Urination marks from pets can be tricky to remove from wood because of how moisture and acids interact with the material. Here’s why:
Absorption into Wood Fibers
Wood is porous, meaning it can absorb liquids—including pet urine—deep into the grain. If not cleaned immediately, the urine can soak into the fibres, making surface cleaning insufficient to fully remove stains and odors.
Acidic Nature of Urine
Pet urine contains ammonia and uric acid, which can react with wood finishes, causing discoloration or even breaking down protective coatings. Over time, it can leave a stubborn stain that alters the wood’s appearance.
Impact of Light & Time
Older stains that haven’t been treated may become more noticeable over time, especially in sunlight or high-traffic areas. The longer urine sits, the more deeply embedded it becomes, making removal much harder.
How to Minimize Damage
Act fast – Blot the urine immediately to prevent absorption.
Use enzymatic cleaners – These help break down odor-causing compounds effectively.
Light sanding & refinishing – If stains persist, a gentle sanding followed by refinishing may restore the surface.
Side note: Some deep stains may not fully disappear, but they can often be blended into the wood’s natural finish or treated to minimize their visibility!
Are you dealing with a fresh stain or an older one?
