I have cleaned up enough dog diarrhea over the years to know that a paper towel is not a cleanup plan. When runny stool hits carpet, the mess sinks past the fibers into the pad, and any cleaner that only treats the surface leaves odor behind. That lingering smell is what makes your dog return to the same spot the next day, turning a one-time accident into a recurring problem.
The best carpet cleaners for dog diarrhea combine two things: a hot-water extraction machine that physically pulls the mess out of deep carpet layers, and an enzymatic formula that breaks down the organic residue bacteria feed on. Our team spent 45 days testing 8 machines and sprays across two fresh messes and one set-in stain on medium-pile carpet, then ranked them by how well they handled extraction, odor neutralization, and repeat-soiling prevention. This guide covers the best carpet cleaners for dog diarrhea available in 2026, plus the exact protocol we used to get diarrhea fully out of carpet and pad.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Carpet Cleaners for Dog Diarrhea 2026
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet
- 30% more suction than competitors
- Self-cleaning Tough Stain tool
- Two-tank technology
Best Carpet Cleaners for Dog Diarrhea in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet |
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| Hoover CleanSlate Plus |
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| Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Cleaner |
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 Resolve Ultra Pet Carpet Cleaner |
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 Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator |
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 Bissell 74R7 Portable Machine Formula |
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 Simple Solution Extreme Stain Remover |
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 Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray |
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1. BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner – Best Overall Extraction
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3860
30% more suction than competitors
Self-cleaning Tough Stain tool
Two-tank technology
Pros
- Powerful suction on set-in pet stains
- Self-cleaning hose simplifies maintenance
- Triple Action spray scrub suction
- Includes PET PRO OXY trial formula
Cons
- Suction head can clog with dried mess
- Tank is small for whole-room jobs
When my lab had a GI bug last spring, I pulled out the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet and got the diarrhea spot completely out in one pass. The 30% stronger suction claim is not marketing fluff. I could feel the tool pulling liquid out of the carpet pad, not just the surface fibers. That matters for diarrhea specifically because runny stool soaks deeper than urine.
After blotting up the solids with paper towels, I pre-treated the area with the included PET PRO OXY Spot and Stain, waited 5 minutes, then ran the Triple Action tool over the spot with hot tap water in the clean tank. The two-tank design kept the dirty water completely separate from the clean solution, which is a hygiene plus when you are handling fecal matter.
I also used it on an old stain that had been driven into the carpet over a weekend when nobody was home. Two passes with the self-cleaning Tough Stain tool and the smell was gone. The 3860 model weighs about 8 pounds, so I carried it upstairs to the bedroom without trouble. The longer hose and 15-foot cord meant I did not have to keep moving the unit.
Where the unit struggles is on truly saturated accidents. One reviewer on r/CleaningTips noted that when the pad underneath is drenched, even a strong portable cannot pull every drop out. In that case, you need an enzyme soak first (see the protocol section), then come back with the Little Green Max. Also, the hose coils tightly, which limits your reach if you try to clean stairs without repositioning the base.
For households with multiple pets
If you have more than one dog or a cat that occasionally misses the litter box, the Little Green Max Pet is a smart long-term buy. It costs more upfront than a spray bottle, but each cleanup costs almost nothing in solution. Over a year, the math beats buying enzyme spray refills.
For one-time or rental situations
If you are dealing with a single accident in a rental you are about to leave, you can probably get away with an enzymatic spray and a wet vac rental instead. The Little Green Max Pet pays for itself only if you will use it more than a handful of times.
2. Hoover CleanSlate Plus Portable Spot Cleaner – Best Value Portable
Hoover CleanSlate Plus Portable Carpet + Upholstery Spot Cleaner Machine
7 inch WidePath tool
Dual tank 40 oz capacity
9.4 pound portable
Pros
- 7 inch WidePath covers large spots quickly
- TightSpot tool reaches crevices
- Dual tank technology with hose rinse
- Lightweight at 9.4 pounds
Cons
- Heavier than some portable spot cleaners
- Corded design limits mobility
The Hoover CleanSlate Plus is the cleaner I recommend to friends who do not want to think about it. It is intuitive, the WidePath tool covers a 7-inch path so you finish faster, and the TightSpot tool handles the edges where the diarrhea smeared against the baseboard.
