• Until your puppy learns the basics of house training, you need to keep stains and odor at bay.puppy image by SKYDIVECOP from Fotolia.com
  
  If you have pets, you likely understand the frustration of the carpet stains that come with house or litterbox training. Proper cleaning and stain removal is not only key to a fresh smelling home, but to the success of your pet's training as well.
  
  

Soak it Up

• Newspaper will not only absorb wetness but odor as well.newspaper image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com
  
  Many people apply sprays and other stain removal chemicals directly to urine spots without blotting the area first. Instead, first soak up as much of the urine as possible with a clean, dry rag that can be disposed of or a combination of paper towel and newspaper. The stain should be just barely damp when you are finished.
  
  

Rinse

• Rinse before the stain has a chance to set.robinet image by razorconcept from Fotolia.com
  
  After you have soaked up all of the urine or fecal matter, the Humane Society of the United States recommends that you rinse the affected area with clean, cool water. Warm or hot water may cause the stain to set. Repeat section 1 by soaking up as much of the water as possible with clean paper towels and newspaper. You want to remove as much of the urine and odor as possible before treating with any chemicals.
  
  

Extraction

• A regular vacuum will not be effective against wet stains.vacuum cleaner image by vb_photo from Fotolia.com
  
  Extraction is an excellent way to remove both fresh and set stains by forcing clean water in and dirty water back out. If you do not own an extracting machine, you can rent one from your local hardware store. According to the Humane Society, you should never use chemicals with an extracting machine as they function better with clean water. If an extractor is unavailable, a wet vac will work in a pinch.
  
  

Avoid Steam

• Man-made fibers cling to odors when exposed to heat.woolen carpet texture image by Tolbxela from Fotolia.com
  
  The Carpet and Rug Institute advises against using steam to clean pet stains. Because the heat can cause the protein in your pet's waste to bond with the fibers of your carpet, use of a steam cleaner will result in a permanent stain and odor problem.
  
  

Neutralize Odor

• General carpet cleaners will not do the trick.spray image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
  
  To rid the affected area of any odors that may encourage your pet to stain the area in the future, you will need to use a neutralizing enzyme made specifically for pet stains. The Carpet and Rug Institute provides a seal of approval to a variety of cleaning products suitable for pet stains and odors. Any cleaner that has been formulated to neutralize pet stains and odors will work, but only if the area has been rinsed to remove any residue from not only the stain but other cleaners as well.