How to Remove Rat Urine Smell & Other Rodent Signs

Rats and other rodents are nuisances that can invade your home and, even worse, pose a severe health risk. According to the National Pest Management Association, rodents contaminate 20% of the world’s food stores, spreading diseases like salmonella and hantavirus. These intruders are also responsible for millions of dollars in yearly property damage. Here’s further insight into the tell-tale signs of a rodent infestation and how to remove the rat urine smell.

Signs of Rodent Infestation

Rodents like rats are extremely persistent creatures that rapidly reproduce. Below are three of the most common indicators you have a rat problem.

Strange Noises

If you hear scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds, chances are there are rodents in your home. These noises are most common at night since rats are instinctively nocturnal to avoid predators and human detection. You may also hear high-pitched squeaking or chattering as the rats communicate. 

You’ll likely hear these strange noises inside your walls, ceilings, or floors. If you’re unsure whether the noise is from a rodent or some other animal, consider setting up a motion-activated camera. Alternatively, call a rodent elimination company like Budget Brothers to inspect your home.

Rat Droppings 

Another distinct sign of rodent infestation is their droppings. Rats, mice, and other rodents leave behind small, pellet-shaped droppings that are usually near food sources or nesting areas. You can find mice droppings in your kitchen, pantry, drawers, or cupboards. 

Fresh droppings are small, dark, and soft to the touch, while older droppings are light in color and crumbly. If you find rodent droppings in your home or workplace, it’s essential to take action by clearing them immediately to prevent further contamination.

Odd Smell

One of the most unpleasant signs of rodent infestation is the strong, pungent urine odors they leave behind. Rodents mark their territory by leaving urine and feces, which can quickly accumulate and cause a foul smell. Rat and mouse urine can leave behind stains on carpets and walls, making it easier to identify the source of the smell. In addition, once rodents die in some secluded spot, they rot and give off a nasty odor. 

How to Remove Rat Urine Smell

Rat urine has a disgusting odor you’d want to eliminate immediately. In addition to being unpleasant, this odor can trigger allergies and respiratory problems in some people. Here are some effective methods to remove the rat urine smell, eliminating mouse infestation, and revert your home to its natural fresh odor. 

Clean the Household

The first step to removing rat urine smell involves cleaning your home thoroughly. Use a disinfectant solution and a scrubbing brush or paper towels to clean contaminated household objects where urine is present, such as walls, floors, and furniture. You can use a bleach solution or an enzyme cleaner to remove any lingering smells. These cleaning products break down the proteins and byproducts responsible for urine smell. 

Lemon juice is an excellent natural cleaning alternative. Pay special attention to areas that rats are known to frequent, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Removing rat droppings or debris is essential, as they can contribute to the odor.

Air Out the Household

After the thorough cleanse, open all the windows in your home for a few hours to allow fresh air to circulate. Aeration helps to get rid of rat urine odor and prevents mold development in your home. You can also use fans or air purifiers to speed up the process. Additionally, consider using natural odor absorbers, such as baking soda, charcoal, or vinegar, to absorb any remaining smells.

Clean All the Carpets 

Rodent urine can quickly penetrate carpets and leave a persistent odor. Since you will make direct contact with the contaminated areas, wear rubber gloves and a mask before cleaning. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for pet stains and odors. 

Apply a good detergent on the carpet, and using a big brush, scrub your carpet in circular movements, with special attention to stained areas. Once done, rinse the carpet using a hose or high-pressure water gun if available. If your carpet is fitted to the floor, use a steam cleaner for a proper deep cleanse. If the smell persists, consider replacing the carpet entirely.

Hire Professional Rat Removal

If you can’t remove the rat infestation, consider hiring a professional rat removal service. The experts remove the rodents and clean up any urine or droppings left behind. Additionally, they can help you identify and seal any entry points where rats may have been entering your home, preventing future infestations. This also helps with disease control and eliminating lingering odors.

Exterminate Rats With Budget Brother

Rodent infestations can cause serious health risks and property damage if not dealt with promptly. If you notice any signs of rodent infestation, such as strange noises, rat droppings, or odd smells, it’s crucial to take action immediately. 

Here at Budget Brothers, we can assist you in regaining control of your home using our expert rodent control methods. Contact us today for a long-term solution to your rodent menace that will save you from costly property damage.