Do you clean rugs in-home?

Our workshop and equipment are highly specialized for in-plant rug cleaning. Our equipment, such as rug centrifuges to remove water-dry soil removal, weighs as much as a car and requires industrial power. It's important to note that these systems are not portable to your home and cannot be mimicked by in-home carpet cleaning methods such as shampoo and hot water extraction.

How long does it take to clean my rug?

Most cleanings take 7-10 business days; sometimes, it can take a little longer to work through some spots and stains or if your rug is being hand repaired.

Drop-off Rug Cleaning, can I drop my rug off to you?

Yes, Renaissance Rug Cleaning is open 9:30-5:30 on weekdays; no appointment is needed, and we have off-street parking; our friendly staff is more than happy to unload your rugs for you.

Can stains be Removed?

A number of factors affect the ability to remove stains, the type of stain and the material of the rug, previous spotting attempts, and the age of the stain; Some stains can photo oxidize and become impossible to remove. The sooner you can attend to the stain, the better chance you have of removing it completely. It's important to use an appropriate cleaning product and cleaning chemistry for the stain. Improper spot cleaning and cleaning products can compound a stain and make in harder or impossible to remove

Can you get pet odors out of my rug?

Yes, we remove pet odors all the time; it's relatively simple for us to remove pet odors without upsells for exotic spotters or decontamination baths, or your rug-smelling perfumy, and at our normal cleaning price, we don't charge more for pet odors.

What kinds of rugs do you clean?

We clean any kind of area rug Persian, oriental, tribal rugs, braided, shags, Kilims, dhurrie, Morrocan, tufted wool, border rugs, and natural or synthetic fibers. If it's an area rug that can be rolled up and brought into our workshop we can clean it.

Do you give free estimates ?

Yes, call or email us sizes, and we will gladly provide you with cleaning estimates. Additionally, when you drop your rug off, we will give you a written receipt with clear pricing and the work to be done

Effective Methods for Removing Pet Urine and Odors from Wool and Silk Rugs

Renaissance
7 days ago
5 min read

Pet accidents happen more often than we like, especially on rugs where our furry friends spend time. These accidents can cause lasting damage, particularly to delicate materials like wool and silk. Understanding why pet urine affects these fibers and how to treat the stains properly is key to removing pet urine from Wool and Silk Rugs, helping save your rugs and keep your home fresh.

Close-up view of a wool rug with a pet urine stain being gently blotted — Gently blotting pet urine stain on wool rug

Why Pet Accidents Are Common and How They Damage Fibres

Pets, especially young or untrained ones, may urinate indoors due to excitement, anxiety, or health issues. Rugs often become targets because they are soft, absorbent, and sometimes smell like a safe spot to pets. Urine contains ammonia and other compounds that can break down fibers and cause discoloration.

In wool and silk rugs, urine can weaken fibers, causing permanent damage if not treated promptly. The smell also lingers because urine seeps deep into the rug’s pile and backing, making it hard to remove with surface cleaning alone.

Why Wool and Silk Rugs Need Special Care

Wool and silk are natural fibers with unique properties. Wool has a protective outer layer called lanolin, while silk is a protein fiber with a delicate structure. Both can be damaged by harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, or improper cleaning methods.

Using pH-neutral solutions is essential because acidic or alkaline cleaners can alter dyes strip natural oils from wool and silk, leading to brittleness or fading. Also, these fibers absorb water quickly; their absorbency makes pet urine removal more challenging.

Immediate Response: Is Key to Pet Urine Removal from Wool and Silk Rugs

Acting fast is key to preventing permanent stains and odors. Here’s how to respond immediately when you find pet urine on your wool or silk rug:

Blot, don’t rub: Use a clean, white cloth or paper towels to gently blot the urine. Press down to absorb as much liquid as possible without rubbing, which can push the urine deeper into the fibers.
Use absorbents: Use paper towels or white dishcloths.
Be Careful of Home remedies: Avoid sprinkling baking soda or cornstarch over the area. While this may help soak up moisture and neutralize odors. These products alter pH, drive color run, and can be difficult to remove.
Avoid soaking: Do not pour water or cleaning solutions directly on the stain. Excess moisture can be difficult to address in the home and can damage wool and silk.
Ventilate the area: Open windows or use fans to help dry the rug quickly and reduce odor buildup.