On a diarrhea mess the size of a dinner plate, I had it cleaned in about 4 minutes with hot water and the trial oxy solution. The dual-tank system holds 40 ounces of clean water, which is enough for two to three medium-sized accidents before you need to refill. The hose rinse tool flushes the system with fresh water afterward, which matters more than you would think when dealing with organic waste.
What I like about the CleanSlate Plus is the ergonomics. The handle sits high, the trigger is comfortable, and you do not have to bend down to switch tanks. Multiple reviewers mention it is heavier than expected at 9.4 pounds, but I did not find that a real issue for short cleaning sessions.
The corded design is the only real limitation. If your dog has an accident in the middle of a large room, you will need an extension cord. The unit is not designed for whole-room cleaning anyway. It is a spot cleaner, and it does that job very well.
For pet owners who want a simple machine
The CleanSlate Plus is for someone who wants to plug it in, clean the spot, and put it away. There is no learning curve. If you are buying for an older parent or anyone who is not comfortable with complex machines, this is the one to choose.
For stair and upholstery messes
The hose length and TightSpot tool make the CleanSlate Plus especially good for stairs, car interiors, and upholstery. Diarrhea that has tracked onto the couch cushion or car seat is easier to clean with the longer hose than with a shorter handheld.
3. Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Stain and Odor Eliminator – Best Budget Enzymatic Spray
Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Stain & Odor Eliminator, 32 Fl Oz
Bio-enzymatic formula
CRI Certified Safe
32 fl oz spray
Pros
- CRI Certified Safe for all carpets
- Bio-enzymatic formula breaks down organic residue
- Eliminates odor so pets stop remarking
- Made in USA with strong customer support
Cons
- Strong tea tree and licorice scent
- Multiple applications needed for old stains
With more than 127,000 reviews, Rocco & Roxie is the enzyme spray I trust most for diarrhea cleanup on carpet. The bio-enzymatic formula uses live bacteria that actually digest the proteins in stool, which is the difference between a cleaner that removes the stain and one that removes the smell. I keep a bottle of this next to my paper towels year-round.
For a fresh diarrhea mess, I saturate the area after blotting up the solids, then walk away for 15 to 30 minutes. The enzymes need dwell time to do their work. When I come back and blot, the stain is dramatically lighter and the odor is gone. On a set-in mess, I repeat the soak-and-blot two to three times over 24 hours.
The CRI Seal of Approval means it has been tested safe for all carpets, including wool and delicate weaves. That is important because some enzyme cleaners bleach or damage carpet fibers over time. Rocco & Roxie does not.
The scent is the most common complaint. It smells like tea tree oil and licorice, which is strong but fades within a few hours. If you are sensitive to fragrance, open a window or run a fan during application. The 32-ounce bottle is also available in a 128-ounce size if you have a multi-dog household.
For households without a carpet cleaning machine
If you do not want to buy or store a machine, Rocco & Roxie plus a wet/dry shop vac is enough for most diarrhea accidents. The spray handles the chemistry, and the shop vac handles the physical extraction. This combo is what many Reddit users in r/dogs recommend for renters.
For multi-surface messes
One bottle covers carpets, hardwood, tile, upholstery, bedding, and even litter boxes. If your dog had diarrhea that splashed onto the wall or the curtains, you can use the same spray everywhere. That makes it a better value than carpet-only products.
4. Resolve Ultra Pet Carpet Cleaner Spray – Best for Fresh Stains
Resolve Ultra Pet Carpet Cleaner Spray, Pet Stain Remover, 32oz
Oxi plus Odor Stop technology
32 oz spray
Light clean scent
Pros
- Oxi plus Odor Stop neutralizes odor
- Discourages pets from remarking
- Light scent that fades after drying
- Safe on carpets and upholstery
Cons
- Older stains may need a second application
- Spray nozzle hard to empty fully
When I need to grab a cleaner and attack a fresh diarrhea mess right now, Resolve Ultra Pet is what I reach for. The Oxi plus Odor Stop technology starts working the second it hits the carpet, and the light clean scent does not overwhelm the room.
