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

If you’re searching for “How To Clean Pee On Mattress”, you probably need a clear, fast answer right now. Whether it’s from a child, pet, or accident, urine on a mattress is common—and it can be cleaned effectively if you act quickly and use the right method.

This guide explains how to remove fresh and dried urine, tackle odors and stains, and keep your mattress in good condition.

What’s the Best Way To Clean Pee Off a Mattress?

The basic process for how to clean pee on mattress is:

  1. Blot, don’t rub the wet area.
  2. Apply a gentle cleaning solution (often vinegar and water).
  3. Use baking soda to absorb moisture and odor.
  4. Let it dry completely before making the bed again.

Step-by-step for fresh urine

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove all bedding and wash it according to its care instructions.

  2. Blot the pee
    Use paper towels or a clean cloth to soak up as much liquid as possible.

    • Press down gently.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the foam or padding.

  3. Apply a cleaning solution
    A simple option many people use at home is:

    • 1 part white vinegar
    • 1–2 parts cool water
      Lightly spray or dab the solution onto the stained area. The surface should be damp, not soaked.

  4. Let it sit
    Allow the solution to sit for about 10–15 minutes so it can help break down the residue.

  5. Blot again
    Use dry cloths or paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.

  6. Cover with baking soda
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the area. This helps absorb both moisture and odor.

  7. Let it dry completely
    Leave the baking soda on for several hours, or ideally overnight, until the mattress feels dry.

  8. Vacuum the residue
    Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove all the baking soda.

How Do You Remove Dried or Old Urine Stains?

Old stains can be more stubborn, but you can often improve them with a similar process—just repeat it more than once if needed.

Steps for dried pee stains

  1. Lightly re-dampen the stain
    Use a small amount of water or a water-vinegar mix to moisten the area. This can help loosen dried residue.

  2. Clean as above
    Apply your cleaning solution, let it sit, blot, then use baking soda and vacuum after it dries.

  3. Repeat if necessary
    Deep or old stains may require several rounds of treatment to reduce discoloration and smell.

📝 Tip: For very old or extensive stains, there may be some permanent discoloration, even if the odor is reduced.

How Do You Get Rid of the Smell of Pee in a Mattress?

Even after the stain looks lighter, a lingering smell is a common concern.

To help with odor:

  • Use white vinegar solution to neutralize odors instead of only using water.
  • Apply baking soda generously and leave it for a long drying period.
  • Air out the mattress in a well-ventilated room and, if possible, near sunlight to help with freshness.

If odor remains after one treatment, repeating the process can gradually improve it.

Is It Safe to Use Bleach or Strong Cleaners?

Bleach and harsh cleaners are usually not recommended for mattresses because they can:

  • Damage or break down foam or fabric
  • Leave strong chemical residues and smells
  • Discolor the surface

For most people, mild household ingredients like water, vinegar, and baking soda are enough to handle typical urine accidents.

How Can I Protect My Mattress From Future Accidents?

To make how to clean pee on mattress easier next time (if it happens again), consider:

  • Using a waterproof mattress protector to block liquids from soaking into the mattress.
  • Adding a washable mattress pad on top of the protector for extra comfort and an additional layer to catch spills.
  • Checking bedding and protectors regularly so you can deal with accidents quickly, before they dry.

What If the Mattress Still Seems Damp?

A mattress should be completely dry before you sleep on it again or put sheets back on.

To speed up drying:

  • Open windows or use a fan for good airflow.
  • If possible, stand the mattress upright so both sides can air out.
  • Avoid using high heat directly on the mattress surface.

If moisture remains trapped inside, it may lead to lingering odors or other issues over time.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Clean Pee On Mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately; don’t rub or scrub.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A mild mix of water and white vinegar, followed by baking soda, is commonly used to clean and deodorize.
  • Let it fully dry: Always allow plenty of time for the mattress to dry before using it again.
  • Old stains may need repeats: Dried urine stains and smells often improve over several cleaning cycles, not just one.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Strong cleaners and bleach can damage mattress materials and are usually unnecessary.
  • Protection helps: A waterproof protector and washable layers make future cleanup much easier.

Handled calmly and promptly, pee on a mattress doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right steps, most people can significantly reduce both the stain and the smell and keep their mattress comfortable and usable.