
Getting dog urine out of a concrete patio can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Concrete is porous, so urine can seep into it and cause a persistent foul smell. To effectively remove dog urine, it is essential to follow a thorough cleaning process. First, identify the urine spots using a UV lamp or black light. Then, clean the area with a mild detergent or a concrete cleaner and scrub it with a brush or broom. Rinse the surface with clean water to remove any residue. Next, use an enzymatic cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, which can help neutralise the odour. Apply the solution and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing again. Finally, sprinkle baking soda over the area and let it sit for several hours or overnight before scrubbing and rinsing once more. Allow the concrete to air dry completely. For stubborn stains and odours, you may need to repeat the process or use specialised odour-eliminating products.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Porosity of concrete | Concrete is porous like a sponge, so liquid is absorbed if left to sit. |
Uric acid crystals | Uric acid crystals in urine bond tightly to concrete and are insoluble, requiring specific cleaning agents. |
Conventional cleaning agents | Water, soap, vinegar, and baking soda are ineffective at removing uric acid crystals. |
Enzymatic cleaners | Enzymatic cleaners break down uric acid crystals and can be used in conjunction with Trisodium Phosphate (TSP). |
Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) | TSP is a powerful cleaner that can remove bacteria and stains but should be used with protective gear due to skin and eye irritation risks. |
Waterproofing | Waterproofing concrete is a drastic and expensive solution that can facilitate cleaning and give a uniform appearance. |
Sealing concrete | Non-breathable, topical concrete coatings can be used to seal concrete and prevent urine odors from resurfacing. |
What You'll Learn
Identify urine areas with a UV light
If you are struggling to identify the exact spot where your dog urinated, a UV light can help you find it. This is especially useful if you have already cleaned the concrete floor several times and there are no visual signs of urine.
How to Use a UV Light to Find Urine Stains
- Close the doors and turn on the UV light.
- Hold the UV light no more than three feet away from the concrete as you scan the floor in sections.
- Old urine stains will stand out as blue, green, or yellow markings on the concrete.
- Circle the outside area of the stain with arrows pointing towards it. Chalk works well for this, as long as it doesn't get wet.
- Check the first two feet of your walls from the floor up as well, as cats may have sprayed urine on them.
- If the UV light does not reveal any stains, you can also use your sense of smell to locate the urine. Open the doors to air out the immediate smell, then get down on your hands and knees and start sniffing.
Next Steps
Once you have identified the urine stains, it's important to properly clean the area to remove bacteria and other residual urine elements. You can do this by scrubbing the area with a strong solution of Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) and hot water. Keep the area wet for at least 10 minutes to allow the solution to soak into the concrete and follow the same paths as the urine.
After scrubbing and soaking, pour clean hot water over the treated area and then vacuum it up with a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. You will want to do this at least twice, and three times for heavily treated and soiled areas. Finally, allow the concrete to dry completely before applying an enzymatic pet urine cleaner.
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Clean the area with soap and water
To clean the area with soap and water, you'll first want to clear the concrete patio of any dirt or debris. Sweep or use a vacuum to make the surface as smooth as possible. If there is any furniture that could be damaged by cleaning products, be sure to remove it.
Next, mop the floor with mild soap and water. You can also use a solution of 2/3 cup of disinfectant and animal odor neutralizer diluted in 1 gallon (4L) of warm water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly with warm water and allow the concrete to dry completely.
If you are dealing with a particularly stubborn stain or strong smell, you may need to repeat the process.
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Use vinegar and baking soda
Vinegar and baking soda are a great combination to remove dog urine from concrete patios. Here's a detailed guide on how to use them effectively:
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Before applying any cleaning solutions, it's important to prepare the affected area. Start by blotting up any excess liquid with paper towels or rags. This initial step helps dilute the urine and prevents it from setting deeper into the concrete. It's crucial to act quickly, as the longer urine sits, the harder it becomes to remove.
Step 2: Apply Vinegar
Vinegar is an acidic substance known for its ability to neutralize and break down urine enzymes. For this step, you'll need to mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Generously spray the vinegar solution onto the urine-stained area and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. During this time, the vinegar will start to interact with the urine, breaking up the stain. You may even see some bubbling and fizzing as the vinegar works its magic.
Step 3: Sprinkle Baking Soda
While the vinegar solution is still on the concrete, it's time to introduce baking soda into the mix. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stained area. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can absorb and neutralize unpleasant odours. Allow the baking soda to sit on the concrete for several hours or even overnight. This gives it ample time to work on absorbing and eliminating the odour.
Step 4: Scrub and Rinse
Once the baking soda has had sufficient time to work, it's now a good time to grab a stiff bristle brush. Scrub the area vigorously to lift up any remaining urine residue from the pores and textures of the concrete. Be sure to scrub thoroughly, covering all affected areas. After scrubbing, rinse the patio thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue from the vinegar and baking soda.
