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

If you’re searching for how to clean pee smell out of mattress, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a stubborn old odor. This guide walks through what causes the smell, how to remove it step by step, and how to keep it from coming back.

Why Does Pee Smell Linger in a Mattress?

Mattresses are thick and absorbent. When urine soaks in, it can:

  • Penetrate deep into the foam or padding
  • Leave behind salts and organic residues even after the surface looks clean
  • Lead to persistent odors if not treated thoroughly and quickly

Understanding this helps explain why a surface wipe isn’t enough. To truly learn how to clean pee smell out of mattress, you need to address both the stain and the odor-causing residue inside the mattress.

First Steps: What To Do Right After an Accident

How should I deal with fresh urine on a mattress?

Acting quickly makes a big difference:

  1. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels to press on the wet area. Rubbing can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  2. Remove bedding immediately
    Strip sheets, covers, and protectors so the mattress can start to dry.

  3. Avoid heat at first
    Hot air or direct heat can sometimes make odors more stubborn by setting in residues.

These steps prepare the mattress for deeper cleaning and help limit how far the urine spreads.

How To Clean Pee Smell Out Of Mattress: Step‑by‑Step

What basic home ingredients can I use?

Many people find common household supplies effective for this problem. A typical approach uses:

  • Baking soda
  • Mild liquid detergent or dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Cool or lukewarm water
  • A spray bottle and clean cloths

Step 1: Treat the area with a gentle cleaning solution

Mix a solution of:

  • About 1 part white vinegar to 2 parts water, plus
  • A small amount of mild detergent

Lightly spray the stained area until it’s damp but not drenched. The goal is to:

  • Help break down residues
  • Begin neutralizing some of the odor

Let it sit for around 10–15 minutes, then blot again with clean towels to remove as much moisture as possible.

Step 2: Use baking soda to tackle odor

After blotting:

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
  2. Gently press the baking soda in with your hand (no rubbing needed).
  3. Leave it on for several hours, or ideally overnight, so it can absorb moisture and odor.

When the baking soda looks clumpy or dry, vacuum it thoroughly.

Step 3: Repeat if needed

Some mattresses or older stains may need more than one round. If a faint smell remains:

  • Reapply the vinegar solution lightly
  • Blot
  • Add fresh baking soda
  • Vacuum again once dry

Multiple light treatments are often better than one heavy soaking.

What About Old, Dried Pee Smells?

Can I still remove odors if the stain is old?

Old stains can be more challenging, but many people still see improvement with similar methods:

  • Lightly mist the area with vinegar and water (don’t oversaturate)
  • Let it sit briefly
  • Blot, then apply baking soda and vacuum after it dries

For very old, stubborn odors, some sleepers also use enzyme-based cleaners designed for organic stains. Always test in a small, hidden area first to check for any discoloration or damage to the fabric.

Is It Safe to Soak the Mattress?

Mattresses do not dry quickly, and excess moisture can create new problems. When exploring how to clean pee smell out of mattress, it’s important to:

  • Avoid flooding the mattress with water or solution
  • Focus on light, controlled application and thorough blotting
  • Allow ample drying time in a well-ventilated room

If possible, position the mattress where air can reach several sides and use a fan to speed drying.

How Can I Prevent Pee Smells in the Future?

Are mattress protectors worth using?

Many sleepers rely on water-resistant or waterproof protectors to:

  • Create a barrier between accidents and the mattress core
  • Make cleanup mostly about washing bedding instead of deep-cleaning the mattress
  • Help keep the mattress smelling fresher over time

Washing bedding promptly and airing the mattress occasionally can also help manage everyday odors.

❗ Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Using too much liquid: Over-wetting can push urine deeper and cause long drying times.
  • Rubbing the stain: This can spread the urine and damage fibers.
  • Relying only on air fresheners: Sprays may mask smells temporarily but do not remove residues.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about how to clean pee smell out of mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh accidents immediately to limit how deep urine soaks in.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A mix of vinegar, water, and mild detergent helps break down residues.
  • Baking soda is valuable: It absorbs moisture and odor, especially when left on for several hours.
  • Avoid oversoaking: Light applications, thorough blotting, and good airflow support proper drying.
  • Old stains may need repeats: Multiple treatments are common for set-in smells.
  • Protection helps: A good mattress protector can significantly reduce future odor problems.

With a patient, step-by-step approach, many people find they can noticeably reduce or remove urine odors and extend the comfortable life of their mattress.