Pet Urine Rug Cleaning – Decontamination vs Deodorising

Pet Urine on Your Rug? Deodorising Isn't Enough
Why True Decontamination Matters—from Sydney's IICRC-Certified & Woolsafe-Approved Experts
At Oriental Rug Care, we frequently hear from customers whose rugs still smell despite at-home cleaning. That's because pet urine leaves behind corrosive salts and bacteria deep in the fibres—odours that return unless properly decontaminated.
As Sydney’s only IICRC‑certified rug cleaning technicians and a Woolsafe‑approved cleaning service, we blend scientific precision and hands-on expertise to restore and protect your rugs after pet accidents.
The Risk: Urine Does More Than Stain
Pet urine is a hidden menace:
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Corrosive salts (uric acid crystals) remain trapped in the rug's foundation, reactivating when humidity rises.
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Bacterial growth generates pungent odours over time.
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Fibre and dye damage from alkalinity — leading to discolouration, dye bleed, or even dry rot.
In Sydney's humid climate, these issues intensify—especially in wool and silk rugs, which absorb moisture. At our Inner West facility, we witness firsthand how improper cleaning can exacerbate issues.
Deodorising vs. Decontaminating
Approach |
What It Does |
Why It Fails |
Deodorising |
Masks or neutralises surface odours |
Doesn’t remove urine salts or bacteria |
Decontaminating |
Eliminates urine at its source |
Requires professional tools and expertise |
DIY sprays and home remedies might smell fresh temporarily, but once they fade or the air gets damp, odours return.
Worse still, some chemicals cause permanent staining.
Expert Tip from Our Sydney Rug Technicians
"Pet urine odours often seem to disappear after a quick clean, only to return on humid days.
That's because urine salts re-crystallise deep inside the rug's foundation and reactivate when they absorb moisture.
Never use household carpet cleaners or vinegar on Persian or Oriental rugs; these can cause permanent dye bleed.
Instead, blot up excess liquid immediately and call a professional.
At Oriental Rug Care, our IICRC-trained team in Marrickville uses Woolsafe-approved solutions and a controlled submersion process to neutralise odours and protect delicate fibres."
- Lachlan Bennett, Sydney Rug Cleaning Technician
Our 12-Step Decontamination Process: Why It Works
We've combined our proven 12‑step deep-clean methodology—used for Persian, Oriental, wool, silk, and antique rugs—to include a specific, results-driven pet urine decontamination protocol:
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Thorough Inspection & UV Light Testing
We map out all affected areas—urine often spreads far beyond what's visible—even forming an "iceberg effect” under the surface.
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Heavy-Duty Dust Extraction
By vibrating the rug's backing, we dislodge up to 80% of dry urine crystals before any wet work begins.
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Submersion Bath with Enzymatic Decontaminants
Rug-soaking in our custom wash pit uses Woolsafe-approved and enzyme-based cleaners to break down urine salts and eliminate bacteria—deep into the core.
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Multiple Rinses
Freshwater flushes the rug of contaminants completely.
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Centrifugal Water Extraction
A fast, even drying strategy that protects structural integrity and stops mould or rot.
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Final Grooming & Quality Check
In our humidity-controlled drying room, we hand-groom and thoroughly inspect the rug to confirm full decontamination and restoration.
All performed in a purpose-built rug cleaning facility in Marrickville —never in your home.
Don't Settle for Temporary Fixes—Choose True Restoration
If pet accidents have affected your rug, call 1300 310 410 for a free assessment of our decontamination process.
We offer complimentary pickup and delivery across Sydney, and our work is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Protect your rug's health, colour, and lifespan—with a professional touch.