7 Best Enzyme Cleaners to Lift Dog and Cat Urine From Carpets
Set-in stains and odors don't stand a chance.
Expert consulted: Carolyn FortéHome Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director
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If you share your home with a furry friend, you’ve likely faced your fair share of pet messes — snout smudges on windows, muddy paw prints across the rug and even urine, poop and vomit on your favorite carpet. And these messes aren’t just unpleasant — they’re notoriously hard to clean, especially when they seep deep into carpet fibers and leave behind stubborn odors that tend to linger.
That’s where enzyme cleaners come in. Unlike traditional cleaners that simply mask smells, enzyme cleaners use natural enzymes to break down the proteins in organic stains like pet messes, making them easier to lift out and eliminate for good. At the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, we’ve tested dozens of stain-removing sprays and carpet cleaners specifically designed for pet households, so whether you're dealing with a recent mess or a lingering smell from an old one, we know these enzyme cleaners actually work.
Pros
- Works on carpets, upholstery and mattresses
- Removes food stains well too
Cons
- Odor removal can take up to 72 hours
Type: Spray | Size: 22 oz. | Scent: Unscented
One of the biggest problems with pet stains, including dog and cat urine, is that the stain doesn't just look unsightly — it leaves a lingering smell.
The odor, if left untreated, can draw your four-legged friend back to the same spot again and again. This Bissell formula is, hands-down, our Lab pros' favorite for preventing this problem. Simply use it to erase the stain, then place a moist cloth over the area and let it sit for anywhere from 12 to 72 hours. The enzymes will keep working to eliminate the scent.
In tests, our Lab pros were impressed by the versatility of this formula. In addition to pet messes, Bissell did a great job removing food stains. It works on other fabrics like upholstery and mattresses, as well as any surface that can safely be cleaned with water (limited exceptions include things like silk upholstery and non-washable wall coverings). In fact, our experts recommend it for use wherever pet stains happen. It does need time to work its magic, but the payoff is worth it.
Biokleen Bac-Out Enzyme Stain & Odor Remover
Pros
- Biodegradable formula
- Pleasing scent
Cons
- Large jug of liquid is not as convenient as a spray
Type: Liquid | Size: 128 ounces | Scent: Lime essence
It's hard to go wrong with Biokleen's liquid carpet stain and odor remover. If you have the storage space and don't mind the hassle of lugging out a big jug, the 128-ounce product offers unbeatable value. For convenience, you may want to invest in a spray bottle for easier application.
We like that Biokleen is fully biodegradable and made right here in the U.S. from plant-based ingredients. Per the brand, it doesn't contain any artificial fragrances, dyes, phosphates, chlorine, ammonia or brighteners. Still, the live enzyme cultures work on a wide range of messes, including pet accidents, wine spills, urine-soaked cloth diapers, heavily soiled laundry and even garbage cans and drain disposals.
Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor Remover
Pros
- Pleasing citrus scent
- Works on a wide range of surfaces
Cons
- Tackling set-in stains is a long process
Type: Spray | Size: 24 ounces | Scent: Citrus
Nature's Miracle is one of the best products we've found for removing pet stains and odors. Like our top overall pick, it effectively tackles both the spot and any odor left behind. You can even use it to work out old set-in stains. You'll just need a little more product and patience, since this process requires covering the soiled area with a damp cloth for 12 hours before giving it any further attention.
The convenient spray can be used on carpets and other fabrics like mattresses and upholstery and even hardwood floors. Users love the light citrus scent, noting that it helps mask odors as the product works to truly eradicate them. Pets and children should stay away from the area while it dries.
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Odor Eliminator
Pros
- Carries the Carpet and Rug Institute Seal of Approval
- Works on hard and soft surfaces
Cons
- More expensive than others
Type: Spray | Size: 32 ounces | Scent: Not listed
This product has over 85,000 5-star Amazon reviews that prove exactly why it's so beloved. The oxygenated enzyme-based formula works hard to eliminate organic stains, including urine, vomit and feces, as well as their associated odors. Still, it's gentle enough to use in homes with kids and pets. It even has the coveted Carpet and Rug Institute Seal of Approval, which means the organization deemed the cleaner non-damaging to carpets.
When we tested it in the Cleaning Lab, it did a very good job zapping our test stains overall, completely erasing spaghetti sauce, chocolate syrup, coffee and almost totally removing mustard, too. Unlike some of our other picks that take time to work, the brand claims this one works in as few as 10 minutes. Shoppers back this up, noting how fast-acting the spray is, even for set-in stains, and one of our consumer testers said, “It completely removed a very bad dog accident stain from an oriental rug.”
Instead of waiting overnight, you'll begin to see results in about one hour. The tradeoff though is that Rocco & Roxie's formula is more expensive than most.
Angry Orange Stain Remover Enzyme Cleaner
Pros
- Pleasing scent
- Works on a wide range of surfaces
Cons
- More expensive than most
Type: Spray | Size: 32 ounces | Scent: Orange twist
Like other enzyme cleaners, this well-rated pick tackles the stains and smells associated with messes like pet urine, feces and vomit. It has an orange scent that comes from citrus enzymes and cold-pressed orange oils.
