How To Clean Pee Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Really Help

If you’re searching for how to clean pee out of mattress, you probably need answers fast. Whether it’s from a child, a pet, or an accident, urine can leave stains and lingering odours if not treated correctly. This guide walks you through what to do, what to avoid, and how to protect your mattress in the future.

What Happens When Pee Gets On a Mattress?

Urine is a liquid that can soak deep into mattress layers, especially foam and pillow-top styles. If it dries, it can leave:

  • Visible yellowish stains
  • Unpleasant odours
  • A feeling that the mattress is less fresh or hygienic

Acting quickly usually makes how to clean pee out of mattress much easier, but even dried stains can often be improved with the right approach.

How To Clean Fresh Pee Out Of a Mattress

Step-by-step for a fresh accident

  1. Strip the bed immediately
    Remove sheets, mattress protector, and bedding so urine doesn’t spread further.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels.

    • Press firmly to soak up as much as possible.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push liquid deeper into the mattress.

  3. Apply a gentle cleaning solution
    Mix a mild solution of water and a small amount of gentle liquid detergent or a simple household cleaner suitable for fabrics.

    • Lightly spray or dab the affected area.
    • Do not saturate the mattress; too much liquid can be hard to dry.

  4. Blot again
    Use dry towels to pull up moisture from the mattress surface and just below it.

  5. Use baking soda to absorb moisture and odour
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.

    • Leave it on for several hours, ideally until fully dry.

  6. Vacuum thoroughly
    Once dry, vacuum the baking soda to remove residue and odour.

How To Clean Dried Pee Out Of a Mattress

Older stains are more stubborn, but you can still often improve them.

Extra steps for dried or set-in stains

  1. Lightly re-dampen the stained area
    Use a small amount of water or a gentle cleaning mixture. The goal is to loosen the dried urine, not soak the mattress.

  2. Apply a targeted cleaner
    A mild, fabric-safe cleaning solution or an enzyme-based cleaner designed for organic stains is commonly used for these situations.

    • Follow the product’s instructions carefully.
    • Test any cleaner on a small, hidden area of the mattress first.

  3. Blot, then wait
    Blot away excess moisture, then allow time for the cleaner to work and the mattress to dry.

  4. Finish with baking soda and vacuuming
    Just like with fresh stains, baking soda can help control any remaining odour.

Will the Smell Go Away Completely?

Odour removal depends on:

  • How long the urine sat in the mattress
  • How deeply it soaked in
  • The type and thickness of the mattress

Often, careful cleaning plus baking soda helps greatly reduce or remove odours. In some cases, especially with repeated accidents, a faint smell may remain. Repeating the process or using an odour-focused cleaner can be helpful.

Is It Safe To Use Strong Chemicals on a Mattress?

It’s best to be cautious:

  • Avoid harsh chemicals that could irritate skin or damage mattress materials.
  • Avoid soaking the mattress with bleach or heavily perfumed products.
  • Always spot-test in an inconspicuous area first.

Mattresses are not designed to be heavily washed, so using minimal liquid and mild products is usually safest.

How Can I Dry the Mattress Faster?

Proper drying is essential to avoid musty smells:

  • Open windows or improve room ventilation.
  • Use a fan or place the mattress in a well-ventilated space.
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side to allow more air circulation.

Avoid putting bedding back on until the mattress is fully dry to the touch.

How To Prevent Future Pee Stains on a Mattress

Once you’ve learned how to clean pee out of mattress, prevention becomes the next priority:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to block spills and accidents from soaking in.
  • Consider an additional washable mattress pad for extra protection.
  • Address accidents as soon as you notice them to avoid permanent staining.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to clean pee out of mattress

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately; don’t rub or scrub.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Mild solutions and careful spot-cleaning are usually best.
  • Avoid over-wetting: Too much liquid can be hard to dry and may cause odours.
  • Baking soda helps: It’s commonly used to absorb moisture and reduce smells.
  • Dried stains need extra care: Lightly re-dampen, use a targeted cleaner, then dry thoroughly.
  • Let it fully dry: Good airflow and patience are important before remaking the bed.
  • Protect going forward: A waterproof protector can make any future cleanup far easier.

Knowing how to clean pee out of mattress gives you more confidence when accidents happen. With quick action, gentle products, and good drying, many people find their mattress feels fresher and more comfortable again.