Cats just might be the best pets ever, but like all pets, they occasionally wreak havoc on our carpets. If you have carpeting or area rugs, it’s a good idea to have a pet odor and stain carpet cleaner handy just in case your kitty has a hairball or an accident.
We looked at dozens of pet carpet cleaners so we could find the best ones for our readers. We considered how well Amazon users said they worked, ease of use, and safety. If you are dealing with carpet messes, we also encourage you to check out The Best Urine Cleaners and Odor Removers as well as The Best Vacuums for Pet Hair.
Our top pick goes to Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator. This is an enzymatic formula that will remove both pet odors and stains. It completely removes cat urine, so if you have an intact male who sprays, this is a product you should consider.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Pet Carpet Cleaners
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pet Carpet Cleaner Overall | Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator | 4.4 |
| Best Dry Pet Carpet Cleaner | Resolve Pet Carpet Cleaner Powder | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Pet Carpet Cleaner | Nature’s Miracle Stain & Odor Remover | 4.5 |
| Best Carpet Cleaner With a Brush | Carbona 2 in 1 Oxy-Powered Pet Stain Remover | 4.8 |
| Best Pet Stain Remover | Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon and might change over time.
Best Pet Carpet Cleaner Overall: Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator
Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator is the best pet carpet cleaner that we found. Thanks to enzymes and other ingredients, it removes not only stains but also odors. The secret is the way the enzymes feed off of the bacteria left behind after you clean the surface of the carpet. The product will continue working until the bacteria (and the smell) is gone.
This product does not contain bleach or any other substances that will be harmful to your cat. You also won’t need to worry about your child sitting or crawling on the carpet once it has dried; the stain and odor eliminator has been certified as safe by the Carpet and Rug Institute. You’re also not limited to using this on carpeting. You can use it on your furniture and even kitty’s bed if you need to.
Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator Key Features:
- 32 ounce bottle
- Enzymes remove odors and stains
- Gentle and safe
- Contains no bleach or harmful propellants
- Can by used on multiple surfaces
- 100% guaranteed
Best Dry Pet Carpet Cleaner: Resolve Pet Carpet Cleaner Powder
Resolve Pet Carpet Cleaner Powder made our top spot among powder carpet cleaners. The way you use it is to sprinkle it liberally on the carpet, use a soft brush to massage it into the fibers, wait 20 minutes, and then vacuum it up. The powder will take with it any smells that are left behind after your kitty makes a mess; it will also remove general pet odor, which is good if you have several pets. It can also loosen pet hair and make it easier to clean up.
The powder’s odor stop technology replaces kitty or doggy smell with a fresh, clean scent. It will absorb dirt, oil, and other dry messes and make them easy to remove with the vacuum cleaner. It is safe for pets and children to walk on after it’s been vacuumed up. You can also use it on upholstery, but you should test a hidden piece of the fabric first to be sure it won’t become discolored or damaged.
Resolve Pet Carpet Cleaner Powder Key Features:
- 18 ounce bottle
- Moist powder
- Massage into carpet, let sit, then vacuum
- Has a fresh, clean scent
- Absorbs dirty and greasy stains
- Safe for pets and children after vacuuming
- Can be used on upholstery
Best Budget Pet Carpet Cleaner: Nature’s Miracle Stain & Odor Remover
Looking for a budget-friendly option? You’ll want to take a look at Nature’s Miracle Stain & Odor Remover, our pick for the best low-cost pet carpet cleaner. This has enzymes that begin to break down and remove pet stains as soon as you apply it. It will continue working until there is no bacteria left for it to remove. It is based on natural ingredients, so it’s safe to use around children and pets.
This product can be used on many different surfaces, including hard floors, area rugs, furniture, and fabric. Do not use on leather, silk, suede, or wool. For best results, you’ll want to apply this full-strength, let it sit for 10 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth. It should be fully dry and the odors should be gone within 24 hours. If the odor was strong, you can also let it sit without blotting up the excess.
Nature’s Miracle Stain & Odor Remover Key Features:
- 32 ounce bottle
- Contains enzymes
- Natural ingredients
- Safe for children and pets after use
- Can be used on various surfaces
- Easy to use
- Removes odors
Best Pet Carpet Cleaner With a Brush: Carbona 2 in 1 Oxy-Powered Pet Stain Remover
Carbona 2 in 1 Oxy-Powered Pet Stain Remover has a brush attached that makes it quick and easy to remove pet stains and odors. The cleaner is a foam and it contains Oxy-Clean, which is great for removing stains. The foam helps to completely remove all traces of odor, which is important if you have a cat (or a dog) who continually soils the same area over and over again. Once they can’t smell where they’ve previously soiled, they should stop having the urge to go there.
You can use the attached brush to scrub the foam into the carpet before blotting or vacuuming. Because it is stuck onto the bottle, you won’t need to worry about losing it; it will be there at your fingertips when you need to use it. Note that this product is a two-pack.