Common DIY Methods for Pet Urine Removal from Wool and Silk Rugs

Vinegar and water mix: A mild solution can neutralize ammonia, but this solution does not remove the source, the urine in the foundation on the rug
Baking soda: Helps absorb moisture and odors, but alters the rug's pH and can cause dyes to bleed; we don't recommend this.
Hydrogen peroxide: Can bleach colors and weaken fibers, so it’s risky for wool and silk.
Commercial pet stain removers: Some are safe for delicate rugs, but always check labels for pH balance and fiber compatibility.

DIY Solutions Compared to Professional Treatments

Many household remedies claim to remove pet urine stains and odors, but their effectiveness varies, especially on delicate rugs. Often, products only mask the smell for a short time and require more spray and a buildup of cleaning chemicals.

Effective removal is only done by washing or removing the source of the odor, the urine itself. There is no effective topical treatment that removes the soaking in urine.

Create an emergency kit: Keep absorbent cloths, mild hand dish detergent( Planet, Seventh Generation), and a safe cleaning solution handy for quick response.

When to call the Pros

Every professional rug cleaner will tell you the first step in odor removal is washing the rug to remove the source, the urine that has soaked into the foundation, not a topical spray treatment.

If the urine has soaked through the rug or your rug is stiff with pet urine, the only way to remove it is by a full washing, using specialized pet odor cleaners, and in some cases, enzyme treatments.

rug washing to remove pet urine odors form area rugs andoriental carpets — Drop off rug washing the effective way to remove pet odors

Rug Enzyme Treatments

Specialist cleaners may use enzyme-based solutions designed to break down urine molecules, but rug enzymes can harm fibers particulalry in antique oriental rugs. For wool and silk rugs, these products need to be rinsed from the rug. Care should be taken when using an enzyme-based cleaner.

Calling a professional is advisable when stains are old, large, or have soaked through the rug backing. Professionals also handle delicate fibers with care, reducing/mitigate the risk of damage.

Preventing Future Incidents

Prevention is often easier than cleaning. Here are practical steps to reduce pet accidents on your wool and silk rugs:

Pet training: Consistent house training and positive reinforcement help pets learn where to go.
Use rug pads: A waterproof pad under the rug protects floors and cushions the rug, making cleaning easier.
Limit access: Restrict pets from certain rooms or rugs if accidents are frequent.
Health Issues: Pet accidents can be a sign of serious illness, kidney issues, a urinary tract infection, or the need for medical attention.
Moving or remodeling: Both can cause stress that leads to accidents. Extra playtime and a long walk to stretch the paws and destress can help.

Need Help With Your Area Rugs?

Have a question or need a professional opinion? Give us a call at (503) 963‑8565 or use our online contact form. We hand‑wash every rug at our dedicated Portland facility because steam cleaning can damage fibres, dyes, and structure.

Why Choose Renaissance Rug Cleaning?

We specialise exclusively in area rugs, from heirloom Persian pieces to modern wool rugs. Our technicians use traditional immersion cleaning to remove dirt and stains without leaving harmful residues. As a local, family‑run business, we’ve earned the trust of homeowners and rug retailers across the Portland metro area.

Protect Your Investment

Don’t let your rug slide, wear out prematurely or damage your floors. Our custom‑cut rug pads are designed to protect rugs, improve safety, and extend their life. Each pad is washable, adhesive-free,e and pet‑safe. Call us with your rug’s measurements, and we’ll cut a pad to fit your exact size.

Service Area, Drop‑Off Rug Cleaning, Rug Pickup & Delivery

We serve Portland, Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Tigard, Vancouver, and the surrounding areas. You can also drop off your rug at our Southeast Portland workshop at

1926 SE 10th Ave,

503-963-8565

Open Monday–Friday 9:30 am–5:30 pm.

No appointment is needed for drop‑offs.