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10 Best Blacklights for Finding Cat Urine Stains – 2023 Reviews & Top Picks

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

ultra violet light illuminates many stains from pet urine on a carpet in home

Coming home to the smell of cat urine is no fun, especially when you have no idea where it is. Let’s face it—cat urine is potent. Luckily, we live in a world where just about anything’s possible, including finding cat urine stains with special gadgets.

UV LED Black Lights make finding cat urine possible, and it’s a must-have if you own a cat. Thanks to UV LED blacklights, you can find the stain and take care of the odor. But how do you go about finding the right one?

Below, we have examined the top 10 reviews of the best blacklights out there for detecting cat urine. Sit back, relax, and read all about it. We hope that in doing so, you’ll find the right UV LED blacklight that will suit your needs and get rid of those hard-to-find stains!

A Quick Glance at Our Favorites in 2023

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Alonefire X901UV 10W 365nm UV Flashlight Alonefire X901UV 10W 365nm UV Flashlight
  • Rechargeable battery
  • 365nm for excellence detection
  • Comes with UV protection glasses
  • Best Value
    Second place
    KOBRA UV Black Light Flashlight 100 LED KOBRA UV Black Light Flashlight 100 LED
  • Bright light
  • Covers wide areas
  • Reasonably priced
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    TATTU U2S UV Flashlight Rechargeable 365nm Black Light Torch TATTU U2S UV Flashlight Rechargeable 365nm Black Light Torch
  • Multi-functional
  • Small and compact
  • 365nm wavelength
  • UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 128 LED UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 128 LED
  • Non-slip grip
  • Wide coverage
  • 70% brighter than its competitors
  • OLIGHT I5UV EOS UV Flashlight, 365nm Keyring Light Ultraviolet OLIGHT I5UV EOS UV Flashlight, 365nm Keyring Light Ultraviolet
  • Cool design
  • 365nm, ideal for spotting cat urine
  • Can clip to pocket for easy accessibility
  • The 10 Best Black Lights for Finding Cat Urine Stains

    1. Alonefire X901UV Light Pet Urine Detector – Best Overall

    akalone blacklight

    Wave Length: 365nm
    Material: Aluminum Alloy
    Batteries Included: Yes

    The Alonefire X901UV 10W 365nm UV Flashlight USB Rechargeable Ultraviolet Black Light Money Detector Pet Urine Detector makes our list for the best overall black light for finding cat urine stains. The 365nm wavelength is perfect for this very purpose, and it’s rechargeable. It comes with a lithium rechargeable battery, UV protective glasses, and a USB cable. This flashlight is portable and easy to use. The red and green light indicator shows if it’s charging or ready to go.

    While this product has a nice rechargeable feature, some consumers state it takes a long time to recharge. It’s best to charge overnight, as it may take anywhere from 5 to 12 hours. This product is a little more expensive than other UV lights out there, but with the rechargeable battery, that saves money right off the bat.

    Pros
    • 365nm for excellence detection
    • Rechargeable battery
    • Comes with UV protection glasses
    Cons
    • Battery takes a long time to charge
    • More expensive than other UV lights

    2. KOBRA UV Black Light Flashlight 100 LED – Best Value

    KOBRA UV Black Light Flashlight 100 LED

    Wave Length: 385nm–395nm
    Material: Aluminum
    Batteries Included: No

    The KOBRA UV Black Light Flashlight 100 LED covers wide areas for easy urine detection. The light is nice and bright, and it’s sturdy. This product comes with a 1-year warranty on parts and labor, and it’s reasonably priced. It detects pet urine, counterfeit money, leaks, and scorpions. The bulb life lasts 100,000 hours, and it’s water and shockproof.  The wavelength is not 365nm, but it’s still in the proper range for detecting cat urine.

    We should point out that some consumers claim the LED lights stopped working after two months, and some state the light is not that bright. However, many consumers are happy with their purchase, and it helps them spot urine stains. It does require 6 AA batteries, and you cannot use rechargeable batteries.

    With the reasonable price, the durability, and the effectiveness of spotting urine, we feel this product is the best blacklight for finding cat urine for the money.

