How can you eliminate the smell of dead rats? - briefly
Remove the dead rodent, clean the site with an enzymatic cleaner, treat residual odor with activated charcoal, ozone or a commercial odor neutralizer, and ensure thorough ventilation.
How can you eliminate the smell of dead rats? - in detail
Dead rodent odor is caused by decomposing tissue and bacterial by‑products. Eliminate it by following a systematic approach.
First, locate and remove the carcass. Wear disposable gloves and a mask, place the body in a sealed plastic bag, and discard it according to local waste regulations. Clean the surrounding area with hot, soapy water to remove residual fluids.
Next, disinfect the surface. Apply a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water, allow it to sit for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For non‑porous materials, a commercial disinfectant containing quaternary ammonium compounds works equally well.
After disinfection, treat the odor directly:
- Sprinkle baking soda over carpets, upholstery, and hard floors; leave for several hours before vacuuming.
- Place activated charcoal bags in the room; replace them every few days until the smell disappears.
- Use an enzymatic cleaner designed for organic stains; follow the manufacturer’s contact time.
- Run a portable ozone generator for 30–45 minutes in a sealed space; ventilate thoroughly before re‑entering.
Improve air circulation. Open windows, operate exhaust fans, and run an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter and activated‑carbon cartridge.
If the smell persists after these measures, consider professional remediation. Specialists have access to stronger oxidizing agents and industrial‑grade dehumidifiers that accelerate decomposition and odor removal.
Prevent future incidents by sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and regularly inspecting storage areas for signs of rodent activity.