Carbona 2 in 1 Oxy-Powered Pet Stain Remover Key Features:
- 22 ounce bottle two-pack
- Comes with its own brush
- Uses the power of Oxy-Clean
- Neutralizes all traces of odors
- Permanently removes all stains
Best Pet Stain Remover: Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot
Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot is a powerhouse when it comes to banishing tough pet stains. Even if the stain has been there for a while and is set in, it should be no match for this carpet cleaner. In addition to removing pet stains, it can also make light work out of taking care of red wine, coffee, and even oil stains. This is a two-pack; you can purchase a single can as well.
This stain-remover is biodegradable and comes in eco-friendly packaging. It contains no harmful solvents or propellants. Just spray it on the stain, let it sit for several minutes, then blot it up with a clean cloth. You can then go over it with your vacuum to remove any lingering traces once it dries and to fluff the carpet back up.
Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy Carpet Spot Key Features:
- 14 ounces, pack of two cans
- Good for all types of stains
- Biodegradable
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Contains no harmful solvents or propellants
Who Should Buy Pet Carpet Cleaner
Most pets will, at some point, create a mess on the floor. Indoor cats are usually litter box trained, but if a cat is sick, they will sometimes have an accident on the carpet. Some cats are prone to hairballs, which they will sometimes pass on soft flooring or furniture. Anyone who has a pet should have a pet carpet cleaner available should the need arise, even if you don’t have wall-to-wall carpeting, because most types can be used on area rugs, furniture, and other fabrics. You should also be sure to have some type of brush to rub the cleaner into the carpet, a soft cloth for blotting, and a vacuum cleaner for removing traces of the cleaner.
Important Features to Consider
Pet carpet cleaners should all remove pet odors and stains, of course. In addition, here some important features to consider:
- Safety. Of course, you will want to be sure that the pet carpet cleaner you choose is safe for your cat to walk on after it is used. (You should keep your cat out of the area when you are actively using it.)
- Fresh scent. If you are sensitive to chemical odors, look for a pet carpet cleaner with a fresh scent. The goal isn’t to simply mask pet odors, but a fresh scent will help keep your home smelling nice while the enzymes get to work at eliminating the pet odor altogether.
- Type of cleaner. Think about whether you’d prefer a powder that freshens up the carpet or if you need strong stain remover for spot-cleaning. Enzymatic cleaners work well for urine, vomit, and stool stains. You might want to have a bottle of each on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pet carpet cleaner and how does it work?
Pet carpet cleaners use various ingredients to remove stains and odors. One of the most popular types of pet carpet cleaners are enzymatic cleaners. These are usually a spray or a foam that you apply to the carpet, rub in, and then either blot or vacuum (or both). The enzymes will continue working until they break down the bacteria in the carpet that is creating an unpleasant odor. Other cleaners work by physically absorbing stains.
How do I get rid of pet urine smell in the carpet?
A powdered carpet cleaner can help absorb urine odor, particularly if it contains baking soda or a similar ingredient. Enzymatic cleaners work well, too. Follow the directions on the container and be careful not to mix different cleaners.
How do I get pet stains out of carpet?
Using a stain remover spray or foam is usually the best way to remove pet stains from carpets and rugs. Simply spray on, use a brush or a rough cloth to massage it into the carpet fibers, then use a damp or dry cloth to blot it up. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s best to test a small spot in a corner or another area of the carpet that isn’t completely visible to be sure that the product won’t stain or damage the carpet.
Why does my carpet smell worse after cleaning?
If you use a cleaner that pushes the smell down into the padding of the carpet, it can make the odor even worse. Another culprit can be if your carpet is quite wet and the padding begins to mildew before it can dry completely. An enzymatic cleaner can help. Some home remedies can include using baking soda to absorb the smell or putting vinegar in the carpet to try to kill any bacteria or mildew. You might need to contact a professional carpet cleaner if you can’t remove the odor yourself.
Other Pet Carpet Cleaners We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other pet carpet cleaners in addition to the ones that made our top 5 list. These are the best of the rest and great options to consider if you are looking for a product to clean your carpet and keep it free from pet odors and stains.
Pet Carpet Cleaner Sprays and Foams
ANGRY ORANGE Ready-to-Use Citrus Pet Odor Eliminator
This all-natural pet odor eliminator will fill your home with the fragrance of fresh oranges. It’s safe around your pets and children.
Key Features:
- 24-ounce bottle
- Ready to use
- Multipurpose deodorizer
Cost: $21
Carpet Fresh No Vacuum Foam Carpet Refresher
This quick-dry foam is so simple to use: Just spray, let dry, and voila, your carpets are deodorized. No need to vacuum. Don’t use around birds.
Key Features:
- Pack of two 10 ounce cans
- Dry foam
- No vacuuming needed
Cost: $14
Febreze Heavy Traffic Carpet Foam
Spray, scrub, and vacuum with this carpet foam to remove pet odors and to prevent additional odors from sinking in overtime.