    Pros
    • Comes with a 1-year warranty
    • Reasonably priced
    • Bright light
    • Covers wide areas
    Cons
    • Requires 6 AA batteries
    • Lights may stop working after 2 months

    3. TATTU U2S UV Flashlight Rechargeable 365nm Black Light Torch with ZWB2 Filter, Black Light 10W Ultraviolet LED Lamp with Micro USB Charging Cable – Premium Choice

    TATTU U2S UV Flashlight Rechargeable 365nm Black Light Torch with ZWB2 Filter, Black Light 10W Ultraviolet LED Lamp with Micro USB Charging Cable

    Wave Length: 365nm
    Material: Metal
    Batteries Included: Yes

    This light serves multiple functions. With the recommended 365nm, it’s perfect for spotting wet or dried cat urine stains. It comes with a rechargeable battery, USB cable, manual, and wrist strap. The metal construction is heavy-duty, and it’s easy to use. This product also will dry nails and detect fluids in the home or a hotel room. You can even use it to ensure your hands are clean after washing them; the light will point it out if you miss some places. It’s small, compact, and powerful. The location of the on/off switch is ideal for ease of use.

    It does have a 3-mode function of high, low, and strobe with SOS capabilities. Some complain that it’s frustrating having to cycle through the modes to get to the one you want, and some say it may even be a little too bright.

    Pros
    • 365nm wavelength
    • Comes with a rechargeable battery
    • Multi-functional
    • Small and compact
    • Easy to turn on/off
    Cons
    • Have to cycle through the 3 mode function
    • May be too bright

    4. UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 128 LED Pet Dog Cat Urine Detector Light Flashlight for Pet Urine Stains, UV Blacklight Flashlight for Bed Bugs, Scorpions Hunting

    UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 128 LED Pet Dog Cat Urine Detector Light Flashlight for Pet Urine Stains, UV Blacklight Flashlight for Bed Bugs, Scorpions Hunting

    Wave Length: 385nm–395nm
    Material: Aluminum
    Batteries Included: No

    The UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 128 LED Pet Dog Cat Urine Detector is 70% brighter than other UV flashlights, making it a terrific choice to spot cat urine. It also detects dog urine, and the 128 LED covers a wide area. It also serves as a scorpion and bed bug detector and detects leaks and other contaminants. This flashlight also comes with 51 or 100 LED, but keep in mind that the 128 LED will have the broadest coverage.  The aluminum construction is sturdy with a non-slip grip and also has a wrist strap.

    It requires 6 AA batteries that are not included, and it does not come with UV protection glasses like its competitors. While the wavelength is between 365nm and 395nm, some claim that it does not show cat urine. However, many people have stated it showed urine stains very well.

    This flashlight comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you do run into any problems, the manufacturer will give you a full refund. The manufacturer also offers a 1-year money-back guarantee.

    Pros
    • 70% brighter than its competitors
    • Non-slip grip
    • Wide coverage
    Cons
    • Requires 6 AA batteries, not included
    • No UV protection glasses

    5. OLIGHT I5UV EOS UV Flashlight, 365nm Keyring Light Ultraviolet Handy Detector Light Available for Pet Stains, Hunting Scorpions

    OLIGHT I5UV EOS UV Flashlight, 365nm Keyring Light Ultraviolet Handy Detector Light Available for Pet Stains, Hunting Scorpions

    Wave Length: 365nm
    Material: Aluminum
    Batteries Included: Yes

    The OLIGHT I5UV EOS UV Flashlight, 365nm Keyring Light Ultraviolet Handy Detector Light offers a unique design that separates it from the traditional black flashlight. The splash-dyed magenta dots stand out, making the flashlight easy to find when you need it. It only takes one AA battery, which is included. The one-button operation is simple yet effective, and the 365nm makes it ideal for spotting cat urine. It’s also great for detecting scorpions, contaminants, and counterfeit money. The two-way clip makes it easy to attach to any pocket, and it’s waterproof.

    Some claim the light may not illuminate very brightly and that it can overheat after short-term use. Most consumers state the light is very bright, works well, and is small and durable. Overall, this product is easy to use and has a cool design.

    Pros
    • Battery included
    • 365nm, ideal for spotting cat urine
    • Can clip to pocket for easy accessibility
    • Cool design
    Cons
    • Light may not be bright
    • May overheat after short-term usage

    6. UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 100 LED Pet Dog Cat Urine Detector Flashlight for Pet Urine Stains, Professional Black Light Flashlight with UV Sunglasses for Scorpions Hunting

    UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 100 LED Pet Dog Cat Urine Detector Flashlight for Pet Urine Stains, Professional Black Light Flashlight with UV Sunglasses for Scorpions Hunting

    Wave Length: 385nm–395nm
    Material: Aluminum
    Batteries Included: No

    UV adjustable protection glasses come with the UV Black Light Flashlight, Super Bright 100 LED Pet Dog Cat Urine Detector Flashlight. You’ll want to use the glasses when using the flashlight to show stains easier and more clearly. With a lighting time of up to 100,000 hours, the cat urine detector displays a large area for easy spotting. It detects both wet and dry stains and is waterproof. It’s made of commercial aerospace-grade aluminum and fitted with quality-verified UV LED. It also works to detect scorpions, leaks, official identification cards, passports, etc.