The formula is just as versatile as our other favorites too. The multi-surface cleaner works on most areas of the home, including carpet and hardwood floors, as well as other fabric and even turf (think of those doggie wee-wee areas!). Unfortunately, it's among one of the most expensive enzyme cleaners we considered.
Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover
Pros
- Three different spray settings
- Works quickly
Cons
- Some users say it has a strong chemical scent
Type: Spray | Size: 32 ounces | Scent: Not listed
Simple Solution makes a whole host of products for pets, but its Extreme Pet Stain and Odor Remover is a standout in the lineup. We especially like the three-in-one nozzle sprayer, which is equipped with foam, mist and stream settings to apply exactly what you need onto the stain. Use the mist or stream settings for carpets and upholstery and use the foam setting for hard surfaces, like those in the bathroom or a pet crate.
No matter which setting you use and what area you're cleaning, the formula works to break down, neutralize and entirely eradicate both the look and smell of tough messes like cat urine or dog feces. According to the brand, it only takes about five minutes to start working, and it will continue to work until the spot is fully dry. Some users say the smell of the product is rather chemical and wish it had more of the citrus scent that many other enzyme cleaners have.
Pros
- Works on both fabrics and hard surfaces
- Works for up to three days
Cons
- Some users wish it had a subtle scent
Type: Spray | Size: 16 ounces | Scent: Unscented
It's not exactly an enzyme cleaner, but this formula functions largely the same way and is just as effective yet gentle. The spray contains probiotics that eat away at the odor-causing bacteria in pet messes for up to three days after use. Upon testing it, we were so blown away by this spray cleaner's prowess that it earned a Best Cleaning & Organizing Award.
And while it works on carpets, pet bedding and other upholstery, our Lab pros say it performs better than most other enzyme formulas on hard surfaces. That means you can use it on sealed floors, furniture, bathroom tile and even your pet's crate — no excessive scrubbing required.
One tester even used it to clean up human urine from a potty-training accident, noting it got rid of both the stain and the odor almost instantly. We think this pick is a must for homes with young kids or cats and dogs, though some users miss the typical citrus scent of enzyme cleaners.
How we test enzyme cleaners
In the Good Housekeeping Institute's Cleaning Lab, we evaluate enzyme cleaners for how well they remove common pet stains from carpet, and when relevant, hard surfaces as well says Carolyn Forté, Cleaning Lab executive director. "We look at the ingredients and check the label for thoroughness of the directions, clarity any claims and necessary safety warnings. We can’t check the effectiveness of the enzymes in the Lab, so we enlist consumer testers with pets and small children to test them at home and provide feedback," she adds.
What to look for when shopping for the best enzyme cleaners
Of course, if you're shopping for an enzyme cleaner, you want to make sure the formula contains protease enzymes that will help eradicate both the stain and the smell. It's also helpful to pay attention to the following:
✔️ Safety for carpet fibers: If you intend to use the enzyme cleaner on carpets, make sure the formula is safe to use on dyed fibers and the type of fibers your carpets are made from. If you're unsure, contact the manufacturer of your home's carpet and ask if the dyes in the carpet are colorfast or test the cleaning solution in a small, inconspicuous part of the carpet before treating the stain.
✔️ Safety for use around pets: Arguably most important for those with dogs and cats, make sure the enzyme cleaner you're using is safe to use around pets. Household cleaners that contain bleach and some essential oils used for fragrance can be harmful to pets. Most cleaners specifically formulated for pet messes are also safe to use around pets, but our experts say you should always let recently cleaned surfaces dry completely before allowing pets back in the area — regardless of how safe a brand says its product is.
What cleaners are enzyme cleaners?
If a cleaner contains enzymes, the label will typically indicate this information. If you're not sure, look for the enzyme protease in the ingredients list. This is the enzyme that can break down stubborn and stinky protein stains like eggs, milk, blood, urine and other bodily fluids.
How do you make homemade enzyme cleaner?
If you're trying to tackle stains and odors associated with pet messes like cat pee or dog urine, the best cleaning products are ones with enzymes in their list of ingredients. Enzymes in cleaning products are specially formulated to chemically break down stains, eradicating hard and soft surfaces of both the stain itself and any odors associated with it.
Unfortunately, no DIY carpet cleaner can do exactly that, but in a pinch, you can get rid of pet odors with a bit of baking soda. First, clean away the stain using your usual carpet cleaner and let the area dry. Then, liberally sprinkle baking soda over the spot and let it sit for up to 30 minutes. Vacuum up the loose baking soda and fluff the carpet fibers with your fingers. Repeat as necessary.
Is Dawn dish soap or vinegar an enzyme cleaner?
Neither Dawn dish soap nor vinegar contain enzymes, so while they may be powerful household cleaners in their own right, they're not considered enzyme cleaners.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Brigitt Earley is a writer, editor and content creator with over 15 years of experience in the home and cleaning spaces. She put together this list of the best enzyme cleaners using data from past testing conducted by Cleaning Lab analysts, plus thoroughly researched the market to pinpoint other top-selling cleaners with overwhelmingly positive reviews from real users.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
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