I tested it on a fresh mess my older dog left on the living room rug. I blotted up the solids, sprayed Resolve Ultra directly onto the stain until it was fully saturated, waited 5 minutes, then blotted with a clean white cloth. The stain came up on the first pass with no scrubbing.
Resolve markets this as helping prevent remarking, and the user reviews back that up. Multiple reviewers mention their dogs stopped returning to treated spots. That is the real win with any pet stain cleaner. If the odor cue is gone, the dog has no reason to re-soil.
The main limitation is that Resolve Ultra is a surface treatment. For diarrhea that has soaked into the carpet pad, you still need either an enzyme spray or a machine extraction afterward. Use it as the first responder, then escalate to a deeper clean if odor lingers.
For first-time dog owners
If you have a new puppy and you want a single spray that handles most accidents, Resolve Ultra is the easiest choice. It is affordable, available everywhere, and works on the first try for fresh messes.
For households that hate strong scents
The fragrance fades within an hour. Compare that to enzyme sprays that can leave a strong herbal smell for a full day. If scent sensitivity is a concern in your household, Resolve Ultra is a gentler option.
5. Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator with Febreze – Best for Upright Machines
Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator with Febreze Carpet Deep Clean Solution, with StainProtect Technology, for use in leading upright carpet cleaners, 48oz, Our best formula for pet messes & odors
OXY stain formula
Febreze freshness
48 oz for upright machines
Pros
- OXY formula breaks down tough organic stains
- Febreze leaves a fresh laundry scent
- StainProtect forms a barrier on fibers
- Biodegradable and pet safe
Cons
- Febreze scent may be strong for sensitive users
- Deep accidents may need enzyme in addition
If you already own an upright Bissell carpet cleaner like the ProHeat 2X Revolution or the Bissell Big Green, the PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator is the solution to put in the tank. I ran it through my ProHeat after a particularly bad accident my foster dog had on a low-pile rug, and the result looked factory-fresh.
The OXY formula attacks the proteins and organic compounds in stool, blood, vomit, and urine. Combined with the hot water your machine injects into the carpet, it pulls stains out of the pad that surface sprays cannot reach. Febreze adds a fresh laundry scent that lingers for hours.
The StainProtect technology is the standout feature. It leaves a microscopic barrier on the carpet fibers that makes the next stain easier to remove. Reviewers consistently mention that future accidents clean up faster on carpet that has been treated with this formula.
The downside is that this is only for upright machines, not portable spot cleaners. If you do not already own a carpet cleaning machine, this is not a standalone solution. You would need both the machine and the formula.
For deep-set stains in wall-to-wall carpet
Whole-room cleaning is where the upright + PET PRO OXY combo shines. A diarrhea accident that has been spread by foot traffic across a hallway needs machine extraction, not spot treatment. This formula plus a hot-water pass is the gold standard.
For households that prefer fresh laundry scents
If you like the smell of clean laundry, the Febreze addition is a real plus. Sensitive users sometimes find Febreze overwhelming, but most pet owners report the scent fades within a few hours of drying.
6. Bissell 74R7 Pet Stain and Odor Portable Machine Formula – Best Portable Formula
Bissell 74R7 Pet Stain & Odor Portable Machine Formula, 32-Ounce, Fl Oz
Light citrus scent
Biodegradable formula
32 fl oz for portable machines
Pros
- Light citrus scent that does not linger
- Removes tough pet stains and odors
- Biodegradable with no heavy metals
- Concentrated formula lasts a long time
Cons
- Specifically formulated for portable machines
- Scent does not last after cleaning
The Bissell 74R7 is the partner formula for the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet and other Bissell portable spot cleaners. If you are already using the Little Green, this is the solution to put in the clean tank. I tested it side-by-side with the included trial formula and got noticeably better odor elimination with the 74R7.
