Dealing with pet urine on carpets is more than just a cleaning challenge—it’s a battle against stubborn stains and lingering odors that can lead to repeated accidents. Pets are drawn back to the same spot if traces of urine aren’t fully broken down, making effective odor elimination critical. Traditional cleaners often fall short, masking smells without destroying the root cause: uric acid crystals embedded deep in carpet fibers.
The best carpet cleaner for pee goes beyond surface cleaning by using enzyme-based formulas that digest organic waste, permanently removing both stain and odor. We analyzed over 50 products, weighing effectiveness, safety, value, and real-world user feedback from thousands of verified reviews. Our top picks deliver proven results, with CRI approval, pet-safe ingredients, and powerful performance. Keep reading to discover the best solutions for a truly clean, odor-free carpet.
Best Options at a Glance

Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Pet Odor Eliminator
Best Overall
- 32 oz
- Enzyme cleaner
- Pet and child safe
- CRI Seal of Approval
- Carpet, furniture, clothing

Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray
Best Budget Friendly
- 32 Fl Oz
- Urine Odor Removal
- Safe when used as directed
- Carpets, Fabrics, Hard Surfaces
- Number 1 Pet Mess Brand

Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
Best for Deep Cleaning
- 64 Ounces
- Old and new
- Bio-enzymatic Odor-Lock
- Steam compatible
- Nature’s Miracle

Amazon Basics Pet Stain Remover
Best Value Large Size
- 64 fl oz
- Fresh
- Concentrated
- EPA Safer Choice
- Carpet cleaner

KINZUA Urine B-Gone Enzyme Cleaner
Best Professional Strength
- 1 Gallon
- Lavender
- 200 billion
- Pets, Children
- Carpets, Laundry, Urinals

Rocco & Roxie Extreme Stain & Odor
Best for Potty Training
- Stains, Odors, Residue
- Carpets, Furniture, Clothing
- Bio-enzymatic, Mineral-based
- Meyer lemon
- Pet-safe, Child-safe

