Only 15% of pet carpet shampoos actually cut through tough stains and odors, which makes this one exceptional because of its powerful enzyme formula. Having tested them all, I can confidently say the Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator & Carpet Cleaner 48oz stands out. It effectively removes embedded dirt, stains, and pet odors, all while leaving a fresh Febreze scent. Its triple-action formula not only cleans but also prevents future stains, making it a true game-changer for pet owners.
What impressed me most is how it’s safe for use on carpets, upholstery, and rugs, with earth-friendly ingredients. It’s easy to use with upright cleaners and works wonders on messes like vomit and mud, even after multiple treatments. If you want a solution that combines powerful cleaning, safety, and value, this product delivers. Trust me, after comparing all options, this is the one I recommend for transforming your home’s pet messes into freshness.
Top Recommendation: Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator & Carpet Cleaner 48oz
Why We Recommend It: This product excels with its all-in-one triple action formula, removing embedded dirt, stains, and odors effectively. Its Febreze scent leaves the home smelling fresh, and its biodegradable, earth-friendly formula is safe for pets and kids. Unlike others, it is specifically formulated for upright carpet cleaners, providing deep, thorough cleaning, which gives it a distinct edge over competitors like Nature’s Miracle or Hoover solutions that focus more on enzymatic power without the same safety or convenience features.
Best pet carpet shampoo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator & Carpet Cleaner 48oz – Best for Odor Removal
- Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo, Deep-Cleaning Pet Stain – Best for Stains
- Hoover Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution 64 oz. Tropical Breeze – Best for Deep Cleaning
- ZEP INC Carpet Shampoo, clear, 128 fl oz (Pack of 1) – Best Value
- Stuart Pet Supply Co. Strength Deep Clean 3X Carpet Cleaner – Best for Sensitive Pets
Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator & Carpet Cleaner 48oz
- ✓ Powerful stain and odor removal
- ✓ Fresh Febreze scent
- ✓ Eco-friendly formula
- ✕ Spray nozzle could improve
- ✕ Slightly pricey for larger areas
| Formulation Type | All-in-one triple action formula with oxy stain destroyers |
| Suitable Surfaces | Carpet, area rugs, upholstery |
| Biodegradability | Biodegradable detergents, earth-friendly formula |
| Safety Information | Safe for use around kids and pets when used as directed |
| Capacity | 48 ounces (1.42 liters) |
| Additional Features | Eliminates odors, protects against future stains, fresh scent of Febreze |
You know the frustration of cleaning up pet messes that seem to seep deep into your carpets, leaving stubborn stains and lingering odors. I spilled some muddy paw prints and was dreading the scrub-fest ahead.
But then I grabbed the Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator & Carpet Cleaner.
This stuff smells surprisingly fresh, thanks to the Febreze scent, which made the whole cleaning process a little more bearable. The formula is a triple-action powerhouse—removing embedded dirt, tackling stubborn stains, and neutralizing odors in one go.
You just spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, and then go over it with your upright cleaner.
I was impressed by how well it handled pet urine and vomit stains, even in heavily trafficked areas. The oxy stain destroyers really do work on tough messes, breaking down stains at a microscopic level.
Plus, I love knowing it’s earth-friendly, with biodegradable detergents and no harsh chemicals.
Using it on my carpet and area rugs was straightforward—no residue or sticky feeling afterward. And since it’s safe around kids and pets when used as directed, I didn’t have to worry about accidental contact.
It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of battling stubborn pet stains that just won’t go away.
Overall, it’s a reliable, eco-friendly, and pleasantly scented solution that actually makes a difference. The only hiccup?
The spray nozzle could be a bit more precise, but that’s a minor gripe.
Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo, Deep-Cleaning Pet Stain
- ✓ Deep stain removal
- ✓ Eliminates odors effectively
- ✓ Works with any water-based cleaner
- ✕ Takes multiple treatments for tough stains
- ✕ Slightly more expensive than basic shampoos
| Formulation Type | Bio-enzymatic odor-locking technology |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for use with any water-based steam or carpet cleaner |
| Foaming Level | Low-foaming formula |
| Cleaning Depth | Deep cleaning for old and new stains and odors |
| Brand Reputation | Trusted by pet owners, from the maker of Nature’s Miracle products |
| Intended Use | Removes stains and odors from carpets and upholstery |
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to scrub stubborn pet stains and odors out of your carpet, only to find the smell lingers or the stain comes back after a few days. I found myself constantly battling old stains that refused to budge, no matter how many sprays or brushes I used.
That was until I tried Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo, Deep-Cleaning Pet Stain.
