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Yes, you can tackle small rooms yourself if you're handy and have a flat, clean subfloor to work with. But seams must be sealed properly, or the barrier will fail. Any gaps will let moisture sneak through and defeat the purpose of installing this more expensive type of carpet padding. For larger rooms or areas, professional installation is usually worth the extra cost.

To remove pet urine stains and odors from a microfiber couch, first blot the area to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then, generously cover the spot with baking soda and let it sit for a few hours to absorb the odor before vacuuming it up.

For cleaning the stain itself, you can use a commercial urine stain and odor removal spray—be sure to follow the product's instructions.

Alternatively, you can use a DIY solution based on your couch's cleaning code:

• For 'S' code couches: Lightly spritz the stain with rubbing alcohol and gently scrub with a microfiber cloth.

• For 'W' or 'S-W' code couches: Use a mixture of one cup of vinegar and one cup of rubbing alcohol, spritzing and scrubbing the area gently.

Wood furniture can become sticky for several reasons. Often, it's due to an accumulation of dirt, grime, or oils on the surface. Another common cause is using too much polish or wax, which can leave a sticky residue, especially after cleaning. If excess product is the culprit, you can remove the buildup with a cloth dampened with warm water and a little dish soap. Afterward, you can reapply a small amount of polish or wax, making sure to wipe away any excess. However, if cleaning doesn't help, the stickiness may be a sign that the furniture's finish is failing. As varnish and lacquer age, they can degrade and become tacky. In this case, the furniture will need to be refinished to resolve the issue.

Many household items neutralize the smell of urine, including fabric sprays and baking soda, a great odor absorber. Or try combining baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to cut through the smell. If these items don’t work to completely remove the smell of pet urine, try an enzymatic cleaner, which works to break down organic matter such as urine, and is readily available at most pet stores.