Oh no, dealing with cat pee on the sofa is such a frustrating experience, but don't worry, you can definitely get it clean! The key is using the right method to completely break down the urine so the smell doesn't linger.
First, if the accident just happened, act as quickly as you can. Grab some paper towels or a clean cloth and blot the area firmly to absorb as much of the urine as possible. Try not to rub, as that can push the urine deeper into the couch fibers. Just press down and soak up what you can.
The most effective solution, especially for both new and dried stains, is an enzymatic cleaner. These cleaners are specially designed with enzymes that break down the uric acid crystals in cat urine, which are the source of that stubborn smell. Regular soaps often can't do this. To use an enzymatic cleaner, you need to be generous with it. Really saturate the entire stained area, making sure the cleaner soaks as deeply as the urine did. Let it sit for a while, sometimes even for several hours or overnight, to give the enzymes time to work. Some people even cover the spot with plastic to keep it damp. After it has sat, blot the area dry with a clean cloth.
If you don't have an enzymatic cleaner on hand, you can try a homemade solution. A mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can help neutralize the odor. Spray the solution on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then blot it up. After that, you can sprinkle a good amount of baking soda over the damp spot. Let the baking soda sit for several hours or overnight until it's completely dry. It will absorb the remaining moisture and odor. Once it's dry, you can just vacuum it all up.
No matter which method you choose, it's always a good idea to test your cleaning solution on a small, hidden part of your sofa first to make sure it doesn't cause any discoloration. For really deep-set stains, you might need to repeat the process or use an upholstery cleaning machine to help extract the liquid from the cushions.
