How to Clean Up Vomit Without Losing Your Cool

Katherine Pope
May 28
2 min read

From Sick Days to Pet Accidents – Handle the Mess Like a Pro

We’ve all had that moment. Maybe your child woke up sick in the middle of the night. Maybe your dog got into something it shouldn’t have. Or maybe your stomach-turning discovery happened just as you were walking out the door.No matter when it strikes, vomit cleanup is never fun—but it can be fast, effective, and way less gross with the right approach.

At K&B Cleaning Services, we’ve tackled our fair share of tough messes. Here’s our no-fuss guide to getting your floors (and your sanity) back in shape.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Up Vomit the Right Way

First, gather your supplies:

Disposable gloves
Paper towels or old rags
A plastic scraper or dustpan (optional, but helpful)
Disinfectant spray
Baking soda or cornstarch
Vacuum or broom/dustpan
Trash bags
Optional: essential oils or air freshener

1. Suit Up and Stay Calm

Put on gloves and take a deep breath (literally, if you’re using essential oils—peppermint helps!). The faster you respond, the easier the cleanup.

2. Remove the Bulk

Use paper towels, rags, or a scraper to carefully lift as much of the vomit as possible. Dispose of it immediately in a sealed trash bag.

3. Blot—Don’t Rub

Use fresh paper towels or a damp cloth to blot any remaining moisture. Avoid rubbing, which can push the mess deeper into carpet fibers or upholstery.

4. Disinfect Thoroughly

Spray the area generously with disinfectant. Let it sit for at least 5–10 minutes (check your product’s label for exact timing). This helps kill germs and neutralize odors.

5. Deodorize Naturally

Once the disinfectant has done its job, sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda over the area. Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes to absorb lingering smells and moisture.

6. Vacuum and Refresh

Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly. For extra freshness, spray a light mist of fabric-safe air freshener or open windows to air out the room.

What If You Can’t Clean It Right Away?

We get it—life doesn’t always stop for a mess. If you need to delay cleanup, follow this quick triage method:

Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the area to absorb liquid and reduce odor.
Cover with a towel or rag to contain the mess.
When ready, scoop up the mess and follow the full steps above.

Tip: If the mess is on carpet or upholstery, avoid letting it sit too long—deep staining and bacteria buildup can set in quickly.

Bonus Tips from the Pros

For upholstery or mattresses: Use an enzymatic cleaner made for organic stains (often found in pet supply stores).
For hardwood or tile: Avoid soaking the surface. Use a damp cloth followed by a dry one to prevent water damage.
Toss or wash: Sanitize rags or throw them out. Don’t reuse them for other household cleaning.

Leave the Dirty Work to Us

If cleaning up after a sick child or pet feels overwhelming, K&B Cleaning Services is just a call away. From emergency cleanups to scheduled deep cleans, we’re here to restore peace (and cleanliness) to your space—no judgment, just results.