  • Outstanding Pet Products: A coveted consumer program recognizing outstanding pet products while enriching the lives of our fur friends. Professional strength that can be used to deodorize smells from urination and messes left by dogs,cats,puppies, kittens,ferrets,guinea pigs, and rabbits. The crisp scent is not overpowering and does not smell like strong chemicals.
  • Helps Vacuum Lift 25% More Fur & Dirt: Loosens up dirt, fur from shedding, pet dander and debris boosting the effectiveness of your vacuum for a better and deeper clean than vacuuming alone. It also quickly neutralizes odors caused by cigarette smoking, cooking, food, sweat, dampness. It can be used all around your home in a living room, bedroom, kids room, den, basement, and on furniture upholstery, drapes and automobile interiors.
  • Our Ethical Family Commitment: Proudly made in the United States of America using socially responsible practices, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. We are a small family owned business of pet lovers committed to making great products that are safe for you and your pets.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: Eliminating Pet Odors from Your Carpet

Pet odors can quickly take over your home, and carpets are often the biggest culprits. Choosing the right odor eliminator is key to a fresh-smelling space. This guide helps you pick the best product for your needs.

1. Key Features to Look For

When shopping, look for specific features that promise powerful and lasting results. These features matter most for deep cleaning carpets.

  • Enzymatic Action: This is the most important feature. Enzymes are tiny helpers that actually eat the odor-causing bacteria. Simple sprays just mask smells; enzymatic cleaners destroy them.
  • Neutralizing vs. Masking: Ensure the product claims to “neutralize” or “eliminate” odors, not just “freshen” or “mask” them with heavy perfumes.
  • Stain Removal: Many good odor eliminators also tackle pet stains (urine, vomit). Check if it’s safe for your carpet type if you plan to use it for both jobs.
  • Fast Drying Time: Nobody likes wet carpets. Look for formulas that dry quickly to minimize disruption.

2. Important Materials and Ingredients

The ingredients determine how safe and effective the cleaner is. You want powerful cleaning without harsh chemicals.

Enzymes: The Power Players

Look for specific enzyme types listed on the bottle, such as protease, amylase, and lipase. These target proteins, starches, and fats found in pet messes. These ingredients break down the source of the smell.

Safety Considerations

Check the label for safety. Products that are:

  • Non-toxic and biodegradable are safer around kids and pets.
  • Free from harsh bleaches or ammonia, as these chemicals can actually attract pets back to the spot.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The quality of the product directly affects how well it works over time.

What Improves Quality?
  • Deep Penetration: High-quality formulas soak deep into the carpet padding where odors hide. If the liquid only cleans the surface fibers, the smell will return.
  • Long Shelf Life for Enzymes: Good brands ensure their enzymes stay active until you use them.
What Reduces Quality?
  • Heavy Fragrances: While a light scent is nice, overly strong perfumes usually mean the product is masking the odor instead of cleaning it. The smell comes back once the perfume fades.
  • Alcohol or Chemical Solvents: These can sometimes damage carpet backing or cause colors to bleed, reducing the product’s overall value.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

How you use the product matters just as much as what you buy. Think about your home environment.

Application Methods

Most products require you to saturate the area thoroughly. Always blot up excess mess first. Then, pour the odor eliminator on, letting it soak. You must let it sit long enough—sometimes hours—for the enzymes to work. Follow the directions carefully.

When to Use It
  • Accident Cleanup: Immediately treat fresh urine spots for the best results.
  • General Refreshing: If your whole room smells a little “doggy,” you can use a carpet cleaner machine filled with an enzymatic solution for a whole-room refresh.
  • Old, Set-In Smells: For older stains, you might need repeated applications. Be patient; these deep smells take time to fully eliminate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pet Odor Eliminators

Q: How long does it take for enzymatic cleaners to work?

A: It varies. For fresh spots, you might see results in a few hours. For old, deep odors absorbed into the padding, it can take several days or even a week of repeated application.

Q: Can I use this on wool or antique rugs?

A: Always test a small, hidden area first! Many enzymatic cleaners are safe, but some natural fibers or dyes react poorly to strong formulas. Check the label for material warnings.

Q: Does this product only work on urine?

A: No. Good enzymatic cleaners break down proteins from all organic messes, including vomit, feces, and general wet dog smells. They target the source of nearly all pet odors.

Q: What is the difference between an odor eliminator and an air freshener?

A: An air freshener covers up smells temporarily with perfume. An odor eliminator uses enzymes to destroy the odor-causing molecules, permanently removing the smell.

Q: Do I need to rinse the product out after use?

A: Usually, no. Most enzymatic cleaners are designed to be left to air dry. The enzymes continue working as the area dries. Rinsing can wash away the active ingredients too soon.

Q: Will this attract my pet back to the spot?

A: If you use a product containing ammonia or strong perfumes, yes, it might. Quality enzymatic cleaners are designed to leave no residual scent detectable by pets once dry.

Q: Can I use this in a steam cleaner or carpet shampooer?

A: Check the manual! High heat from steam cleaners can sometimes kill the active enzymes in the cleaner. Use the product separately, or use only cold water in the machine if the manufacturer approves mixing.

Q: How do I know if the odor is truly gone?

A: If you can no longer smell it after the carpet is completely dry, it is gone. If you still smell it, the product did not reach the source, and you need to reapply and soak the area deeper.

Q: Are these products safe if my pet licks the wet spot?

A: Most reputable brands are non-toxic and safe. However, you should always discourage pets from licking any cleaning product. Keep them away until the carpet is dry.

Q: What should I do if the odor comes back after cleaning?

A: The odor source is likely still present deep in the carpet padding or subfloor. You need to apply more product, ensuring it saturates much deeper this time. Allow a longer drying time.