How To Clean a Bed Mattress That Was Peed On: Simple Steps That Actually Work

If you’re searching for “How To Clean a Bed Mattress That Was Peed On,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering urine stain and smell. This guide walks you through what to do right away, how to deep clean, and how to handle tough odors in a calm, step‑by‑step way.

What Happens When Urine Gets on a Mattress?

Urine soaks into the fabric and foam layers of a mattress. If it’s not cleaned properly:

It can leave yellow stains
It may create a persistent ammonia-like odor
It can be harder to remove the longer it sits

That’s why understanding how to clean a bed mattress that was peed on quickly and correctly matters. The right method helps reduce staining, lingering smells, and the need for repeated cleaning.

How To Clean a Bed Mattress That Was Peed On (Fresh Accident)

Step 1: Act Fast and Blot, Don’t Rub

Strip all bedding and wash separately.
Use paper towels or a clean, absorbent cloth to blot the wet area.
Press down firmly to soak up as much liquid as possible.
Avoid rubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

Step 2: Apply a Mild Cleaning Solution

A simple option many people use is a mix of water and gentle soap or a water and white vinegar solution.

Lightly spray or dab the solution onto the stained area.
Do not oversaturate; too much liquid can take a long time to dry.
Gently blot again with a clean cloth to lift out more urine.

Step 3: Deodorize With Baking Soda

Baking soda is commonly used to help absorb moisture and odor.

Sprinkle a generous layer of dry baking soda over the damp area.
Gently press it into the surface of the mattress.
Leave it for several hours, or overnight if possible.

Step 4: Vacuum Thoroughly

Once completely dry:

Vacuum the baking soda using an upholstery attachment if available.
Make sure the mattress feels dry to the touch before making the bed again.

How Do You Clean Dried or Old Urine Stains?

If you’re dealing with a stain that has already dried, cleaning may take a bit more effort.

Step 1: Lightly Rehydrate the Stain

Lightly mist the stained area with water or a mild cleaning solution.
This helps loosen dried salts and residue from the urine.

Step 2: Use a Targeted Cleaning Mixture

Many people find that a water and white vinegar mix can help with older stains and odors:

Apply a light amount to the stained area.
Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Blot with a dry cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.

Step 3: Repeat Baking Soda and Vacuum

Apply baking soda generously on the treated area.
Let it sit for several hours.
Vacuum thoroughly once dry.
For stubborn stains, some people repeat this process more than once.

How Can You Reduce Urine Odor in a Mattress?

Even after the visible stain is gone, odor can linger. When thinking about how to clean a bed mattress that was peed on, addressing smell is often just as important as stain removal.

Helpful approaches:

Ensure the mattress dries completely between cleaning steps.
Use baking soda and allow it to sit for an extended period (overnight or longer).
If possible, place the mattress in a well‑ventilated area to air out.

Persistent odors may indicate that urine has penetrated deeper layers, which can be harder to clean fully at home.

Can You Use Harsh Chemicals or Steam Clean a Pee-Stained Mattress?

Many people wonder if they should reach for strong chemical cleaners or a steam cleaner.

Strong cleaners may discolor fabrics or leave their own smell.
Excess moisture from steam cleaning can soak the mattress and slow drying.
Always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

When in doubt, milder methods are often preferred for routine mattress care.

How Can You Help Prevent Future Accidents From Damaging the Mattress?

While accidents can’t always be avoided, there are simple steps to help protect your mattress:

Use a washable, waterproof mattress protector.
Add a removable, washable mattress pad on top.
Clean small spills or accidents as soon as possible.

These layers can make any future cleanup quicker and help keep stains from reaching the mattress core.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Clean a Bed Mattress That Was Peed On

Act quickly: Blot up as much urine as possible right away; avoid rubbing.
Use gentle solutions: Light applications of water with mild soap or vinegar are commonly used instead of very harsh chemicals.
Deodorize with baking soda: Baking soda can help absorb both moisture and odor when left on the area for several hours.
Vacuum once dry: Always let the mattress fully dry, then vacuum to remove baking soda and loosened residue.
Old stains need patience: Dried urine may require repeating the clean–baking soda–vacuum cycle.
Avoid oversoaking: Too much liquid or steam can push urine deeper and make drying more difficult.
Protection helps: A waterproof mattress protector and quick response to accidents can make future cleanups much easier.

With these steps, you have a clear, practical approach for how to clean a bed mattress that was peed on, from fresh spills to stubborn, dried stains, while keeping your mattress as fresh and comfortable as possible.