Best Overall Enzymatic Cleaners
#1 Bissell Professional Stain and Odor Remover
What We Like:
• Reliable performance
• Removes even the toughest stains
• BISSEL runs a pet foundation
What We Don’t Like:
• You may need multiple applications to see the results
Reviews from Buyers:
"With 2 dogs and 2 cats, this has been the only product so far that has actually worked for stain removal. Sometimes too good, as the house I purchased already had poor quality carpets and the spots I’ve used this on show the color they were meant to be! Works well on both new and old stains." — Customer on Amazon.
#2 Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover
• Multisurface application
• Removes stubborn stains with ease
• Strong chemical smell
Reviews from Buyers:
"A necessary purchase if you are a dog owner. Our puppy has peed on our wood floors and many capets and this does wonders. It gets rid of the smell and works very fast. Just buy it!" — Customer on Amazon.
#3 Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator
• Extremely efficient at eliminating foul odors
• Highly versatile
What We Don’t Like:
• Steep price
• Weak nozzle
"I've purchased this twice.... product itself is great. Removes odor, nice citrus smell. Bought because we have a new puppy... great on hard floors and carpet! BUT..... both bottles came with nozzles that didn't work well... one leaked everytime you shake the bottle, the other nozzle wouldn't bounce back after pressing so you had to manually push it back with your finger.... I just emptied the contents into an empty spray bottle I had... 5 star for the liquid formula, 1 star for the cheap nozzle. The orange bottle does look nice though." — Luis G. on Amazon.
Best Enzyme Cleaners for Set-In Stains
If you want to tackle tough cleaning tasks, these professional-grade solutions will leave your living space sparkling clean and smelling fresh.
#4 Eco Strong Outdoor Odor Eliminator
• Easy to use
• Highly effective
• You can choose an option with a sprayer
What We Don’t Like:
• Only suitable for outdoors
Reviews from Buyers:
"We recently did some construction in our yard. We have 2 large dogs and needed to keep them fenced off from the rest of the yard temporarily. After about 6 weeks, the dog urine smell was noticeable! We were really surprised at how well the treatment worked and it’s easy to apply! I bought 2 big bottles thinking it would need more initially, but the first application did the trick. We will buy this again I once we run low!" — Carin Daly on Amazon.
#5 Biokleen Bac-Out Enzyme Stain and Odor Remover
• Biodegradable ingredients
• Fast action
• Made in the US
• May damage some types of fabrics
"Inherited a puppy. This has SAVED my carpet & rugs. I’m on my 2nd bottle, but the first lasted a while, with the puppy peeing and pooping indoors nearly every day. It wipes out the stain & the smell. Smushed in poop disintegrates. I use a scrub brush after a few minutes, then stomp on a towel. Frankly, between THIS product & a dog crate, my life is so much better." — Laura W on Amazon.
Best Scented Enzyme Cleaner
If you are looking for an effective enzyme cleaner with a pleasant aroma, these are the best options, based on our research.
#6 Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain and Odor Eliminator
• Works on all types of surfaces
• Easy to use
• Fast acting
• Money-back guarantee
What We Don’t Like:
• Costly
• Strong smell
Reviews from Buyers:
"I recently got an 8 week old puppy. She had a few accidents before getting the potty training down. I simply blotted the spot to remove most of the liquid. Then I sprayed liberally with the pet spray and let sit for 30 minutes. I then went back to blot up the cleaner up. The puppy did not go back to the original spots as would be normal. This indicates the enzymes worked and removed all urine scent. The scent left behind is a clean, non irritating smell. I did forget to blot the cleaner up once and it left a mark on the carpet. I was able to go back with more cleaner and treat the spot again to remove the second spot. The puppy had diarrhea and it cleared all smell and the strain from that as well. I would recommend this product whole heartedly!" — Customer on Amazon.
#7 Nature’s Miracle Dog Stain And Odor Remover
• Certified safe for carpets
• Money-back guarantee
What We Don’t Like:
• Not suitable for hardwood, leather, suede, silk, porous stone, or ceramic surfaces
Reviews from Buyers:
"Nature's Miracle is really a product one needs when house training . The need to remove any residual scents saves your floors and rugs from repeated " accidents' from your dog. This truly is worth the money." — clem on Amazon.
Best Outdoor Enzyme Cleaner
From patio spills to pet accidents on the lawn, the following cleaner harness the power of enzymes to break down organic matter and eliminate odors, even outdoors.
#8 Bubba’s Super Strength Enzyme Cleaner
• Suitable for all types of carpets
• Can be used on concrete and synthetic grass floors
• Money-back guarantee
What We Don’t Like:
• Costly
Reviews from Buyers:
"We have puppies. And you know what comes with that. We are using this on everything. Yup, going through the entire house. It works well. The scent is strong and it would be nice if were more fragrant but if it comes at the cost of making it less effective it's fine. I'll be ordering it by the truck load."— jls on Amazon.
