Timing

• For better effectiveness of any cleaner, including home remedies, the timing is imperative. The quicker you get around to removing the stain, the better luck you will have. Having some of your chosen home remedy on hand can help with this. However, if you don't spot the stain until it's set for awhile, home remedies can still help.
  
  Always have a clean towel ready to use as well. Don't use a dirty one, as the dirt can rub off and make the stain even worse. Although white cloths are recommended, you can use a colored towel as long as the color is sure to not run.
  
  

Cleaning the Stain

• When searching for old pet stains that are not so visible to the eye, shine a black light over the carpet so they will become more visible. Once you have found all of the stains, start the cleaning process.
  
  One of the best remedies for cleaning pet stains is white vinegar diluted in water. The solution can be made in various proportions, but the most common ones are the 50/50 mixture or a similar proportion. Spray this solution over the stain and start blotting it with the clean cloth. If you want to use dish detergent along with this, then you can. Put a small amount of clear detergent on the cloth and rub it into the stain before applying the vinegar solution.
  
  Rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide can also be used as a remedy by blotting in the same way. For harsher stains, get a sponge and rub the stain, but don't rub with a lot of force. A note of caution: alcohol and peroxide may cause carpet or upholstery to fade, so test this method on small, hidden area first.
  
  

Deodorizing

• Even when the stain has disappeared, sometimes the scent still remains. Also, if you are using the vinegar solution, there will probably be the remains of that scent as well.
  
  One of the most effective home remedies for combating these odors is baking soda. Only use this once you have already cleaned the stain and have let it dry completely. Sprinkle a layer of baking soda over the spot and leave it there overnight or for at least several hours. After this amount of time, vacuum up the baking soda and the odor will be gone as well.