How To Clean a Pee Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work

If you’re searching for “How To Clean a Pee Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering urine stain and smell. The good news: with the right steps and common household products, you can usually clean the mattress effectively and reduce odors.

This FAQ-style guide explains how to clean a pee mattress, what to avoid, and how to protect your bed in the future.

What should I do first when there’s pee on my mattress?

Act quickly. Fresh urine is much easier to remove than a dried stain.

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove all sheets, mattress protectors, and blankets and wash them according to their care labels.

  2. Blot, don’t scrub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly to absorb, but avoid rubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  3. Check how far it spread
    Gently press around the wet area to see how large the affected spot is so you know where to focus your cleaning.

How To Clean a Pee Mattress with Household Ingredients

This method works for many standard mattresses, but always check your mattress care instructions first.

Step-by-step cleaning process

  1. Mix a cleaning solution
    In a spray bottle, combine:

    • Cool water
    • A small amount of mild liquid detergent or gentle soap

  2. Lightly spray the stained area
    Dampen, but do not soak, the affected spot. Mattresses dry slowly, and too much moisture can cause other issues.

  3. Blot again
    Use a clean cloth to blot the area, lifting out urine and cleaning solution together.

  4. Apply a baking soda layer
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area. Baking soda is commonly used to help absorb moisture and odors.

  5. Let it sit
    Leave the baking soda on the mattress for several hours, or preferably overnight, to draw out remaining moisture and smell.

  6. Vacuum thoroughly
    Once the baking soda is completely dry, vacuum it up using an upholstery attachment. Go over the area several times to remove all residue.

If any odor remains, you can repeat the process.

How do I clean dried pee stains on a mattress?

Dried urine can be more stubborn. The same general process applies, but you may need:

  • A slightly stronger cleaning solution
  • More time for the baking soda to work
  • Multiple cleaning rounds

For older stains, some people use a mixture of water and a small amount of gentle vinegar before applying baking soda. Always test a tiny hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t affect the fabric or color.

How can I remove urine smell from a mattress?

Knowing how to clean a pee mattress also means dealing with lingering odor.

  • Ventilate the room: Open windows and allow fresh air to circulate.
  • Use baking soda generously: A thicker layer, left for longer, can help with smell.
  • Repeat treatments: Sometimes a second application is needed, especially for older accidents.

Avoid heavily perfumed sprays that only mask odor temporarily without addressing the source.

Can I use a steam cleaner or soak the mattress?

In most cases, soaking a mattress or using a lot of hot steam is not recommended.

  • Too much moisture can be difficult to dry fully, especially deep in the mattress.
  • Heat may cause some stains to set more firmly.
  • A damp interior may lead to long drying times and other potential problems.

Instead, focus on lightly dampening and blotting, followed by baking soda and thorough drying.

How long does it take a mattress to dry after cleaning?

Drying time depends on:

  • How much liquid was used
  • The room’s temperature and airflow
  • The mattress type and thickness

To speed up drying:

  • Place the mattress in a well-ventilated room
  • Use a fan to move air across the surface
  • Allow several hours before putting bedding back on

Make sure the mattress is completely dry to the touch before covering it again.

How can I prevent future pee stains on my mattress?

Once you’ve figured out how to clean a pee mattress, it’s worth taking steps to protect it:

  • Use a washable, water-resistant mattress protector to act as a barrier.
  • Keep extra sheets and protectors on hand for quick changes after accidents.
  • Spot check the mattress periodically to catch minor spills early.

These habits make any future cleanup much faster and easier.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Clean a Pee Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately; avoid scrubbing.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Mild soap and cool water are often enough for fresh stains.
  • Baking soda helps with odor: Sprinkle, let it sit for hours, then vacuum.
  • Avoid over-wetting: Too much liquid or steam can prolong drying and cause issues.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or dried stains may require multiple treatments.
  • Protect your mattress: A water-resistant protector can greatly reduce future cleanup.

Understanding how to clean a pee mattress—from quick response to thorough drying—can help you restore your bed more confidently and keep it fresher over time.