How to get pet urine out of a viscose or wool and viscose rug
Act fast, blot rather than rub, and use as little liquid as possible. Below is a step-by-step method for removing pet urine from a viscose or wool and viscose rug, with the precautions that matter for viscose and wool-viscose fibres.
Before you start
Check the care label on your rug or its product page first; it overrides general advice. Test any cleaning solution on a hidden corner and wait for it to dry before treating the stain. Use white cloths or kitchen roll so no dye transfers to the rug.
Step by step: pet urine on a viscose or wool and viscose rug
- Blot up as much urine as you can with kitchen roll, pressing firmly.
- Dab the area with cold water and blot again to dilute what remains.
- Apply an enzyme-based pet stain cleaner suitable for your rug fibre, following its instructions, to break down the odour-causing compounds.
- Blot dry and let the area air-dry fully, ideally with good ventilation.
Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, which smell similar to urine and can encourage a pet to return to the same spot.
Why viscose and wool-viscose needs care
Viscose loses strength when wet and can mark, yellow or lose its sheen, so treat stains with as little water as possible and never rub. Blot immediately with a dry cloth. For anything beyond a fresh, small spill, a professional rug cleaner experienced with viscose is strongly recommended.
When to call a professional
Call a professional rug cleaner if the stain is large, has dried in, keeps reappearing as the rug dries (wicking), or if the rug is valuable, handmade or made of a delicate fibre. Tell them what the stain is and what you have already tried, as some home treatments make professional cleaning harder.
Viscose and wool-viscose rugs in our range
We currently list 18 viscose and wool-viscose rugs. Each product page gives the maker's own care instructions.
Matrix Infinity Wool & Viscose Rug in SageWool & viscose · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 300 cm
Matrix Infinity Wool & Viscose Rug in CharcoalWool & viscose · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm
Matrix Infinity Wool & Viscose Rug in SandWool & viscose · 120 x 170 cm, 200 x 300 cm
Matrix Infinity Wool & Viscose Rug in CopperWool & viscose · 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 300 cm
Halo Wool & Viscose Rug in ClayWool & viscose · 200 x 290 cm
Blade Border Rug in Putty & CharcoalViscose · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Blade Border Rug in Putty & SilverViscose · 120 x 170 cm, 160 x 230 cm, 200 x 290 cm
Enigma Wool & Viscose Rug in Blue MultiWool & viscose · 200 x 290 cm
Frequently asked questions
Can you get pet urine out of a viscose or wool and viscose rug?
Often, yes, if you act quickly. Blot, dilute and treat gently following the steps above. Old or set-in stains may need a professional rug cleaner.
What should I avoid when cleaning pet urine from a viscose or wool and viscose rug?
Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, which smell similar to urine and can encourage a pet to return to the same spot. Viscose loses strength when wet and can mark, yellow or lose its sheen, so treat stains with as little water as possible and never rub.
Should I rub a stain on a rug?
No. Rubbing spreads the stain and can fray or felt the fibres. Blot from the outside of the stain towards the centre.
How do I dry a viscose or wool and viscose rug after spot cleaning?
Blot with a dry towel, pressing firmly, then let it air dry with good ventilation. Avoid direct high heat. Prop up the area so air reaches the back if the rug was wetted through.
Related pages
- Wool & viscose rugs
- How to remove stains from a rug
- Rug care finder
- Rug care
- Pet urine on a wool rug
- Pet urine on a polypropylene or polyester rug
- Pet urine on a jute rug
Prices, stock and exact specifications change, so always check the product page before you order: every product page lists the maker's size, material, construction and care details. Delivery is free and tracked to England, Wales and mainland Scotland, and you have 14 days to change your mind. See delivery and returns.