Help! I just moved into a home and the former owners used their basement to train their three puppies! There are several urine stains on the floor. What can I use to get these out? I am hoping to have this basement finished. Is there anything I can do?

 

Lauren C,

I will mention some options here but you decide which one is best for you. I woUld choose #3.

1. You could use a sponge and white vinegar - straight and let this dry for a couple of hours. Then sprinkle some baking soda over the area, let that set for a day or so and vacuum or sweep that up.

2. There are enzyme products out there like Odor-Ban. This is available at Sam's Club, as one source. It's about $12.00 per gallon. You basically paint it on, usually 2 coats would do the trick. The first coat will absorb into the concrete quite fast. Let the first coat dry very well before applying the second.

3. The most common method is using bleach, letting this dry for a couple of days at least, allowing for good ventilation during this time. Then use Kilz sealer. Runs about $11 per gallon. I recommend the oil base version as it does a very good job of "sealing" any residue of odor should the bleach fail to get it all out. I recommend doing the entire floor as concrete is porous and if there is any places for the odor to leach out, it will. Don't try and use a concrete sealer as this is not the same.

Hope this helps!

 

I have always found that if it's cat urine, then definitely use vinegar.

 

go with option #3. Kilz Oil Base does wonders....but keep the place ventilated...it will give you an unwanted buzz if you don't.