How to Get Rid of the Smell of Cats in Your New Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, but discovering that it carries lingering cat smells can dampen your enthusiasm. Whether the previous owners had cats or your feline friend is accompanying you to your new place, it’s essential to address the smell of cats promptly to ensure a fresh and inviting environment.

Why does the smell of cats linger?

If you have cats or are moving into a home where the previous inhabitants were cat lovers, then you know how getting rid of cat smells can be quite challenging. That’s primarily because of these animals’ habits and biological characteristics. Cat urine, which contains strong-smelling compounds like ammonia, can seep into carpets, upholstery, and even wooden floors, making it difficult to remove completely.

Cats also have scent glands on their paws and faces, which they use to mark their territory by rubbing against surfaces. This behavior leaves behind oils and pheromones that contribute to the persistent odor. Additionally, cat fur and dander can become embedded in fabrics and air ducts, continually releasing a subtle but noticeable smell. Even their grooming habits, which spread saliva on their fur, can add to the overall scent that lingers in a home.

Here are some effective and friendly tips to help you get rid of unpleasant feline odors in your new home.

Get rid of the smell of cats in your home with the following tips

1. Deep Clean the Carpets and Floors

Carpets and floors can trap odors, especially cat urine, which contains strong-smelling ammonia. Start by vacuuming thoroughly to remove fur and dander. Consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional cleaning service to give your carpets a deep clean.

For hardwood or tile floors, use a pet-safe enzyme cleaner to break down any organic compounds causing the cat smell. Enzyme cleaners are specifically designed to target pet odors and can be very effective.

2. Wash Walls and Baseboards

Cats often rub against walls and baseboards, leaving behind oils and scents from their scent glands. Wash these areas with a mixture of water and white vinegar, which is excellent for neutralizing odors.

For stubborn spots, a bit of baking soda can help scrub away any residue. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with water to remove any cleaning solution and allow the surfaces to dry completely.

3. Clean Air Vents and Replace Filters

Air vents can harbor dust, dander, and odors, circulating cat smells throughout your new home. Remove vent covers and clean them with soap and water. Use a vacuum to remove any debris inside the ducts.

Additionally, replace the air filters in your HVAC system. High-quality HEPA filters can capture more particles, including pet dander, improving the overall air quality and reducing the cat smell.

Of course, just cleaning vents and filters may not be enough. Over time, cat fur, dander, and odors can accumulate in your HVAC system’s ducts, which can then circulate throughout your home whenever the system is running. By thoroughly cleaning the air ducts, you can remove these trapped particles and reduce the lingering smell of cats.

This process not only helps in reducing the smell but also improves the overall air quality in your home, making it a healthier environment for everyone. Hiring a professional duct cleaning service will be well worth your money if the smell of cats in your new home is overwhelming.

4. Refresh Upholstery and Curtains

Upholstered furniture and curtains can absorb and retain pet odors. If possible, remove and wash all fabric coverings. For non-removable upholstery, use a fabric-safe enzyme cleaner and a steam cleaner to penetrate deep into the fibers and remove cat smells.

Just be sure that everything is completely dry before putting it back in place to prevent mold or mildew from developing.

5. Use Natural Odor Absorbers

Natural odor absorbers like baking soda and activated charcoal can help eliminate the smell of cats. For example, you can place bowls of baking soda or bags of activated charcoal in rooms where the smell is strongest. These materials absorb odors over time and leave your home smelling fresher. Replace them every few weeks to maintain their effectiveness.

6. Ventilate and Purify the Air

Good ventilation is key to removing lingering odors. Open windows and doors to let fresh air circulate through your new home. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture pet dander and other particles that contribute to the smell of cats. Running fans can also help move air around and dissipate odors more quickly.

By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of the smell of cats in your new home and create a clean, welcoming space for you and your family. With a little effort and the right tools, you’ll be able to enjoy your new home without any unwanted odors.