A few months ago, my sweet pup had a bit of an “oops” moment — right onto my brand-new area rug. I can still recall the panic that washed over me as I looked down at the disaster: Great, there goes my cozy living room. The smell, it was terrible — like it had stuck to every fiber. But I wasn’t going to let a stink monster win.
Since then, I’ve become pretty good (unintentionally) at handling vomit smells. I’ve learned a lot about how to kick that foul smell to the curb. So here is my go-to cleanup recipe — and some hard-learned tips.
The Solution
Ingredients:
2 cups hydrogen peroxide
Two tsp baking soda
2 drops liquid dish soap
Instructions:
Combine hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and a drop of dish soap, and let the solution dissolve baking soda completely. This combo is EFFFING AMAZING – it can take down even the most heinous smells.
Use it to clean everything from stuffed animals and clothes to car seats and carpets. I’ve had to save a stinky plush unicorn (a present from my niece) after a toddler’s rowdy car trip. After a good soak in this concoction, the unicorn was fresh all over again — as if nothing had ever happened.
Blot the area with towels or rags to absorb as much of the liquid as you’re able. If the smell lingers, simply repeat the process — it works. Just a fair warning: if you use it on delicate fabrics, give it a test run in a hidden spot first to be sure.
DIY Cleaning Solution for Stubborn Stains
Although my go-to recipe works like a dream, I recently stumbled on another amazing cleaning solution that is just as effective for removing the smell and stains from where my kids have vomited all over the place. It comes together fast, is flexible, and relies on pantry items. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
1/4 cup Dawn dish soap
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 cup vinegar
1 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle. Generously spray the solution over the affected region. Let it sit for a few minutes to help remove the smell and stains. Pat the wet spot with a clean towel or cloth to soak up the moisture .If necessary, repeat until odor disappears. Not only does this combination get rid of vomit smells, but it also removes smells in ovens, stovetops and cookie sheets. It has been a life-saver in my cleaning collection.
Tackling Specific Spots
Carpet: Blot up any remaining liquid with paper towels or rags, then douse generously with spot cleaner. Pat dry with a towel to remove moisture and odor. Repeat until the odor clears. I actually did a friends entire carpet like this one time after they threw a wild party. You won’t believe how well it did!
Car Seats: Cleaning puke out of car seats is a slow process that requires patience and elbow greasy. The solution was a life saver when my niece had an accident on a road trip with the family and we didn’t have to smell it the rest of the way. Repeat until no smell is left. No need, just air it out by opening the windows.
Furniture: Blot, don’t rub, the stain, I learned the hard way. After the first time I attempted scrubbing, my poor couch looked like a crime scene. Blotting will help to contain the stain so it doesn’t spread. Soak the stain with the solution and tap with a towel or rag to soak up the moisture.
Clothing & Stuffed Animals: Sensitive items like stuffies need an easier touch. You may have to let these soak in the solution and hand-wash them after. My niece’s unicorn plushie made it through unscathed.
Tips
Ventilation: Ventilate the room as much as possible. Open windows, put on a fan and allow for fresh air to help speed up the drying process and the removal of any persistent odors.
Enzyme Cleaners: If homemade isn’t doing the job, a commercial enzyme cleaner is a great treatment. Excellent for organic stains and odors.
Essential Oils: Get rid of any lingering smells and add a pleasant fragrance to your home: It’s time for some essential oils! Personal favorites are lavender and lemon.
It’s not like the smell of vomit is great or preferable smell (certainly not to me—anything instantly gags me). But after cleaning up more than my fair share of messes — the wet ones from my dog, and the disastrous ones from my niece, not to mention that one memorable road trip — I’ve discovered that with the right supplies and a little patience, you can get your home smelling fresh again. Whether you opt for my standby hydrogen peroxide formula or experiment with lemon and vinegar — whatever! — you’ll have an awesome solution on your hands. Believe me, if I can handle it, so can you… and your nose will thank you!
