If you share your home with a dog or cat, then you know that accidents happen.

Maybe Fluffy ate something that didn't agree with her or Fido couldn't hold it any longer. Either way, there is a wet spot on your carpet and you need to act fast to stop it from setting in.

Photo: Pixabay

Instead of rushing to the store to buy carpet cleaner or some other fancy product, try one of these simple solutions with items you already have at home.

These natural solutions will eliminate pet stains and remove odor, a win-win!

New Stains

Start by soaking up as much urine or vomit from the carpet while it is still wet.

Remember to blot not rub.

Next, apply pressure by standing on the paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.

Finally, rinse the soiled area with cool water and blot dry.

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Old Stains

While it is best to act immediately before the stain sets, sometimes that isn't possible. A carpet cleaner would work, but so does this simple homemade solution.

If the carpet or rug is a dark color and you are having a hard time figuring out where the stain is, a black light can come in handy.

You will need:
White vinegar
Scrubbing brush
Baking soda
Paper towels
Vacuum

Step 1: Douse the stain with vinegar

Photo: Pixabay

Make a mixture of 50% white vinegar and 50% water and apply to the stain. If the stain is large or old, you can just apply straight vinegar. Be sure to really soak the stained area.

Step 2: Liberally apply baking soda

Photo: Pixabay

Shake, shake, shake. Pour baking soda on the stain and then apply a bit more vinegar for an instant foaming reaction.

Step 3: Scrub

Grab your scrubbing brush and scrub like there's no tomorrow. Make sure the baking soda gets deep down into the carpet fibers, so it can work its magic.

Step 4: Wait

Let's be honest, this is probably the hardest step. Sit back and let the products do the work. Make sure the area is completely dry, which can take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of days.

Step 5: Vacuum

Once the carpet has completely dried, vacuum the area to remove any access baking soda. Then step back and admire your stain-free carpet. Make sure to keep your pets away from the area until it is clean.

Photo: Pixabay

Some cleaning professionals and pet owners claim that cheap vodka can work in place of vinegar in the above solution.

Vodka also helps eliminate odors with a little spritz. "Yes, vodka will remove the dog smells when it evaporates. I do this three times a week," said cleaning expert, Leslie Reichert.

Odor Remover

Baking soda has so many uses from cooking to cleaning to removing odors. The powerful ingredient will not only remove unwanted odors from your fridge, but works on carpet and dog beds. Sprinkle some on the carpet and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then simply vacuum the carpet and just like that, the odor is gone.

Photo: Pixabay

Healthier Home Products suggests adding 15 drops of lavender essential oil to one cup of baking soda to use as a carpet deodorizer. Just use the same way as stated above.

Store-bought natural products work well at removing odors, too. The enzymes in the products eliminate odors without harsh chemicals.

Be sure to share these tips with your family and friends!