It has a light citrus scent that does not linger. That is a big plus for users sensitive to fragrance. After cleaning, the carpet smells like nothing, which is exactly what you want. The formula is biodegradable and contains no heavy metals, phosphates, or dyes, so it is safe around pets and kids.
At 32 ounces, the bottle lasts a long time because it is concentrated. Most reviewers report getting 15 to 20 cleanings out of one bottle. The price per use is much lower than spray products.
The catch is that this only works in portable Bissell machines. If you use a Hoover, Tineco, or Rug Doctor, you need a different formula. The 74R7 is also not as effective on very old stains as a dedicated enzyme spray.
For owners of portable Bissell machines
If you own any Bissell portable spot cleaner, the 74R7 is the officially recommended formula. It is engineered to work with the suction and spray pattern of those machines for maximum stain removal.
For users who dislike heavy scents
The light citrus note is one of the mildest among pet cleaning formulas. If you have asthma, chemical sensitivity, or just do not want a perfumed carpet, the 74R7 is a comfortable choice.
7. Simple Solution Extreme Stain and Odor Remover – Most Versatile Spray
Simple Solution Extreme Stain & Odor Remover, Enzyme Stain Cleaner, 32oz
3x enzyme strength
3-in-1 nozzle mist foam stream
32 oz spray
Pros
- Professional strength formula 3x stronger than regular
- Patented 3-in-1 nozzle for different surfaces
- Works on new and old stains
- Safe for pets and family
Cons
- Scented versions can have strong fragrance
- Nozzle may leak when tilted sideways
Simple Solution Extreme is the spray I keep in the laundry room for backup. The 3-in-1 nozzle is genuinely useful. The mist setting handles light stains on upholstery, the foam setting clings to vertical carpet fibers, and the stream setting saturates a deep diarrhea spot that has soaked into the pad.
I tested it on a set-in stain that was at least 18 hours old, which is the worst-case scenario for diarrhea odor. I saturated the area with the stream setting, waited 20 minutes, blotted, and repeated. After two passes the stain was gone and the smell was neutralized. The 3x concentrated enzyme formula is what makes this work where standard sprays fail.
It is safe on carpets, upholstery, bedding, fabric toys, and even clothing. If your dog had diarrhea on a dog bed or a couch cushion, the same spray handles it. That versatility is the main reason it has stayed near the top of the pet stain remover category for over two decades.
The most common complaint in reviews is the spray nozzle leaking when tilted. I noticed the same thing. To avoid waste, store the bottle upright and finish applications with the bottle vertical.
For multi-pet and multi-surface households
Simple Solution Extreme is the all-purpose choice. It handles diarrhea on carpet, vomit on the couch, urine on the dog bed, and tracked-in mess on the stairs. One bottle covers your whole house.
For set-in stains that other sprays cannot remove
The 3x enzyme concentration is what separates this from regular Simple Solution. If you have an old stain other sprays have not touched, the Extreme formula is the one to try before giving up on the carpet.
8. Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray – Best for Urine and Diarrhea Combo
Resolve Urine Destroyer Enzyme Cleaner Spray, Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution
Urine elimination technology
32 fl oz spray
Pet-safe formula
Pros
- Urine elimination technology neutralizes odor on contact
- Effective on pet stains and food messes
- Discourages pets from remarking
- Light pleasant scent fades to neutral
Cons
- Older set-in stains may need multiple applications
- A patch test recommended on delicate fabrics
Resolve Urine Destroyer is the spray I recommend to owners whose dogs have both urinary issues and occasional diarrhea. The urine elimination technology works on contact, and I noticed visible bubbling when I sprayed it on a fresh urine spot, which is a good sign that the enzymatic action is working.
On diarrhea, the performance is similar to Resolve Ultra Pet but slightly more aggressive on odor. If your older dog has incontinence plus the occasional upset stomach, this single bottle covers both problems. Reviewers consistently mention that pets stop remarking treated spots.
The 32-ounce bottle is safe for carpets, area rugs, and upholstery. The light scent fades to neutral within an hour, which makes it a good choice for households that do not want a lingering fragrance. It is also safe around cats and dogs when used as directed.
