Urine and other pet wastes are acidic and can quickly damage the wood finish and the wood itself if left to sit. When an accident occurs, soak up as much liquid as possible with a paper towel. Then, use a specialized enzymatic cleaner specifically safe for hardwood, which targets the organic components of the waste. Do not use generic household cleaners or ammonia, as they can cause chemical reactions that permanently discolor the wood. If the accident has already penetrated the finish, you may need a professional flooring specialist.
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How do I clean pet accidents on hardwood floors?
Pet accidents should be cleaned immediately using an enzymatic cleaner formulated for wood floors. These cleaners break down the proteins and odors in the waste, preventing the liquid from soaking into the wood fibers or reacting with the finish and causing permanent staining.