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

If you’re searching for how to clean dog urine out of a mattress, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident, a lingering odor, or a stubborn yellow stain. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, what to avoid, and how to protect your mattress in the future.

What Should I Do First When My Dog Pees on the Mattress?

Speed matters. The sooner you act, the easier it is to remove odor and stains.

  1. Remove bedding
    Strip sheets, covers, and any pads and set them aside to wash separately.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly to draw moisture out, but do not scrub — scrubbing can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  3. Avoid heat
    Don’t use a hair dryer, steam cleaner, or direct heat. Heat can cause urine to set further into the mattress materials and intensify odor.

How To Clean Dog Urine Out Of a Mattress: Step-by-Step

This method works for most foam and spring mattresses. Always check your mattress care tag if you have special materials.

Step 1: Blot Thoroughly

Continue blotting until the area feels only slightly damp. The less liquid left in the mattress, the more successful your cleaning will be.

Step 2: Apply a Vinegar and Water Solution

A gentle vinegar solution can help neutralize urine odor.

  • Mix equal parts white vinegar and cool water in a spray bottle or bowl.
  • Lightly saturate the affected area. The solution should reach as deep as the urine did, but avoid soaking the entire mattress.
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then blot again with clean towels.

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

Step 3: Use Baking Soda for Odor Control

Baking soda helps absorb moisture and odor.

  • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the treated area.
  • Gently spread it out to cover slightly beyond the visible stain.
  • Leave it on for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible, to let it work deep into the mattress.

Step 4: Vacuum the Mattress

Once the baking soda is completely dry:

  • Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
  • Slowly vacuum the baking soda, going over the area several times.
  • Check for lingering odor or visible discoloration. You can repeat the process if needed.

What If the Dog Urine Stain Is Old or Already Dry?

Dried urine can be more stubborn because it has already set into the fabric and foam.

  1. Rehydrate the area
    Lightly spray the stained area with plain water to dampen it. This can help loosen the dried residue.

  2. Repeat the vinegar solution step
    Apply the same vinegar and water mixture, let it sit, and blot.

  3. Use multiple baking soda treatments
    You may need to apply baking soda, let it sit overnight, and vacuum more than once to reduce lingering odors.

Older stains sometimes leave a faint yellow shadow even after cleaning. The important part is that the area is dry and odor-free.

Can I Use Regular Household Cleaners on My Mattress?

It’s best to be cautious.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals (like strong bleach solutions) directly on the mattress, as they can damage fabrics or foam.
  • Avoid overly soapy mixtures that are hard to rinse; soap residue can attract dirt and may leave the surface feeling sticky.
  • If you use a mild cleaner, use small amounts, blot thoroughly, and follow with baking soda to remove excess moisture and smell.

When in doubt, stick with vinegar, water, and baking soda, as they are widely used for this type of cleaning and are usually mattress-safe when applied carefully.

How Do I Dry the Mattress Safely After Cleaning?

Drying is just as important as cleaning. A damp mattress can develop unpleasant smells over time.

  • Open windows or use a fan to increase airflow.
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side so air can reach more surfaces.
  • Allow several hours, or until the mattress feels completely dry to the touch.
  • Do not put bedding back on until there is no trace of moisture.

How Can I Prevent Future Dog Urine Accidents From Ruining My Mattress?

While accidents can still happen, you can make cleanup much easier:

  • Use a water-resistant mattress protector to create a barrier between your dog and the mattress.
  • Keep a cleaning kit ready: towels, vinegar, baking soda, and a spray bottle.
  • Wash bedding quickly after an accident so odors do not linger in the room.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Clean Dog Urine Out Of a Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot up as much urine as possible before cleaning solutions are applied.
  • Use gentle solutions: A mix of white vinegar and water, followed by baking soda, is a common, mattress-safe method.
  • Avoid scrubbing and heat: Rubbing and high heat can set the stain and odor deeper into the mattress.
  • Let baking soda sit: Leaving it on for several hours or overnight helps absorb both moisture and smell.
  • Vacuum thoroughly: Remove all baking soda and check for any remaining dampness.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or strong stains may need more than one treatment.
  • Dry completely: A fully dry mattress is essential for long-term freshness and comfort.
  • Protect going forward: A mattress protector and quick cleanup can greatly reduce long-term damage from future accidents.

With patience and the right steps, how to clean dog urine out of a mattress becomes a manageable process, helping you keep your bed fresh, comfortable, and ready for restful sleep.