How To Clean Peed On Mattress: Step‑By‑Step FAQ Guide
If you’re searching for “How To Clean Peed On Mattress”, you probably want a fast, clear, and effective way to deal with a fresh accident—or a dried stain that still smells. This guide answers the most common questions about cleaning urine from a mattress and protecting it from long-term damage.
What should I do first when someone pees on a mattress?
Acting quickly makes a big difference. Fresh urine is much easier to remove than dried stains.
Strip the bed
Remove all sheets, mattress protectors, and bedding. Wash them according to their care labels.Blot, don’t rub
Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly; avoid scrubbing, which pushes urine deeper into the mattress.Check how deep it went
Gently press on the area with a dry towel. If it still picks up moisture, continue blotting until the towel comes away mostly dry.
How To Clean Peed On Mattress: What’s the basic method?
Here is a common at-home approach many people use to clean a peed-on mattress:
- Blot the area thoroughly (as above).
- Apply a cleaning solution
A simple option is a mix of plain water and a small amount of mild detergent in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the stained area—do not soak it. - Blot again
Use a clean cloth to lift out the solution and remaining urine. - Rinse lightly
Mist with plain water to help remove soapy residue, then blot until the mattress feels only slightly damp. - Deodorize with baking soda
Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area. Let it sit for several hours or overnight to absorb odor and moisture. - Vacuum the baking soda
Once dry, gently vacuum the area using an upholstery attachment.
If odor or discoloration remains, you may need to repeat the process.
How do I get rid of urine smell from a mattress?
Urine odor can linger even after visible stains fade. To reduce smell:
- Use baking soda generously
Baking soda can help absorb both moisture and odor. Leaving it on longer (up to a full day) can be more effective. - Ensure thorough drying
A mattress that stays damp tends to smell stronger over time. Good airflow and time are important. - Repeat treatment if needed
Stubborn smells may require more than one cleaning round.
Avoid heavily perfumed sprays that only mask odors. They may temporarily cover the smell but usually don’t address the source.
What if the pee stain is old or already dried?
Dried urine can be more challenging. You can still follow the same basic steps for How To Clean Peed On Mattress, but you may need to:
- Lightly re-dampen the area with a water-based cleaning solution so the stain can loosen.
- Let the solution sit for 10–15 minutes before blotting.
- Use baking soda multiple times to help draw out deeper odors.
Older stains might not disappear completely in one session, but gradual improvement over a few treatments is common.
Is it safe to soak the mattress to clean pee?
No. Avoid soaking the mattress.
Too much liquid can:
- Push urine deeper into the foam or padding
- Make drying very difficult
- Encourage lingering odor
Instead, use light sprays and careful blotting. The goal is to clean the upper layers without saturating the interior.
How long does it take a mattress to dry after cleaning?
Drying time depends on the amount of moisture, room temperature, and airflow.
To speed up drying:
- Open windows or use a fan to improve air circulation
- If possible, stand the mattress on its side
- Avoid making the bed until the area is fully dry to the touch
In many home situations, several hours to overnight is a reasonable expectation.
Can I still use a peed-on mattress after cleaning?
In many cases, yes, especially if:
- The urine was cleaned promptly
- The mattress is fully dry afterward
- Odor and staining have been significantly reduced
If the mattress continues to smell strongly or feels damp even after repeated cleaning and drying attempts, it may need more intensive attention or replacement, depending on its condition and age.
How can I prevent future accidents from damaging my mattress?
For anyone concerned about repeated accidents (children, pets, or occasional spills), it can help to:
- Use a water-resistant or waterproof mattress protector
- Keep extra bedding on hand for quick changes
- Address accidents as soon as possible to limit staining and odor
✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways
Key points consumers should understand about How To Clean Peed On Mattress
- Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately; don’t rub or scrub.
- Avoid soaking: Use light sprays, not heavy pouring, to prevent deep saturation.
- Simple supplies work: Mild detergent, water, and baking soda are common home options.
- Dry thoroughly: Good airflow and time are essential to reduce odor and damage.
- Old stains need patience: Dried urine may require several cleaning rounds.
- Protection helps: A mattress protector can greatly reduce future cleanup effort.
Knowing How To Clean Peed On Mattress gives you a clear, manageable process: blot, lightly clean, deodorize, and dry well. With prompt attention and a bit of patience, many people find they can restore comfort and freshness to their mattress after an accident.