What is Enzymatic Cleaner?
Enzymatic cleaners are specialized cleaning agents that contain biological molecules called enzymes. These enzymes work by catalyzing chemical reactions that break down and eliminate organic stains and odors. They target the molecules responsible for the stains and odors, such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and oils, and digest them into smaller, water-soluble fragments that are easy to rinse.
Proteases, lipases, and amylases are the most commonly found enzymes in enzymatic cleaners, and they are used to break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, respectively. These cleaners are highly effective in removing tough stains and odors that result from urine, blood, vomit, food spills, or pet accidents, making them a top choice for households with young children or pets.
Enzymatic cleaners are considered safer and more environmentally friendly than traditional chemical cleaners because they rely on natural biological processes instead of harsh chemicals. These cleaners are available in various forms, such as sprays, liquids, powders, and wipes, and they can be safely used on a wide range of surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, fabrics, tiles, and hard surfaces.
Key Things To Keep in Mind When Shopping for Enzyme Cleaners
Let’s cover some essential buying tips to help you make an informed decision.
Ingredients List and Safety
When buying a cleaning product, check the ingredients for enzymes that target specific stains and odors. Choose products with a variety of enzymes for different types of dirt. Avoid aggressive chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and phosphates that can harm pets. Opt for natural, biodegradable, safe ingredients for the environment and your family.
Convenience
Look for enzyme cleaners that are easy to use and offer quick results. Want something for quick cleans and fresh stains? An enzyme spray is the perfect choice! Need something more potent for tough stains? A concentrated product you can dilute as needed will make your life easier.
Purpose
Enzymatic cleaners can clean various surfaces, but choose the right one based on your needs. Test the product on a small piece of carpet to avoid damage. Look for versatile cleaners for effective results in different areas of your home or outdoor space.
Tip: Always read the label and follow the instructions to ensure the best results.
Safety Tips for Using Enzyme Cleaner at Home
You should always take safety measures when applying any chemical product in areas where children and pets may come into contact. These measures include:
- Remove pets and children from the area, even if the product is safe for kids and pets.
- Apply the product to the area and let it sit until it dries completely.
- Avoid scrubbing before applying the product, as some messes can leave difficult stains if not cleaned properly.
- Wear gloves when applying the product.
- Avoid inhaling or aspiration and contact with eyes, skin, and mucous membranes.
- Don’t use the cleaner to disinfect food bowls.
- Store the product in its original packaging and away from light.
- Don’t spray the product on pets.
- Test the product on small areas first.
- Store the product away from animals and children.
FAQ
Is carpet cleaning safe for pets?
Carpet cleaning is safe for pets with pet-safe products and thorough drying.
Do enzyme cleaners work on dog urine?
Enzymatic cleaners effectively eliminate dog urine odor and stains by degrading proteins and bacteria with the help of enzymes.
What type of carpet cleaner is best for pet stains and odors?
Choose enzyme-based cleaners designed for pet urine to clean pet stains and odors from carpets. These cleaners break down urine molecules, removing stains and odors.
Can enzyme cleaners help prevent dogs from re-marking the same spot?
Enzyme cleaners can eliminate urine odor, discouraging dogs from marking the same spot. Cleaning and treating the affected area is crucial to ensure complete odor removal.
Are there any precautions to take when using enzyme cleaners?
Enzyme cleaners are usually safe to use, but avoiding contact with eyes or skin is crucial. Keep them out of the reach of children and pets. Some cleaners might have specific instructions, such as dilution ratios or ventilation requirements, which you should follow.
Can enzyme cleaners be used as a preventative measure for maintaining cleanliness in homes with pets?
Enzyme cleaners can be used regularly to prevent urine stains and odors and keep your home clean and fresh.
Can I make an enzyme cleaner at home?
Enzymes are potent chemical compounds that aren't readily available. Although homemade mixtures can help remove pet messes and urine odors, they are less effective than enzymatic cleaners.
Are pet-safe products more efficient than common products?
There is a common misconception that cleaning products designed for pet environments are more effective than regular products. The fact is they are equally efficient but have a different composition that includes non-toxic ingredients for pets.
What to do in cases of accidental poisoning?
If your pet has ingested something toxic, it is important to stay calm and act quickly. Administering activated charcoal can help absorb the toxins. Immediately rinse your dog’s skin and wash it with a pet-safe shampoo. Do not allow them to lick or chew, and use a buster collar to prevent this if needed. If the skin becomes sore (red, ulcerated, or warm to the touch), contact your vet to discuss what treatment they may need.