    The handle may get hot with prolonged use at a single time, and some consumers are disappointed that it doesn’t detect dog or cat urine. It requires 6 AA batteries, which are not included. Most people have success with this product—some have even pulled up their carpets and replaced them with hard floors because of the great detection of this UV flashlight. It also comes with a 1-year money-back guarantee.

    Pros
    • Comes with adjustable UV protection glasses
    • Detects both wet and dry urine stains
    • Multi-purpose flashlight
    • 1-year money-back guarantee
    Cons
    • Batteries not included
    • Handle may get hot after prolonged use

    7. LIGHTFE UV Flashlight 365nm UV Blacklight UV302D with LG UV LED Source, Black Filter Lens, Max.3000mW high power for UV Glue Curing, Rocks and Mineral Glowing, Pet Urine Detector, AC Leak Detector

    LIGHTFE UV Flashlight 365nm UV Blacklight UV302D with LG UV LED Source, Black Filter Lens, Max.3000mW high power for UV Glue Curing, Rocks and Mineral Glowing, Pet Urine Detector, AC Leak Detector

    Wave Length: 365nm
    Material: Aerospace aluminum alloy
    Batteries Included: Yes

    A 18650 rechargeable Samsung lithium-ion battery powers the LIGHTFE UV Flashlight 365nm, which is included. The manufacturer guarantees an 18-month quality warranty with a 30-day return policy. Unlike most of its competitors, it comes with a black filter optical lens that removes stray light to produce a clearer image. It serves multiple purposes, such as detecting scorpions, leaks, gasoline, body fluids, and other soils. It provides a long beam distance and can be used for forensic science and fluorescence.

    This UV blacklight shows cat and dog urine very well; however, some consumers claim the battery life is very short, becoming dead after about 8 minutes of usage, and some have to bang it against their hand to get it to work. Also, some state the light isn’t bright enough.

    Pros
    • Rechargeable battery included
    • Comes with a black filter optical lens
    • Provides a long beam distance
    Cons
    • Sucks battery power
    • May have battery issues
    • Light might not be bright enough

    8. McDOER Blacklight Flashlight Ver 2 UV 109 LED with Ultraviolet Ink Marker for Urine Detection, Finding Scorpions, and Dog & Cat Pee – 18 Watt, 385-395nm

    McDOER Blacklight Flashlight Ver 2 UV 109 LED with Ultraviolet Ink Marker for Urine Detection, Finding Scorpions, and Dog & Cat Pee - 18 Watt, 385-395nm

    Wave Length: 385nm–395nm
    Material: Aluminum
    Batteries Included: No

    The McDOER Blacklight Flashlight Ver 2 UV 109 LED with Ultraviolet Ink Marker for Urine Detection, Finding Scorpions, and Dog & Cat Pee has a wavelength between 385nm and 395nm. It’s easy to use with its single-button operation, and the LED lights should last over 100,000 hours. A fun little bonus with this product is the added UV marker. If you have kids, they’ll have fun with this little tool, as they can use it for games.

    This blacklight detects cat and dog urine, as well as scorpions and other critters or bugs. It has 109 UV LED individual lights, and it’s durable enough to handle a shock resistance of up to 3 feet.  A downfall is the required 6 AA batteries are not included. Some claim that this flashlight goes through batteries quickly, and the on/off button may stick. It may not detect urine if the stain is fresh.

    Pros
    • Comes with a UV marker
    • Over 100,000 hours life expectancy
    • Single-button operation
    Cons
    • Takes 6 batteries to work, not included
    • May drain batteries quickly
    • On/Off button may stick
    • May not detect fresh urine

    9. UV 365nm light wood’s lamp DARKBEAM Blacklight Ultraviolet Flashlight LED Portable Mini Handheld Torch Detector for Dog Urine Pet Stains 370nm Anti-counterfeiting Identification, Resin Curing

    UV 365nm light wood's lamp DARKBEAM Blacklight Ultraviolet Flashlight LED Portable Mini Handheld Torch Detector for Dog Urine Pet Stains 370nm Anti-counterfeiting Identification, Resin Curing

    Wave Length: 365nm
    Material: Aluminum
    Batteries Included: No

    The UV 365nm Light Wood’s Lamp DARKBEAM Black Light Ultraviolet Flashlight LED Portable Mini Handheld Torch Detector for Dog Urine Pet Stains has a zoom in/out feature to adjust the appropriate light range, unlike its competitors. It’s small and easy to carry anywhere you need it, and it has a clip so you can attach it to your pocket. It takes only 1 AA battery, and the mesh texture design is durable and makes it easy to grip. The 365nm is the perfect wavelength to detect cat urine, and it detects other critters and bugs, too.

