How To Clean Dog Pee Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work

If you’re searching for how to clean dog pee out of mattress, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering smell you can’t quite get rid of. This guide walks you through what to do right away, how to treat stains and odors, and what to avoid so you don’t damage your mattress.

Why Dog Pee on a Mattress Is Tricky

Dog urine can soak deep into the layers of a mattress. If it isn’t cleaned properly, it can leave:

  • Stains on the surface
  • Odors that seem to return even after cleaning
  • Discoloration or damage if harsh cleaners are used

Knowing how to clean dog pee out of mattress correctly helps protect both your mattress and your sleep environment.

What Should I Do Immediately After My Dog Pees on the Mattress?

Step 1: Blot, Don’t Rub

Use clean, dry cloths or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible.

  • Press firmly to pull moisture out of the mattress.
  • Avoid rubbing, which can push urine deeper into the foam and spread the stain.

Step 2: Apply a Mild Cleaning Solution

A common home approach is:

  • Mix equal parts cool water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
  • Lightly spray the affected area until damp, not soaked.
  • Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then blot again with clean cloths.

Vinegar helps neutralize the ammonia-like smell and breaks down some of the urine components without being too harsh on most fabrics.

How Do I Remove Odor After Cleaning the Stain?

Even when you’ve cleaned the surface, a faint smell might linger. To tackle odor:

  1. Dry the Area Thoroughly

    • Moisture left inside the mattress can trap smells.
    • Use fans or open windows to increase airflow.
    • Avoid direct high heat, which may damage some foam materials.

  2. Use Baking Soda for Deodorizing

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of dry baking soda over the cleaned, damp area.
    • Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush.
    • Leave it on for several hours, or overnight if possible.
    • Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment.

Baking soda is often used to absorb lingering odors and can help refresh the mattress surface.

How To Clean Dog Pee Out Of Mattress When the Stain Is Old?

Dried urine stains are more stubborn because they’ve had time to set in.

  1. Lightly Re-wet the Area

    • Mist the stained spot with the water–vinegar mixture.
    • The goal is to dampen, not drench, so the cleaner can reach dried residue.

  2. Let It Sit Longer

    • Allow 15–20 minutes of contact time before blotting.
    • Repeat the process if the stain or smell is still noticeable.

  3. Use Baking Soda Again

    • After blotting, apply baking soda as above and vacuum when dry.

For very old, deep stains, you may not be able to restore the mattress perfectly at home, but careful cleaning can still reduce odor and discoloration.

What Should I Avoid When Cleaning Dog Pee from a Mattress?

Some very common reactions can accidentally make things worse:

  • Avoid soaking the mattress. Too much liquid can stay trapped inside, leading to lingering smell and difficulty drying.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. These can discolor fabrics and may degrade foam or other materials.
  • Avoid strong perfumes to “cover up” odor. Fragrances mask smell temporarily but don’t remove the source.
  • Avoid steam cleaning unless your mattress care instructions explicitly allow it. Heat and excess moisture can be risky for many mattress types.

How Can I Protect My Mattress From Future Accidents?

If accidents happen regularly, it can help to:

  • Use a removable, washable mattress protector that fully covers the top and sides.
  • Wash bedding and protectors promptly after any accident.
  • Check your mattress occasionally for any missed damp spots or light odors.

These steps make any future cleanup faster and reduce the chance of stains reaching the mattress core.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about how to clean dog pee out of mattress

  • Act fast: Blot up fresh urine immediately to limit staining and odor.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A mild water–vinegar solution is commonly used to clean and neutralize.
  • Deodorize: Baking soda can help absorb leftover smells once the area is damp-cleaned.
  • Don’t oversaturate: Too much liquid can trap moisture inside the mattress.
  • Handle old stains patiently: Re-dampening and repeating the process may gradually reduce older odors and marks.
  • Protect for next time: A washable cover or protector adds a helpful barrier against future accidents.

With a calm, step-by-step approach, you can usually clean dog pee out of a mattress effectively and keep your sleeping surface fresher and more comfortable.