Step 5: Repeat if Necessary
If there are still lingering odours or visible stains, don't hesitate to repeat the process. The combination of vinegar and baking soda is generally effective, but for more stubborn stains, you may need to give it another go. With patience and persistence, you'll be able to eliminate even the toughest urine stains and odours.
Using vinegar and baking soda is a safe and effective way to remove dog urine from concrete patios. It's important to remember that concrete is porous, so acting quickly and thoroughly is essential to prevent the urine from seeping too deeply into the surface.
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Apply an enzymatic cleaner
Once you have identified the areas of your concrete patio that are affected by dog urine, it is time to apply an enzymatic cleaner. This type of cleaner uses bacteria to digest the waste and stains. The bacteria produce enzymes that break down the molecules of the uric acid crystals into smaller bits, which can then be digested by the bacteria. This process results in the formation of carbon dioxide and water, effectively removing the smell from dog urine.
When choosing an enzymatic cleaner, look for a product that comes in a concentrate or gallon jug, as you will need to use liberal amounts. The Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator is a good option, with excellent reviews and the endorsement of several kennels. You can also try Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray, which is an all-purpose cleaner that can be used on carpets, floors, and furniture.
Before applying the enzymatic cleaner, make sure the concrete is completely dry. Pour the product onto the stained area and scrub it in with a deck brush. Keep the area wet for at least 10 minutes to allow the concrete to absorb as much of the solution as possible. You can also cover the wet area with a cheap painter's tarp to slow evaporation and give the cleaner more time to soak into the concrete.
For particularly bad-smelling areas, you may need to apply the enzymatic cleaner multiple times. Remember that enzymatic cleaners require time to work, so don't rush the process. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few days before rinsing or applying a sealer.
If you are considering sealing your concrete patio after cleaning it, make sure to use a non-breathable, topical concrete coating. Garage floor coatings, such as EpoxyShield by Rust-Oleum, are a good option. These coatings will block odor molecules from transferring through and prevent the smell from returning.
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Seal the concrete
Sealing your concrete patio is a great way to prevent any residual dog urine odours from returning and protect your patio from future stains. Here is a detailed guide on how to seal your concrete effectively:
Prepare the Concrete Surface:
Before applying any sealer, it is crucial to prepare the concrete surface properly. This includes cleaning the patio thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or residue from previous cleaning attempts. Use a mild detergent or concrete cleaner, and scrub the area with a brush or broom. Rinse the surface with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Ensure that the concrete is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
Choose the Right Sealer:
Not all concrete sealers are created equal. When it comes to blocking urine odours, you need to select a non-breathable, topical concrete coating. Epoxy coatings are an excellent choice as they form a film that does not allow odour molecules to pass through. Avoid acrylic sealers and penetrating sealers, as they are breathable and will not effectively block odours. Look for products specifically designed for garage floors, such as EpoxyShield by Rust-Oleum.
Grind or Etch the Concrete:
To enhance the adhesion of the sealer, it is recommended to grind or acid etch the concrete before applying the coating. This process opens up the pores of the concrete, allowing the sealer to penetrate deeper and creating a stronger bond. There are various methods for grinding or etching concrete, including using a diamond grinder or an eco-safe etching solution. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the sealer you choose.
Apply the Sealer:
Once the concrete is properly prepared, you can begin applying the sealer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application. Typically, you will need to use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the sealer evenly across the surface of the concrete patio. Ensure that you wear the appropriate protective gear, including gloves and eye protection, during the application process.
Allow the Sealer to Cure:
After application, give the sealer ample time to cure and harden. Refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for the recommended curing time. Do not rush this process, as it is crucial for the durability and effectiveness of the seal. During the curing period, avoid any activity on the patio that may disturb the sealer.
Perform a Final Inspection:
Once the sealer has cured, inspect the patio for any signs of odour. If the urine odour is still noticeable, you may need to apply additional coats of the sealer or explore alternative solutions. In some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary to completely eliminate deep-seated odours.
Sealing your concrete patio can be a time-consuming and meticulous process, but it is worth the effort to prevent the return of unwanted dog urine odours. Remember to follow safety precautions and always choose products that are safe for both your family and pets.
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Frequently asked questions
First, gather your materials. You will need a wet or dry vacuum cleaner and trisodium phosphate (TSP). If you can't find TSP, a mixture of white vinegar and water or Clorox Urine Remover are good alternatives.
Identify the urine stains. If the urine is still wet, simply wipe it up. If it has dried, you can use a UV lamp to find the exact location of the stains.
Clean the area with mild soap and water, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and let it dry.
Try using vinegar and baking soda. Sprinkle the baking soda on the stain, then pour a little vinegar on top. As it dries, the vinegar will help neutralise the smell.
You may need to use a stronger cleaner, such as an enzymatic cleaner or TSP. These products will break down the uric acid crystals in the urine that have bonded to the concrete.
Yes, you can consider waterproofing your concrete patio. This will facilitate cleaning and give your patio a more uniform appearance. However, this should only be done after you have completely eliminated the urine smell.