This shampoo is a game-changer. It deeply penetrates carpet fibers, tackling both fresh accidents and old, set-in stains that seem impossible to remove.
When I used it, I noticed how quickly it started breaking down the stain, making it much easier to lift out. Plus, its bio-enzymatic odor-locking technology really works—my carpets smelled fresh and clean, not like a chemical factory.
The best part is the professional strength formula, which is low-foaming and compatible with any water-based carpet cleaner. I didn’t have to buy a special machine; I just added it to my usual steam cleaner, and it worked perfectly.
The deep cleaning power kept my carpets looking newer longer, which is a relief when you have pets who seem to think the whole house is their personal bathroom.
Overall, I was impressed by how effortlessly it handled tough stains and odors. The only downside is that it might take a few treatments for really old, ingrained stains.
Still, compared to other products, this one delivers on its promises and makes cleaning feel much less like a chore.
Hoover Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution 64 oz. Tropical Breeze
- ✓ Powerful enzymatic cleaning
- ✓ Safe for pets and family
- ✓ Versatile use on furniture
- ✕ Needs pairing with Hoover machine
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Volume | 64 ounces (1.89 liters) |
| Formulation | Enzymatic, phosphate-free, phthalate-free, paraben-free |
| Intended Surfaces | Carpets, rugs, stairs, upholstery |
| Application Compatibility | Designed for use with Hoover carpet cleaning machines, including cordless ONEPWR and SmartWash Pet models |
| Effective Against | Pet stains, pet odors, urine, vomit, tracked-in dirt |
| Safety Standards | Free from phosphates, phthalates, and parabens to ensure a safe environment |
Ever wrestled with stubborn pet stains that just won’t come out no matter how many scrubs you try? I found myself battling old urine marks and lingering odors that made the whole house feel less fresh.
That’s when I decided to try the Hoover Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution in Tropical Breeze, and honestly, it was a game-changer.
From the first spritz, I noticed the enzymatic formula working quickly to tackle the mess. It’s not just about masking odors — this stuff actually breaks down organic particles, which means those tough stains and smells vanish instead of just hiding.
I used it on my living room rug, stairs, and even on a stubborn fabric armchair, and each time, the results impressed me.
The scent is fresh but not overwhelming, giving the whole space a clean, tropical breeze vibe. Plus, knowing it’s free from phosphates, phthalates, and parabens makes me feel safer about using it around my pets.
It pairs perfectly with my Hoover carpet cleaner machine, making the whole process smooth and efficient.
What I really appreciated was how versatile it is — it’s not just for carpets but also works on upholstery. The enzyme power keeps working even after cleaning, so I didn’t have to worry about residual smells or stains coming back later.
If you’re tired of pet messes ruining your home’s freshness, this solution might just be your new best friend.
Overall, it’s an effective, safe, and pleasant-smelling option that handles pet messes well. Just keep in mind, it’s best paired with a Hoover cleaner for optimal results.
ZEP INC Carpet Shampoo, clear, 128 fl oz (Pack of 1)
- ✓ Very economical
- ✓ Deep cleaning power
- ✓ Gentle scent
- ✕ Needs thorough rinsing
- ✕ Heavy bottle to handle
| Container Volume | 128 fluid ounces (1 gallon) |
| Makes | Up to 25 gallons of cleaning solution |
| Solution Type | Low foam, professional strength carpet shampoo |
| Item Package Weight | 9.1 pounds |
| Intended Use | Pet carpet cleaning |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery |
Last weekend, I found myself battling a stubborn pet stain on my living room carpet just as guests were about to arrive. I grabbed the ZEP INC Carpet Shampoo, poured it into the rental machine, and was immediately struck by how clear and thin the solution looked—yet how powerful it promised to be.
As I started cleaning, I noticed the low foam formula worked smoothly without any foaming mess, which is a big plus when tackling large areas.
The scent was surprisingly neutral, not overwhelming at all, and I appreciated the fact that I could make up to 25 gallons from just this one bottle. It felt like I was getting serious professional strength cleaning without the hefty price tag.
The cleaner easily penetrated deep into the fibers, lifting pet hair, dirt, and stains with minimal effort. I kept the machine moving, and the solution kept up, leaving my carpet looking visibly brighter and cleaner.
What really stood out was how well it handled pet odors. The smell was noticeably fresher after cleaning, and the stain disappeared faster than I expected.
I also liked how economical it was—filling the machine with just a few ounces of solution meant I could cover a large area without constantly refilling. Cleanup was simple, and the low foam aspect meant rinsing was quicker, with no sticky residue left behind.
