How Bad Odors Are Controlled

Dealing with an odor problem can be one of the most annoying experiences for a homeowner. Some odors can be neutralized using over-the-counter products available at stores, but others are not that easy to eliminate. Skunk spray, serious pet urine odor, and odors associated with decomposition are some of them most upsetting when they affect your home; controlling those odors poses some difficulties. Here are some tips to help you manage severe odors in your home:

Removing Odors from Skunk Spray or Pet Urine

• If you want to do it yourself, wear gloves and eye protection, as well as clothing that covers your whole body to protect your skin. Since you will be dealing with biological contaminants, consider wearing an N-95 disposable respirator, as well, to prevent inhaling contaminants. 
• Next, remove the source of the odor:
  • On nonporous surfaces, such as metal or plastic, use a mix of warm water and strong detergent to remove pet urine and skunk spray. One thorough wash should be enough, but make sure to rinse the surface with warm water after cleaning.
  • On porous surfaces, like carpet, particle board, upholstery, etc., clean the materials as explained above. These surfaces are more difficult to clean, so if your efforts are not successful, or if the task is too overwhelming, call a professional restoration company. Carpet and pad with excessive pet urine damage should usually be removed and discarded.
  • On semi-porous materials, such as wood, also clean with a solution of water and detergent as explained above. To help neutralize the odor, the detergent should penetrate the material. However, if the wood is heavily damaged by urine or skunk spray, it will most likely need to be disposed of. Seek assistance from a restoration company to improve your chances of restoring damaged semi-porous material.

How to Deal with an Odor Problem from Decomposition

• If the issue involves a deceased person, professional assistance is strongly recommended. After the proper authorities have removed the body, cleaning and decontaminating the fluids come under Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Blood and Other Potentially Infectious Material (BOPIM) regulations. Professional restoration companies follow these regulations to safely decontaminate areas where decomposition took place.
• In case the source of decomposition is a small animal, such as a rodent, the approach is similar to removing pet urine or skunk spray. Wear protective gear first, clean and sanitize non-porous and semi-porous material, and discard damaged absorbent material. If the odor persists, try an air freshener, or call a restoration company that can implement the best course of action.

Check out more tips to get rid of pet odors in your home in this article. Tips to remove smoke odors can be found here and to remove musty odors here. Freshen up your home with the help of these tips. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration services, contact your local PuroClean office.