How To Clean a Memory Foam Mattress Of Urine: Step‑by‑Step Guide and FAQs

Accidents happen, and memory foam can feel tricky to clean. If you’re searching for “How To Clean a Memory Foam Mattress Of Urine”, this guide walks you through exactly what to do, why speed matters, and how to handle lingering smells or older stains.

Why Is Cleaning Urine From Memory Foam Different?

Memory foam is highly absorbent and acts a bit like a sponge. Urine can quickly soak below the surface, which is why:

  • Stains may spread wider than they first appear.
  • Odors can linger if the mattress isn’t dried thoroughly.
  • Harsh scrubbing or soaking can damage the foam.

Because of this, the way you clean urine from memory foam is slightly different from cleaning a traditional spring mattress or a removable cushion.

What Should I Do First When Urine Gets on a Memory Foam Mattress?

Step 1: Act quickly and blot, don’t rub

If the urine is fresh:

  1. Remove bedding immediately and set it aside to wash separately.
  2. Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels to blot the area.
  3. Press down firmly to soak up as much as possible.
  4. Avoid rubbing — this can push urine deeper into the foam.

The faster you act, the less liquid can seep into the mattress core.

How To Clean a Memory Foam Mattress Of Urine (Fresh Stains)

Here’s a simple method using common household ingredients:

Step 2: Apply a gentle cleaning solution

Use a mild solution, such as:

  • Cool water mixed with a small amount of gentle liquid soap, or
  • A mixture of white vinegar and water (often about equal parts, adjusted to your preference).

Lightly mist the stained area with a spray bottle — do not soak the mattress. Memory foam takes a long time to dry, and too much moisture can cause problems later.

Step 3: Blot again

After applying the solution:

  • Blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to lift out the urine and cleaning solution.
  • Repeat light spraying and blotting as needed until the visible stain starts to fade.

How Do I Remove Urine Odor From Memory Foam?

Once the initial stain is treated, you’ll likely want to tackle any remaining smell.

Step 4: Use baking soda for odor control

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp, cleaned area.
  2. Gently spread it out so it covers slightly beyond the stain.
  3. Leave it in place for several hours, or ideally overnight, to absorb odors and moisture.
  4. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using an upholstery attachment.

If the odor persists, you can repeat the baking soda step a second time.

Can I Clean Dried or Old Urine Stains From Memory Foam?

Yes, older stains can often be improved, though they may require more than one cleaning session.

How to treat dried stains

  1. Lightly mist the area with your chosen cleaning solution to help loosen the dried residue.
  2. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes, without soaking the mattress.
  3. Blot thoroughly with clean towels.
  4. Apply baking soda to help with lingering odor and moisture, then vacuum once dry.

Older stains may not disappear completely, but they can usually be significantly reduced in appearance and smell.

What Should I Avoid When Cleaning a Memory Foam Mattress?

To protect the integrity and comfort of the mattress, it’s helpful to avoid:

  • Soaking the mattress or using large amounts of water.
  • Harsh chemicals or bleach, which can damage foam and discolor fabrics.
  • Scrubbing aggressively, which can tear or weaken the foam.
  • Putting the mattress back on the bed while still damp inside.

For drying, keep the mattress in a well-ventilated room. A fan can help speed up surface drying. Direct high heat is generally not recommended.

How Can I Tell If My Mattress Is Fully Dry?

Memory foam can feel dry on top while still holding moisture underneath. Before making the bed again:

  • Check that the surface and surrounding area are completely dry to the touch.
  • If possible, lift or tilt the mattress slightly to allow air circulation around the cleaned spot.
  • Give it extra time if you cleaned a deep or large area — patience here can help prevent musty odors later.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Clean a Memory Foam Mattress Of Urine

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to limit how far it soaks in.
  • Blot, don’t scrub: Press with towels to lift liquid; avoid pushing it deeper into the foam.
  • Use light moisture: Gently mist with a mild soap-and-water or vinegar-and-water solution, rather than soaking the mattress.
  • Tackle odor with baking soda: Let it sit for hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Old stains need repetition: Dried urine can often be improved with multiple gentle clean-and-blot cycles.
  • Protect the foam: Skip harsh chemicals, heavy scrubbing, and excessive water.
  • Allow full drying time: Make sure the mattress is completely dry before putting bedding back on.

Handled calmly and step by step, knowing how to clean a memory foam mattress of urine can help you restore comfort and freshness without damaging your mattress.