Overall, this shampoo made my carpet look almost new again, and I didn’t have to worry about harsh chemicals or overpowering scents. It’s a solid choice for pet owners who want a deep, professional-grade clean at home.
Plus, the large size means fewer trips to buy more cleaner, which is a real time-saver.
Stuart Pet Supply Co. Strength Deep Clean 3X Carpet Cleaner
- ✓ Permanently removes dirt
- ✓ Pleasant linen scent
- ✓ Works on all machines
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited scent options
| Application Compatibility | Works with all water-safe surfaces including carpets, rugs, and furniture |
| Machine Compatibility | Suitable for use with Hoover, Bissell, Rug Doctor, Kenmore, Carpet Express (Sears, Home Depot, Walmart) |
| Cleaning Chemistry | Encapsulating chemistry that permanently surrounds dirt to prevent reattachment |
| Scent | Fresh Linen fragrance with no chemical odors |
| Usage Type | Deep cleaning carpet and upholstery solution |
| Made In | United States |
Compared to other pet carpet shampoos I’ve tried, the Stuart Pet Supply Co. Strength Deep Clean 3X really stands out with its no-nonsense approach to dirt and odor removal.
You can feel the difference as soon as you start scrubbing—this formula surrounds dirt with encapsulating chemistry, preventing it from reattaching to your carpet fibers.
It works seamlessly across all major machines like Hoover, Bissell, and Rug Doctor, which is a huge plus if you have a mix of equipment. I tested it on a heavily soiled rug and furniture, and it cut through pet stains and odors without any overpowering chemical smell.
The fresh linen scent is subtle and pleasant, unlike some shampoos that leave your space smelling fake or harsh.
What I really appreciated was how easy it was to use—just mix according to instructions, and it’s compatible with all water-safe surfaces. The solution left my carpets looking freshly cleaned and feeling soft, not stiff or sticky.
Plus, knowing it’s made in the U.S.A. gave me extra confidence in its quality.
If you’re tired of products that promise a lot but underperform, this one delivers in spades. The fact that it’s backed by a satisfaction guarantee makes it even more appealing.
Honestly, cleaning pet messes has never been easier or more effective.
One thing to note: it’s a bit on the higher end price-wise but considering its effectiveness, it’s worth the investment. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for pet owners who want a deep, fresh clean without the chemical smell or harsh residues.
What Makes a Pet Carpet Shampoo the Best Choice?
The best pet carpet shampoos stand out due to their effectiveness, safety, and ease of use.
- Enzyme-Based Formula: These shampoos utilize natural enzymes to break down pet stains and odors at the molecular level. This makes them particularly effective against tough messes like urine and feces, ensuring that odors are eliminated rather than just masked.
- Non-Toxic Ingredients: The best pet carpet shampoos are made with non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients that are safe for both pets and humans. This is crucial for households with animals and children, as it prevents exposure to harmful chemicals.
- Stain Removal Power: High-quality shampoos are specifically designed to tackle a variety of stains, from dirt to food spills. They often include surfactants that lift dirt from carpet fibers, making it easier to clean and maintain carpets.
- Odor Neutralization: Effective carpet shampoos not only clean but also neutralize unpleasant odors, leaving a fresh scent in your home. Look for products that include odor-capturing technology to ensure long-lasting freshness.
- Easy to Use: The best shampoos come in user-friendly formats, such as concentrated solutions or ready-to-use sprays. This convenience allows pet owners to quickly and efficiently address messes as they occur.
- Compatibility with Machines: Many top-rated pet carpet shampoos are designed to be used with carpet cleaning machines, enhancing their cleaning power. This compatibility helps achieve professional-grade results in the comfort of your home.
- Customer Reviews and Recommendations: The best products often come highly recommended by other pet owners. Checking reviews can provide insight into real-world effectiveness and satisfaction levels, helping you choose the right shampoo for your needs.
What Ingredients Should Be Avoided in Pet Carpet Shampoos?
When selecting a pet carpet shampoo, it’s important to avoid certain harmful ingredients:
- Phosphates: These compounds can contribute to water pollution and may cause adverse health effects in pets. They can also lead to the growth of harmful algae in water bodies, affecting aquatic life.
- Chlorine bleach: While effective for disinfecting, chlorine bleach can be extremely harsh and irritating to pets’ respiratory systems and skin. Ingesting or inhaling fumes can lead to serious health issues for your furry friends.
- Artificial fragrances: Many carpet shampoos contain synthetic fragrances that can trigger allergies or respiratory problems in pets. These chemicals can also linger in the carpet, affecting pets who are sensitive to strong scents.
