What does the ASPCA say about cleaning products?
The ASPCA's guide to household products covers the ones that matter for carpet.
| Product | What the ASPCA says | For carpet |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning products generally | "Most cleaning products are safe to use around dogs and cats as long as they are used per labeled directions." | Follow the label; more is not better |
| Enzyme cleaners | "Most enzyme-based cleaners tend to cause mild stomach upset so ensure that these products dry prior to letting the pet into any area where they were used." | Pets off until the spot is dry |
| Bleach | "Ingestion of undiluted bleach can cause injury to the mouth and esophagus" | Never on carpet; it strips colour and reacts with urine |
| Birds | "Obtain veterinary advice when using cleaning products around birds, as they are extremely sensitive to the fumes." | Ask your vet before any cleaning; move the bird well away |
Why keep pets off until the carpet is dry?
Three reasons. Paws carry whatever is in damp carpet onto the pet, and pets lick their paws, which is the ASPCA's point about enzyme cleaners. Paws also track fresh soil into a carpet that has just had its soil taken out. And damp pile is where a pet is most likely to pick a new spot, because it smells unfamiliar. Plan on several hours; see how long carpet takes to dry.
Which home remedies are not safe?
Mixing. Transport Canada's CANUTEC warns that bleach with ammonia-based cleaners "creates chloramine vapours, which are harmful when inhaled", that urea in urine reacts with bleach the same way, and that hydrogen peroxide mixed with vinegar forms peracetic acid. A pet, low to the floor in a closed room, breathes those vapours first. Use one product at a time and rinse between them.
What should I do to get ready with pets in the house?
- Put pets in a room that is not being cleaned, or out with a friend, before the cleaner arrives.
- Move food and water bowls, beds and toys out of the rooms being done.
- Tell the cleaner about every pet accident area, so it is treated first.
- If you keep birds, ask your vet first and move the cage well away, with fresh air.
- Keep the gate up until the carpet is dry to the touch.
What if a pet gets into a product?
Call your veterinarian. The ASPCA's advice for any suspected exposure is to "contact your veterinarian or call poison control immediately"; the number it gives for its Animal Poison Control line is (888) 426-4435. Have the product container with you when you call. For everything else about pets and carpet, see the pet carpet care section and enzyme cleaners.
Get a free carpet cleaning quote
Tell us which rooms, how many stairs, and about any pets or stains. We reply within one business day, by phone or email, and the quote is agreed before anyone starts.