How Do I Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress? Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching for “How Do i Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an old lingering odor. This guide explains why urine smells stick around, how to remove them, and what to do if the smell keeps coming back.

Why Does Pee Smell Stay in a Mattress?

Mattresses are thick and porous. When urine soaks in, it can:

  • Penetrate deep into foam and padding
  • Dry slowly, leaving behind salts and odor-causing compounds
  • Reactivate with humidity, so the smell can return when the air is damp or you sweat at night

Understanding this helps explain why simply spraying a fresh scent on top rarely solves the problem.

How Do I Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress Quickly?

If the accident is recent, acting fast makes a big difference.

Step-by-step: Fresh Urine Odor Removal

  1. Blot, don’t rub

    • Use paper towels or a clean cloth to press and absorb as much liquid as possible.
    • Rubbing can push pee deeper into the mattress.

  2. Apply a gentle cleaning solution
    A commonly used homemade option is:

    • Cool water
    • A small amount of mild liquid soap
      Lightly dampen (don’t soak) the area and blot again.

  3. Use baking soda to target odor

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp spot.
    • Gently press it in with your hand.
    • Baking soda is often used to absorb odors from fabrics and soft materials.

  4. Let it sit for several hours

    • Ideally, leave it on for 8–10 hours or overnight.
    • Keep pets and kids away while it works.

  5. Vacuum thoroughly

    • Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove all the baking soda.
    • Repeat if any odor remains, focusing on light re-dampening and re-applying baking soda rather than soaking the mattress.

What About Dried or Old Pee Smells?

Older stains are more stubborn, but you can still improve them.

Deep Cleaning for Set-In Odors

  1. Lightly rehydrate the area

    • Mist the stained area with a small amount of cool water.
    • This can help loosen dried urine deposits.

  2. Use an odor-focused cleaner
    Many people use enzyme-based cleaners made for fabric and soft surfaces, which are designed to break down organic residues.

    • Test on a small, hidden area first.
    • Apply according to the directions on the label.
    • Avoid oversaturating the mattress.

  3. Allow long drying time

    • Let the mattress air dry completely in a well-ventilated space.
    • If possible, position it near a fan or open window.

  4. Finish with baking soda and vacuuming

    • Once fully dry, add a layer of baking soda, let it sit several hours, then vacuum.
    • This can help reduce any remaining smell.

Can I Use Vinegar or Strong Cleaners on My Mattress?

Many people consider vinegar or harsh cleaners for tough odors, but there are trade-offs:

  • Vinegar can help with smells but may leave its own strong scent.
  • Bleach or harsh chemicals may damage mattress materials, discolor fabrics, or leave residues that are uncomfortable to sleep on.

If you use any cleaner, keep it mild, use small amounts, and avoid soaking the mattress. Always check your mattress care instructions first.

How Long Does It Take for the Smell to Go Away?

The timeline for “How Do i Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress” depends on:

  • How much urine was absorbed
  • How quickly you treated the area
  • How well the mattress can dry

For light, fresh accidents, odor may fade significantly after one thorough cleaning and full drying cycle. For older or larger stains, you may need to repeat the process several times.

How Can I Tell If the Mattress Is Fully Clean?

You may notice the smell is strongest when:

  • You first lie down
  • The room is warm or humid
  • Bedding is freshly removed for washing

If you still catch a noticeable urine scent under those conditions after cleaning, there may still be residues inside the mattress. Repeating the cleaning steps or focusing on more drying time and odor-absorbing powder can help.

How Do I Prevent Pee Smell in a Mattress in the Future?

Prevention is much easier than deep cleaning.

Simple prevention tips:

  • Use a water-resistant or waterproof mattress protector to form a barrier
  • Wash bedding and protectors promptly after accidents
  • Blot and treat spills as soon as they happen
  • Allow the mattress to air out regularly by pulling back bedding during the day

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How Do i Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately; avoid rubbing or soaking.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Mild soap and water, followed by baking soda, are commonly used home methods.
  • Let it dry completely: Deep drying is essential; trapped moisture can keep odors alive.
  • Old stains need more effort: Lightly rehydrate, use an odor-focused cleaner, then finish with baking soda and vacuuming.
  • Go easy on harsh products: Strong chemicals can damage mattress materials and leave their own smells.
  • Protect for the future: A mattress protector and quick cleanup of accidents greatly reduce long-term odors.

With patience and careful cleaning, many mattresses can be noticeably fresher again, even after a pee accident.