How do YOU treat pet stains?

Pet stains can be both a blessing and a curse for carpet cleaners. They’re a reliable source of income, but the costs of specialized products like UPT and Milgo can really add up, as you’re noticing. It’s great that you’re making money, but optimizing your process and products might help you improve your margins.

A lot of cleaners find success by combining methods to tackle both surface and subsurface damage efficiently. Using a claw tool for subsurface extraction is definitely worth it if you’re dealing with deeper contamination. Tools like the Water Claw or the FlashXtractor are great for pulling out urine from the padding and subfloor, and they can reduce the amount of product you need to apply. While the initial investment in a claw tool might seem steep, it pays for itself pretty quickly if you’re doing a lot of pet-related jobs.

As for products, many cleaners swear by UPT and Milgo because they’re effective, but there are some alternatives that might save you money. Some people use bio-enzymatic cleaners like Pro’s Choice Molecular Modifier or Odorcide 210, which are excellent for breaking down organic matter. These products tend to work well for both the stain and odor, and depending on the dilution rates, they can be cost-effective. For severe cases, pairing an enzyme cleaner with a peroxide-based product like OSR (Odor Stain Remover) can deliver great results.

Another way to cut costs is by ensuring your application is as targeted as possible. Spot treat heavily contaminated areas instead of applying products over a broader area than necessary. A blacklight or moisture meter can help you pinpoint where the urine has spread, so you’re not wasting product.

Also, consider charging a premium for pet stain and odor treatments if you’re not already. Many clients are willing to pay more for a specialized service that solves their problem effectively. This helps cover the cost of higher-priced products and tools.

Finally, if you haven’t already, look into buying products in larger quantities or through a distributor. You might be able to get discounts by ordering drums instead of smaller cases, which can save you money in the long run.

It’s great that you’re taking the time to evaluate your process. Pet stain treatments can be one of the most profitable parts of your business if you balance effectiveness with cost management. Keep experimenting to see what works best for your setup!