How Do You Remove Pee Smell From Mattress? Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching “How Do You Remove Pee Smell From Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a long‑standing odor that just won’t go away. This guide walks through what works, what doesn’t, and how to handle both new and old pee smells in a calm, practical way.

Why Does Pee Smell Linger in a Mattress?

Mattresses are thick and porous. When urine soaks in, liquid and odor-causing compounds can seep past the surface into deeper layers. Even if the visible stain fades, the smell can remain if the inner foam or padding wasn’t cleaned and dried properly.

A few things that make the smell worse or longer lasting:

  • The pee wasn’t cleaned promptly
  • The mattress stayed damp for a long time
  • Only the surface was wiped, not deep moisture
  • Strong-smelling urine (for example, if it’s more concentrated)

Understanding this helps explain why just spraying air freshener on top rarely solves the issue.

How Do You Remove Pee Smell From Mattress Step by Step?

This method is for fresh or recent accidents and is safe for most foam and innerspring mattresses. Always check your mattress care tag first.

1. Blot, Don’t Rub

  • Use clean, dry towels or paper towels.
  • Press firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible, changing towels as they become damp.
  • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

2. Apply a Mild Cleaning Solution

A simple household solution often helps break down odor:

  • Mix equal parts cool water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
  • Lightly spray the affected area until damp but not soaked.
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then blot again with dry towels.

Vinegar has a strong smell at first, but it usually fades as it dries.

3. Use Baking Soda to Neutralize Odor

  • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
  • Gently spread it out so it covers beyond the stain’s edges.
  • Leave it on for at least several hours; many people prefer to leave it overnight.

Baking soda helps absorb both moisture and lingering smells.

4. Vacuum Thoroughly

  • Once the baking soda is completely dry, vacuum it up slowly.
  • Use a clean upholstery attachment if you have one.
  • Go over the area more than once to remove all residue.

If the smell is still noticeable, you can repeat the process once or twice.

What If the Pee Smell Has Been There for a While?

Older stains and odors are more stubborn because they’ve had time to set into deeper layers.

Can You Still Remove Old Pee Smell?

Often, you can significantly reduce the odor, even if it doesn’t disappear completely on the first try. For older smells:

  • Repeat the vinegar + baking soda process more than once.
  • Allow longer contact time for both the cleaning solution and baking soda.
  • Ensure thorough drying between each round.

If a smell persists after multiple attempts and seems strong throughout the entire mattress, some people decide the odor is too deep to fully remove.

Is It Safe to Use Strong Chemicals on a Mattress?

Should You Use Bleach or Harsh Cleaners?

Using bleach or strong chemical cleaners directly on a mattress can:

  • Damage mattress materials
  • Leave their own strong odors
  • Discolor fabrics
  • Create residue that sits close to your breathing zone

Most people prefer milder, fabric-safe cleaners or gentle homemade solutions for this reason. Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

How Do You Dry a Mattress Properly After Cleaning?

Drying is a big part of how you remove pee smell from mattress successfully. A mattress that stays slightly damp can develop musty or sour smells.

Useful drying tips:

  • Increase airflow: open windows, run a fan, or use a circulating fan near the mattress.
  • Use sunlight when possible: indirect sunlight can help freshen and speed drying.
  • Avoid putting sheets or mattress protectors back on until the area feels completely dry to the touch.

Drying times vary by mattress thickness, room temperature, and airflow.

How Can You Prevent Pee Smell in a Mattress Next Time?

While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can limit long-lasting odor.

Common protective steps include:

  • Using a waterproof mattress protector to create a barrier
  • Cleaning new accidents as quickly as possible
  • Letting the mattress dry fully before making the bed again

These simple habits can make future cleanup faster and more effective.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about “How Do You Remove Pee Smell From Mattress”:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to reduce how deep it soaks in.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A mix of water and white vinegar, followed by baking soda, is a common at-home approach.
  • Let baking soda sit: Give it several hours or overnight to absorb moisture and odor.
  • Vacuum carefully: Remove all dried baking soda so residue doesn’t stay in the fabric.
  • Repeat for old stains: Older pee smells may need multiple rounds of cleaning.
  • Dry thoroughly: Good airflow and time are essential to prevent lingering or new odors.
  • Think ahead: A protective cover and quick cleanup after accidents help keep smells from setting in.

With patience and the right steps, many people find they can noticeably reduce or remove pee smell from a mattress and keep it more comfortable for sleep.