    Consumers claim the light is too dim for use outside, so you probably don’t want to use it for camping. Some also have difficulty seeing urine stains with this light, but it works better if the room is entirely dark.

    Pros
    • Has zoom in/out feature to adjust the light range
    • Requires only 1 AA battery
    Cons
    • Light may be too dim for outside use
    • May not detect cat urine

    10. uvBeast NEW V3 365nm MINI – Black Light UV Flashlight – HIGH DEFINITION Ultraviolet – Rechargeable 18650 USB-C Quick charge Port – Professional Grade HIGH POWER UPGRADED LED – USA Stock

    uvBeast NEW V3 365nm MINI - Black Light UV Flashlight – HIGH DEFINITION Ultraviolet - Rechargeable 18650 USB-C Quick charge Port - Professional Grade HIGH POWER UPGRADED LED – USA Stock

    Wave Length: 365nm
    Material: Aerospace-grade aluminum
    Batteries Included: Yes

    The uvBeast NEW V3 365nm MINI – Black Light UV Flashlight comes with an 18650 rechargeable battery, a USB-C cable, and a US adapter. You don’t need to take the battery out to charge, and the charge time is quick. It’s small and compact yet powerful for cat urine detection. uvBeast is known for its flood UV lights, but you get the same powerful UV light in a small and compact design with the mini. This design has minimal visible light leak, making it powerful enough for daytime usage in normal light. In the dark, you get 20 to 30 feet of coverage.

    The light may go off when moved around or flicker, and some have problems charging it, stating it won’t charge.

    Pros
    • Small and compact
    • Comes with a rechargeable battery and USB-C cable
    • Light shows up to 20 to 30 feet of coverage
    Cons
    • Light may shut off on its own
    • Light may flicker
    • May not charge with provided USB-C cable

    Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Right Black Light for Finding Cat Urine

    When operating a UV blacklight, it’s important not to shine into your eyes or your pet’s eyes. Prolonged exposure could affect your vision over time, so it’s a good precaution to only use these lights when needed.

    While you’re looking for a blacklight to find cat urine, here are a few things to consider.

    The UV light black light flashlight glows in the dark
    Image Credit: Pavelis,Shutterstock

    Wavelength

    UV lights differ in wavelength, usually 10nm to 400nm. Nm stands for nanometer, which is one-billionth of a meter. The recommended wavelength of the blacklight needs to be between 365nm and 385nm because it’s the best for finding cat urine. We do not recommend lights with 395nm or 400nm because they are too close to visible light, which will not detect cat urine. Most blacklights will tell what wavelength they are.

    Size

    Blacklights come in different sizes, with some being very small and compact. As long as the wavelength is in the recommended range, the size shouldn’t matter.

    Protection Glasses

    Some blacklights come with protection glasses. These help in spotting the stains, as well as protecting your eyes. If you find a light that doesn’t come with glasses, you can purchase them separately.

    Number of LED Lights

    The number of lights makes a difference in finding cat urine. The blacklight should have at least 9 to 12 bulbs, but some have 50 to 100 bulbs. The more bulbs, the better.


    How To Use Blacklights Effectively

    When checking for cat urine, the room will need to be as dark as possible for effectiveness. Nighttime is the best, and make sure no visible light is shining in, such as a streetlight or porch light. Close your blinds or curtains too.

    Conclusion

    For the best overall black light for finding cat urine, the Alonefire X901UV 10W 365nm UV Flashlight is rechargeable, comes with a USB cable, protective glasses, and is in the 365nm wavelength. For the best value, the KOBRA UV Black Light Flashlight 100 LED covers wide areas, comes with a 1-year warranty, and has a life expectancy of 100,000 hours.

    Hopefully, you’ll find a blacklight that suits your needs so you can clean up that old cat urine stain and breathe more fresh air!


    Featured Image Credit: Steve Heap, Shutterstock

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