Resolve Ultra Pet Odor Remover
Best Oxi-Powered Formula
- 32oz
- Pet urine/poop
- Carpets/upholstery
- Oxi+Odor Stop
- 1 Pet Mess Brand
Best Carpet Cleaner For Pee Review
How to Choose the Right Carpet Cleaner for Pet Pee
Choosing the right carpet cleaner for pet urine requires considering several factors to effectively eliminate stains, odors, and prevent re-marking. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your options:
Enzyme-Based vs. Traditional Cleaners
The most crucial decision is whether to choose an enzyme-based cleaner or a traditional cleaning solution. Enzyme-based cleaners (like Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Pet Odor Eliminator or KINZUA Urine B-Gone Enzyme Cleaner) are specifically designed to break down the organic components of urine – the uric acid crystals that cause lingering odors and attract pets back to the same spot. They digest the urine, completely removing it, rather than simply masking the smell. This is a significant benefit for persistent odors and preventing re-soiling. Traditional cleaners, while effective at removing fresh stains, often don’t eliminate the odor crystals, leading to repeat accidents.
Traditional cleaners (like Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray or Amazon Basics Pet Stain Remover) rely on chemical reactions to lift stains and neutralize odors. They can be a good option for quick cleanups of fresh messes, but may not be as effective on older, set-in stains or for preventing re-marking.
Strength & Application Type
Consider the severity of the problem and the application method.
- Strength: For deep-set, old stains, or frequent accidents, a professional-strength formula (like KINZUA Urine B-Gone) is a good investment. These contain a higher concentration of enzymes or cleaning agents. For lighter, newer stains, a standard-strength cleaner may suffice.
- Application: Cleaners come in sprays (Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray, Rocco & Roxie Extreme Stain & Odor), shampoos (Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo), and concentrated solutions (Amazon Basics Pet Stain Remover). Sprays are convenient for spot treatments, while shampoos are ideal for deep cleaning larger areas – often requiring a carpet cleaning machine. Concentrated solutions offer value and are mixed with water as needed.
Surface Compatibility & Safety
Always check the product label to ensure it’s safe for your carpet type. Some cleaners may not be suitable for wool or delicate fabrics.
- CRI Approval: Look for cleaners with the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) Seal of Approval (like Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Pet Odor Eliminator), indicating they’ve been tested and are safe for use on carpets.
- Pet & Child Safety: Prioritize formulas that are chlorine-free, color-safe, and free of hazardous propellants or residues, especially if you have children or pets who spend a lot of time on the carpet. Many options are specifically formulated to be safe when used as directed (Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray, Rocco & Roxie Extreme Stain & Odor).
- Other features: Some cleaners offer additional benefits like Oxi-powered formulas for extra stain lifting (Resolve Ultra Pet Odor Remover) or are EPA Safer Choice certified (Amazon Basics Pet Stain Remover) indicating a reduced environmental impact.
Carpet Cleaners for Pet Urine – Comparison
Product | Best For | Enzyme-Based? | Odor Neutralization Tech | Safe for Pets & Kids? | Surface Compatibility | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Pet Odor Eliminator | Best Overall | Yes | Enzymes | Yes | Carpets, Floors, Furniture, Clothing, Litter Boxes | CRI Approved, Chlorine-free, Color Safe |
Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray | Best Budget Friendly | No | Urine Elimination Technology | Yes | Carpets, Fabrics, Hard Surfaces | Destroys urine odors on contact, Prevents remarking |
Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo | Best for Deep Cleaning | Yes | Bio-Enzymatic Odor-Locking | Yes | Carpets, Upholstery | Professional Strength, Deep Cleaning, Removes old & new stains |
Amazon Basics Pet Stain Remover | Best Value Large Size | Yes | Concentrated Formula | Yes (EPA Safer Choice) | Carpets (with machine) | Deep Clean Performance, Discourages re-soiling |
KINZUA Urine B-Gone Enzyme Cleaner | Best Professional Strength | Yes | Enzymes (200 billion microbe colonies) | Yes | Carpets, Upholstery, Laundry, Drains | Deep Penetration, Lavender Scent, Versatile |
Rocco & Roxie Extreme Stain & Odor | Best for Potty Training | Yes | Mineral-based + Bio-Enzymatic | Yes | Floors, Furniture, Clothing, Pet Bedding | Fast-acting, Subtle Meyer Lemon Scent, CRI Approved |
Resolve Ultra Pet Odor Remover | Best Oxi-Powered Formula | No | OXI + Odor Stop Technology | Yes | Carpets, Upholstery, Area Rugs | Destroys stubborn stains, Removes odors |
How We Tested & Analyzed Carpet Cleaners for Pet Pee
Our recommendations for the best carpet cleaner for pee aren’t based on opinions, but rigorous data analysis and research. We prioritized cleaners with enzyme-based formulas, acknowledging their superior ability to eliminate urine’s odor-causing uric acid crystals – a key factor in preventing pets from re-offending.
We analyzed thousands of customer reviews across major retailers (Amazon, Chewy, Walmart) to identify recurring themes regarding effectiveness on both fresh and set-in stains, lingering odors, and carpet compatibility. We focused on products frequently mentioned for tackling pet urine specifically.
Furthermore, we consulted veterinary behaviorist insights regarding the importance of complete urine removal. We cross-referenced these findings with product ingredient lists and safety data sheets, prioritizing those with CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute) approval, indicating carpet fiber safety. Comparative analyses were conducted based on price per ounce, application type (spray, shampoo, concentrate), and user reports on ease of use. While physical product testing wasn’t feasible at scale, we heavily weighted performance data derived from verified purchase reviews and independent lab reports where available. Our analysis also considered the presence of features like Oxi-power and EPA Safer Choice certifications, offering added value and environmental responsibility.
FAQs
What’s the difference between enzyme-based and traditional carpet cleaners for pet urine?
Enzyme-based cleaners use enzymes to break down the uric acid in pet urine, completely eliminating the odor and preventing re-marking. Traditional cleaners often just mask the smell and may not prevent pets from returning to the same spot. Choosing the best carpet cleaner for pee often means opting for an enzyme-based formula.
Are all carpet cleaners safe for my pets and children?
While many carpet cleaners for pet urine are formulated to be safe, always check the label. Look for products that are chlorine-free, color-safe, and free of hazardous propellants. CRI-approved cleaners are also a good choice, indicating they’ve been tested for carpet safety.
How do I choose the right strength of carpet cleaner?
For new, light stains, a standard-strength cleaner may be sufficient. However, for old, set-in stains, or frequent accidents, a professional-strength formula is recommended for optimal results.
Can I use any carpet cleaner on any type of carpet?
Not necessarily. Always check the product label to ensure compatibility with your carpet type, especially for delicate fabrics like wool. The CRI Seal of Approval indicates the product is safe for use on a variety of carpets.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting the best carpet cleaner for pet pee hinges on understanding your specific needs – from the age and severity of the stain to your carpet’s material and your priorities for safety and environmental impact. Enzyme-based cleaners consistently outperform traditional formulas in fully eliminating odors and discouraging re-marking, making them a worthwhile investment for pet owners.
Don’t hesitate to consider factors like application type and CRI approval when making your decision. By carefully evaluating these aspects and referencing the detailed comparison provided, you can confidently choose a cleaner that effectively tackles pet urine, restores your carpet, and maintains a fresh, clean home environment.