The active ingredient in a stain remover depends on the type of formula. Some stain removers rely on oxygen-based ingredients, solvents, or surfactants, while enzyme cleaners use enzymes as the key stain-fighting component. Oxygen-based cleaners can work well on many visible stains, but they are often less effective for pet stains and odors because they do not specifically target the organic residue that causes lingering smells. Enzymes are specialized proteins that help break down organic residue from messes like urine, feces, vomit, saliva, food spills, and odors into smaller pieces that are easier to clean away. Surfactants can also help by loosening and lifting residue from the surface.

In RUFF STUFF Bio-Enzyme Stain & Odor Eliminator by Lillian Ruff, the formula includes a bio-enzyme blend designed to target stains and odors at the source, along with cleaning ingredients such as surfactants that help remove residue. It’s made for organic, protein-based, and fat-based messes, including pet accidents, food spills, and everyday household odors. Always follow the product directions and test on a hidden area first.