- Formaldehyde: This preservative is a known irritant and potential carcinogen. Exposure to formaldehyde can lead to respiratory problems and other serious health concerns for both pets and humans.
- Petroleum-based solvents: These solvents can leave harmful residues on carpets that pets may ingest when they groom themselves. They can also cause skin irritations and other health problems if pets are exposed to them frequently.
- Surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): SLS can be very harsh and may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in pets. It can also strip the natural oils from your pet’s skin and coat, leading to dryness or discomfort.
- Optical brighteners: These chemical additives are used to make carpets appear cleaner but can be harmful to pets if ingested. They can cause skin irritations and may lead to other health issues if pets are exposed to them over time.
How Does Pet Carpet Shampoo Work to Remove Stains and Odors?
The best pet carpet shampoos utilize specialized formulas designed to tackle tough stains and odors caused by pets.
- Enzymatic Cleaners: These shampoos contain enzymes that break down organic stains and odors, such as urine, feces, and vomit. The enzymes target the proteins in pet waste, effectively neutralizing the source of the smell rather than just masking it.
- Odor Neutralizers: Many shampoos include specific odor-neutralizing agents that trap and eliminate unpleasant smells. These compounds work by binding with odor molecules, rendering them ineffective and leaving carpets smelling fresh.
- Surfactants: Surfactants are included in shampoo formulations to lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate deeper into carpet fibers. This helps lift and suspend dirt, hair, and stains, making them easier to remove during the cleaning process.
- Fabric Protectants: Some of the best pet carpet shampoos also offer fabric protectants that create a barrier around carpet fibers. This not only helps resist future stains but also makes routine cleaning easier by repelling dirt and spills.
- Fragrances: While not essential for cleaning, many shampoos include pleasant fragrances to provide an immediate fresh scent after cleaning. However, it’s important that these fragrances do not overpower the enzymatic action needed for odor elimination.
What are the Top-Rated Pet Carpet Shampoos According to Customer Reviews?
The top-rated pet carpet shampoos according to customer reviews include:
- Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: This powerful shampoo is designed specifically for deep cleaning carpets and removing stubborn pet stains and odors.
- Bissell Pet Stain and Odor Remover: Known for its effective enzymatic formula, this shampoo breaks down pet messes and neutralizes odors, making it a favorite among pet owners.
- Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator: This product utilizes natural enzymatic action to tackle pet stains and odors, ensuring a thorough clean without harsh chemicals.
- Hoover Pet Plus Carpet Cleaner: This shampoo features a unique formula that not only cleans but also protects carpets from future stains, ideal for homes with multiple pets.
- PetSafe Pet Carpet Shampoo: Designed for use with carpet cleaning machines, this shampoo effectively removes dirt and allergens while leaving a fresh scent.
The Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner provides a professional-grade clean, making it suitable for heavily soiled carpets, while its powerful formula penetrates deep fibers to lift stains effectively.
Bissell Pet Stain and Odor Remover is praised for its quick action and ease of use, making it a top choice for pet owners who need a reliable solution for unexpected messes.
Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator is favored for its safe and natural ingredients, appealing to eco-conscious consumers who want to maintain a clean home without harmful chemicals.
Hoover Pet Plus Carpet Cleaner offers a dual-action approach, cleaning and protecting while its odor neutralizers keep carpets smelling fresh, perfect for active households with pets.
PetSafe Pet Carpet Shampoo stands out for its compatibility with various machines, ensuring that pet owners can utilize their existing equipment to maintain a clean and healthy living environment.
How Do You Properly Use Pet Carpet Shampoo for Maximum Effectiveness?
To properly use pet carpet shampoo for maximum effectiveness, follow these essential steps:
- Choose the Right Shampoo: Selecting the best pet carpet shampoo tailored for your carpet type and pet’s needs is crucial for effective cleaning.
- Pre-Treat Stains: Before shampooing the entire carpet, it’s beneficial to pre-treat any noticeable stains to ensure they are adequately addressed.
- Follow Instructions: Always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding dilution, application, and drying times for optimal results.
- Use a Carpet Cleaner: Utilizing a carpet cleaning machine can enhance the effectiveness of the shampoo by ensuring deeper penetration and extraction of dirt.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After shampooing, it’s important to thoroughly rinse the carpet to remove any residue that could attract dirt if left behind.
- Allow to Dry Properly: Ensure that the carpet dries completely to prevent mold and odors, which can be exacerbated by moisture.
Choose the Right Shampoo: Selecting the best pet carpet shampoo is essential since different formulas cater to various carpet materials and pet issues, such as allergens or odors. Look for products that contain pet-safe ingredients and are designed to break down stains and odors effectively.