Key Features:
- Pack of four 22 ounce cans
- Spray, scrub, and vacuum
- Prevents further stains and odors
Cost: $18
This is a pet odor eliminator that removes smells immediately and also protects your carpet or furniture from future stains.
Key Features:
- 32 ounces
- Can also be used on furniture
- Fragrance and perfume free
Cost: $17
Resolve Ultra Pet Stain & Odor Remover
This carpet spray penetrates deep into the carpet and padding to permanently remove odors and pet stains. It’s also safe for area rugs and upholstery.
Key Features:
- 32-ounce bottle
- Light, clean scent
- Removes various types of stains
Cost: $8
This spray neutralizes urine odors on contact, making it perfect for households with pets or small children. It is safe on carpets, hard floors, and fabrics.
Key Features:
- 32-ounce bottle
- Helps prevent pets from remarking
- Safe for use around pets
Cost: $9
Spot Shot Professional Instant Carpet Stain Remover
This professional carpet stain remover takes care of pet stains before they can set in if used promptly. It will also deodorize.
Key Features:
- 32 ounces
- Professional grade
- No rubbing, scrubbing, or vacuuming
Cost: $9
TriNova Natural Pet Stain and Odor Remover Eliminator
The enzymes in this spray will get to work eliminating the odors in your carpet whether they are from new or old incidents and accidents.
Key Features:
- 32 ounces
- 100 percent natural
- Safe around kids and pets
Cost: $16
This is a true odor neutralizer; it won’t just mask pet odors but will actually cause them to disappear. This is a highly concentrated formula.
Key Features:
- 32-ounce bottle
- Concentrated formula
- Natural and safe
Cost: $40
Woolite Heavy Traffic Carpet Foam
This is a four-pack of cans of foam cleaner that is great for high-traffic areas. It will eliminate pet odors and soften the carpet as it works.
Key Features:
- Four 22 ounce cans
- Fresh, clean scent
- Odor elimination technology
Cost: $15
It takes just 30 seconds to remove pet stains for good with this quick-acting formula, boosted by the power of Oxy Clean.
Key Features:
- Two 22 ounce bottles
- Safe for pets and kids
- Eliminates odors at the source
Pet Carpet Cleaners With Brush
Bissell Pet Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
This spotlifter and odor eliminator comes with a fabric-safe brush to make it easier for you to remove the stains and smells that bother you.
Key Features:
- 12 ounces
- Patented odor eliminator
- Stops remarking
Cost: $5
Bissell Pro Oxy Stain Destroyer
The brush on this bottle of stain destroyer is easy to simply rinse with water. It works well as a pretreatment for pet stains, too.
Key Features:
- 18 ounces
- Removes stains in 30 seconds
- Safe for pets and kids
Cost: $6
BISSELL Woolite InstaClean Pet with Brush Head
Whatever your pets throw at your carpet, this carpet cleaner will be able to handle. In addition, it can take care of blood, red wine, coffee, oil, and more.
Key Features:
- 18 ounces
- Discourages re-soiling
- Uses Oxy stain destroyer
Cost: $4
Capture Carpet Dry Cleaner Powder with Brush
You can remove pet odors from 100 square feet of carpet with this dry cleaner. The powder comes in an easy-store container with a lid.
Key Features:
- 1 lb container
- Safe for all types of carpet
- Includes brush
Cost: $15
Woolite Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner Stain Remover
This stain remover works in four ways: It cleans, removes odors, discourages your pet from marking in the same spot, and refreshes the carpet with a fresh scent.
Key Features:
- Four pack of spray cans
- Includes fabric-safe brushes
- Stainlift technology
Powdered Pet Carpet Cleaners
Arm & Hammer Pet Fresh Formula Dry Carpet Cleaner
Sprinkle this powder on your carpet and vacuum to break down allergens and pet stains. It also neutralizes odors and leaves a fresh scent.
Key Features:
- 18 ounces
- Absorbs allergens
- Safe around kids and pets
Cost: $23
Bodhi Dog Natural Dog Odor Carpet Powder
This is a plant-based pet odor carpet powder that removes pet odors that are trapped deep down in your carpet. It has a fresh laundry scent.
Key Features:
- 14 ounces
- Natural, made from corncobs
- 100 percent biodegradable
Cost: $12
NonScents Carpet Odor Eliminator
This fragrance-free formula gets rid of pet odors without covering them up with any type of perfume or fragrance. The odor protection lasts 30 days.
Key Features:
- 14 ounces
- Keeps vacuum bag smelling fresh
- Made without harmful chemicals
Cost: $12
PL360 Odor Neutralizing Carpet Powder
This is a powder derived from plants that can absorb liquid, oils, and odors from your carpet. It has a long-lasting citrus scent.
Key Features:
- Two 16 ounce containers
- No harmful chemicals
- Prevents re-soiling
Cost: $14
