How To Clean Pee Out Of a Memory Foam Mattress: Step‑By‑Step FAQ

If you’re searching for “How To Clean Pee Out Of a Memory Foam Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering urine stain and smell. This guide walks you through what to do right away, what still works for dried stains, and how to protect your mattress in the future.

What’s the first thing I should do if pee gets on my memory foam mattress?

Act quickly, but stay calm. Memory foam is absorbent, so the goal is to remove as much liquid as possible before it soaks deeper.

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove all sheets, protectors, and bedding and set them aside to be washed.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to press firmly on the wet area.

    • Work from the outside of the stain toward the center.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the foam.

  3. Use a gentle cleaning solution
    A common option for fresh urine is a mild mix of water and gentle detergent or a water–vinegar solution. Apply lightly—memory foam should never be soaked.

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

Step‑by‑step for fresh urine

  1. Blot excess urine
    Keep pressing with dry towels until they come away only slightly damp.

  2. Apply a cleaning solution
    Mix one of the following in a spray bottle:

    • Option A: 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water
    • Option B: A small amount of mild liquid detergent in warm water

    Lightly spray the stained area. The surface should be damp, not saturated.

  3. Gently blot again
    Use a clean cloth to lift the solution and urine from the foam. Repeat spraying and blotting if needed.

  4. Deodorize with baking soda
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp spot.

    • Leave it on for several hours, or ideally overnight, to help absorb moisture and odor.

  5. Vacuum thoroughly
    Once the baking soda is dry and powdery, vacuum it up with an upholstery attachment.

Can I clean dried or old pee stains from memory foam?

Yes, dried urine stains are harder to remove, but you can often lighten the stain and reduce odor with a bit more effort.

How to treat dried urine stains

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area
    Mist the stained area with water or a water–vinegar mix to rehydrate the stain. Do not soak.

  2. Use a stronger cleaning mix
    Some people find a solution of water, a small amount of detergent, and vinegar more effective on old stains. Apply lightly with a spray bottle.

  3. Let it sit
    Allow the solution to sit for 10–15 minutes so it can reach urine trapped in the foam.

  4. Blot thoroughly
    Press with clean towels to draw out as much liquid as possible.

  5. Apply baking soda and vacuum
    As with fresh stains, cover the area with baking soda, let it dry completely, then vacuum.

If the stain or odor is still noticeable, you can repeat the process. Some deeply set stains may never disappear fully, but they can often be made much less noticeable.

Is it safe to saturate memory foam or use harsh chemicals?

Should I soak the mattress?

No. Memory foam holds liquid and dries slowly. Over‑wetting can:

  • Trap moisture deep inside
  • Lead to persistent odors
  • Make it harder for the mattress to dry properly

Always aim for light, controlled dampness, followed by thorough drying.

Are bleach or strong chemicals okay?

Strong chemicals can:

  • Damage memory foam
  • Affect its feel and structure
  • Leave strong, lingering odors

For most urine stains, mild household ingredients (water, vinegar, gentle detergent, baking soda) are preferred.

How do I dry the mattress after cleaning?

Drying is as important as cleaning. A mattress that stays damp inside can smell musty or feel uncomfortable.

  • Increase airflow:
    Open windows, turn on a fan, or place the mattress where air can circulate around it.
  • Use gentle warmth:
    A low‑heat hair dryer held at a distance or a warm, well‑ventilated room can speed drying. Avoid high heat directly on the foam.
  • Be patient:
    Allow several hours, and check that the foam feels completely dry before putting bedding back on.

How can I prevent future pee stains on a memory foam mattress?

Since memory foam absorbs liquids easily, prevention is often simpler than deep cleaning.

Common protective steps include:

  • Water‑resistant or waterproof mattress protectors
  • Washable mattress pads on top of the protector
  • Regular spot checks and quick cleanup after any accident

These layers create a barrier, so any future accidents are more likely to stay on the surface, where they are easier to clean.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Clean Pee Out Of a Memory Foam Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to prevent deep soaking.
  • Avoid soaking the foam: Use light sprays of cleaning solution, not heavy pouring.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Water, mild detergent, vinegar, and baking soda are commonly used options.
  • Blot, then deodorize: Blot after each application, then use baking soda to absorb moisture and odor.
  • Dry completely: Ensure the mattress is fully dry before making the bed again.
  • Protect the mattress: A good protector or cover can make future cleanup much easier.

With careful blotting, gentle cleaning solutions, and thorough drying, many people can successfully manage both fresh and dried urine on memory foam and keep their mattress comfortable and usable.