On very old or deep stains, you may need two or three applications. The formula is not as concentrated as Simple Solution Extreme, so patience is required for set-in messes. For fresh accidents, it works on the first pass.
For senior dogs with multiple accident types
If your dog has both urinary incontinence and occasional stomach issues, Resolve Urine Destroyer handles both without needing two separate bottles. The dual-action formula is the practical choice for senior dog care.
For owners who want one bottle for many messes
This is the multi-purpose spray for households that want a single product for urine, feces, vomit, food spills, and dirt. The 32-ounce size keeps it affordable per use.
How to Clean Dog Diarrhea from Carpet: A 7-Step Protocol
The right carpet cleaner matters, but the cleaning protocol matters more. After testing these products across multiple messes, our team settled on the same 7-step process that experienced pet owners in r/dogs and r/CleaningTips recommend. This protocol works whether you have a machine or just a spray bottle.
Step 1: Scoop and blot the solids immediately. Use paper towels or disposable gloves. Do not rub. Press down and lift. Blotting prevents pushing the mess deeper into the carpet pad. Work from the outside of the stain toward the center so you do not spread it.
Step 2: Apply an enzymatic spray like Rocco & Roxie or Simple Solution Extreme directly to the area. Saturate the carpet so the enzymes can reach the pad. Walk away for 15 to 30 minutes. The dwell time is where the chemistry happens.
Step 3: Blot the area with clean white cloths or paper towels. You will see color transfer, which is the enzymes lifting the organic residue. Repeat the spray and blot cycle once if the stain is fresh, twice if it has set.
Step 4: Run a hot-water extraction machine like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet over the spot. Use hot tap water and a pet-safe formula like Bissell 74R7 in the clean tank. Two to three slow passes is the right amount. Too few passes and you leave residue. Too many and you over-wet the pad.
Step 5: Place a dry towel over the spot and weigh it down with something heavy. Press firmly for 30 seconds to absorb as much moisture as possible. This step shortens dry time and prevents wicking, which is when the stain reappears as the carpet dries.
Step 6: Speed up drying with a fan or open windows. Carpet that stays wet for more than 6 hours can develop mildew or backing damage. Quick-dry mode on machines like the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam exists for this reason.
Step 7: After 24 hours, sniff the spot. If any odor remains, the pad is still holding residue. Repeat steps 2 through 5 once more. If the smell persists after two full cycles, the pad may be saturated and you should call a professional carpet cleaner for hot-water extraction at high pressure.
What to Look for in a Carpet Cleaner for Dog Diarrhea
Choosing the right carpet cleaner for dog diarrhea is different from choosing a regular carpet cleaner. The product needs to handle organic residue, penetrate the carpet pad, and remove odor completely. Here are the six factors that matter most.
Enzymatic action
Enzymatic cleaners use live bacteria that digest the proteins and organic compounds in stool. They are the only cleaners that actually remove odor instead of masking it. Look for the words “enzymatic” or “bio-enzymatic” on the label. Bleach and ammonia-based products do not break down organic residue and can set the stain.
Hot-water extraction
A carpet cleaning machine that injects hot water into the carpet and vacuums it back out is the only way to pull diarrhea out of the pad. Surface sprays cannot reach that deep. Hot water also activates the enzymes faster than cold water.
Tank capacity and quick-dry mode
Larger tanks mean fewer refills during a big mess, but they also mean a heavier machine. Quick-dry mode reduces the amount of moisture left behind, which prevents wicking and mildew. For pet owners, quick-dry is more important than tank size.
Pet and kid safety
Any cleaner you use on carpet needs to be safe for pets and kids once dry. Look for CRI Certification, biodegradable formulas, and warnings about fragrance. Strong fragrances can bother sensitive pets just as much as sensitive humans.
Machine versus spray decision rule
Use an enzymatic spray if the mess is fresh, smaller than a dinner plate, and has not soaked the carpet pad. Use a hot-water extraction machine if the mess is larger than a dinner plate, has soaked through to the pad, or has set for more than an hour. The decision rule that experienced pet owners use: if you can feel wetness under the carpet with your fingers, you need a machine.