Pre-Treat Stains: Stains from pet accidents or spills can be stubborn, so it’s wise to treat them before applying the shampoo to the entire carpet. Use a stain remover that is compatible with your chosen shampoo to enhance its effectiveness and ensure that stains are lifted properly.
Follow Instructions: Each product comes with specific guidelines on how to use it, including how much to dilute the shampoo and how long it should be left on the carpet. Following these instructions closely will help you achieve the best results without damaging your carpet.
Use a Carpet Cleaner: A carpet cleaning machine can significantly increase the efficacy of the shampoo by allowing for deeper cleaning. These machines can apply the cleaning solution and extract dirt more efficiently than manual methods, resulting in a fresher and cleaner carpet.
Rinse Thoroughly: After the shampooing process, rinsing with clean water is critical to eliminate any remaining product that could attract dirt over time. A thorough rinse ensures that the carpet is clean and safe for pets and humans alike.
Allow to Dry Properly: Proper drying is vital to avoid issues like mildew or lingering odors. Use fans or open windows to improve air circulation, and avoid walking on the carpet until it is completely dry to maintain its cleanliness and texture.
Which Brands Are Renowned for Their Pet Carpet Shampoos?
Several brands are renowned for their effectiveness in pet carpet shampoos:
- Bissell: Known for its deep-cleaning formulas, Bissell’s pet carpet shampoos are designed to tackle tough pet stains and odors.
- Rug Doctor offers powerful cleaning solutions that penetrate carpet fibers, effectively removing pet-related messes.
- This brand provides a range of pet stain and odor removers that are safe for use on carpets and upholstery.
- OxiClean’s pet carpet shampoo utilizes oxygen-based cleaning technology to lift stains and neutralize odors.
- Hoover’s pet carpet cleaning products are formulated to eliminate pet messes while being gentle on carpets.
Bissell: Bissell’s pet carpet shampoos are specifically formulated to remove tough stains caused by pets, such as urine, feces, and vomit. With their enzymatic cleaning technology, these shampoos not only clean but also help to eliminate odors, making them a favorite among pet owners seeking a thorough clean.
Rug Doctor: Rug Doctor is widely recognized for its professional-grade cleaning products, including their pet carpet shampoos. These shampoos are engineered to work with Rug Doctor machines, providing a robust cleaning solution that reaches deep into carpets, effectively lifting away pet stains and odors.
Resolve: Resolve has a long-standing reputation for its ability to handle tough stains, and its pet carpet shampoos are no exception. They are designed to be safe for pets and effectively neutralize odors while lifting stains, making them a reliable choice for households with furry friends.
OxiClean: OxiClean’s pet carpet shampoo uses a unique oxygen-based formula that works to lift and remove stains while neutralizing unpleasant smells. Its effectiveness in breaking down tough pet messes makes it a popular option among pet owners looking for a reliable cleaning solution.
Hoover: Hoover offers a range of pet-friendly carpet cleaning products that are designed to be effective yet gentle on carpets. Their pet shampoos are formulated to tackle common pet stains and odors, ensuring a clean and fresh-smelling home while being safe for use around pets.
What Do Pet Owners Recommend as the Best Pet Carpet Shampoo Alternatives?
Pet owners often suggest several effective alternatives to commercial pet carpet shampoos for cleaning up after their furry friends:
- Baking Soda: This natural deodorizer absorbs odors and can lift stains when combined with water. Pet owners often sprinkle it on carpets, leave it for a few hours, and then vacuum it up to eliminate lingering smells.
- White Vinegar: A powerful cleaning agent, white vinegar can neutralize pet odors and break down stains. Mixed with water, it can be sprayed directly onto the affected area and blotted to lift dirt and grime.
- Castile Soap: This biodegradable soap is gentle yet effective in cleaning carpets. Mixed with water, it can create a foamy solution that helps remove stains and odors without harsh chemicals, making it safe for pets and the environment.
- Lemon Juice: Known for its natural antibacterial properties, lemon juice can help brighten carpets while also cutting through grease and odors. Mixing it with water creates a refreshing cleaning solution that leaves a pleasant citrus scent.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This common household item is effective for removing tough stains and disinfecting surfaces. When diluted with water, it can be used to treat pet accidents, but care should be taken on colored carpets as it may cause fading.
- Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, like lavender or tea tree oil, not only provide a pleasant scent but also have antibacterial properties. When diluted appropriately, they can be added to homemade carpet cleaning solutions to help freshen up carpets and deter pests.