DIY backup solution
If you do not have any commercial cleaner on hand, mix 2 cups of warm water, 1 tablespoon of clear dish soap like Dawn, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. Apply to the stain, blot, then rinse with clean water. This DIY mix handles fresh diarrhea well but is not as effective on set-in stains or pad-soaked messes as an enzymatic spray.
Preventing Repeat Accidents After the Cleanup
The most common complaint in pet forums is the dog returning to the same spot. That happens because residual odor in the carpet pad acts as a scent marker. Even if the surface looks clean, your dog can still smell the mess below. Complete odor elimination is the only prevention.
Use an enzymatic spray and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. The longer the dwell time, the deeper the enzymes penetrate. After machine extraction, sniff the area 24 hours later. If you smell anything, repeat the cycle. Once the odor is truly gone, the dog has no reason to re-soil.
For dogs that repeatedly have stomach issues, schedule a vet visit. Chronic diarrhea can signal food allergies, parasites, or stress. Behavioral training and enzyme-based lawn attractants are also worth considering if your dog tends to use the same indoor spot.
Cover the cleaned area with a piece of furniture or a rug for a few days. That physical barrier reinforces the message that the spot is not a bathroom. Some owners also use a deterrent spray on the area after enzymatic cleaning. If the recurring accidents continue, see a veterinarian before the cleaning products run out.
For more general advice on pet stain removal, see our guide to the best carpet cleaners for pet stains and our breakdown of the best enzyme cleaners for dog accidents. If you are also dealing with urine accidents, our best carpet cleaners for pet urine guide covers that specific mess. For cat owners, the best carpet cleaners for cat hair guide addresses hair and dander along with stain removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best carpet cleaner to use when a dog has diarrhea?
The best carpet cleaner for dog diarrhea is an enzymatic formula like Rocco u0026amp; Roxie or Simple Solution Extreme paired with a hot-water extraction machine like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet. The enzyme breaks down organic residue and bacteria that cause lingering odor, while the machine extracts it from deep in the carpet fibers and pad.
Will a carpet cleaner get rid of dog poop?
A carpet cleaner with enzymatic action and hot-water extraction will remove dog diarrhea from carpet completely, including from the pad underneath. Surface sprays alone cannot reach the pad, which is why odor often returns days later. Pair the spray with a machine extraction for the most reliable result.
Will Dawn dish soap get dog poop out of carpet?
Dawn dish soap mixed with warm water and white vinegar can lift fresh diarrhea stains from carpet. It is a useful DIY backup when no commercial cleaner is available. For set-in stains or pad-soaked messes, an enzymatic cleaner works better because it breaks down the organic compounds that cause odor.
How do professionals clean dog poop from carpet?
Professional carpet cleaners use truck-mounted or commercial hot-water extraction equipment that injects water at higher pressure and temperature than consumer machines. They also apply industrial-strength enzymatic solutions and may lift the carpet to treat the pad directly. For severe pad saturation, this is the only reliable option.
How can I prevent my dog from returning to the same spot after a diarrhea accident?
Use an enzymatic cleaner and let it soak for at least 30 minutes to fully break down odor molecules in the carpet pad. After 24 hours, sniff the spot. If you smell anything, repeat the cleaning. Cover the area with furniture for a few days and consider a vet check if accidents continue, since chronic diarrhea can signal an underlying health issue.
Final Verdict
For the best carpet cleaners for dog diarrhea in 2026, our top recommendation is the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet paired with Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Cleaner. The Little Green Max Pet pulls liquid out of the carpet pad with 30% stronger suction than competitors, and the enzyme spray breaks down the organic residue that causes repeat accidents. Together they handle fresh messes in one pass and set-in messes in two.
If you do not want to buy a machine, start with Rocco & Roxie and rent a wet vac for the deepest messes. If you are on a tight budget, Resolve Ultra Pet handles fresh stains well at a low cost. Whatever you choose, follow the 7-step protocol above and check the spot 24 hours later. The only thing worse than cleaning up dog diarrhea once is cleaning up the same spot twice.