How To Clean Urine From Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work

If you’re searching for how to clean urine from mattress, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an old stain that just won’t go away. The good news: most urine stains and odors can be reduced significantly with the right approach, and you can usually do it with common household ingredients.

Below you’ll find clear, step‑by‑step answers to the most common questions about cleaning urine from a mattress, including fresh spills, dried stains, and lingering odors.

What’s the Best Way To Clean Fresh Urine From a Mattress?

When the accident is recent, acting quickly makes the biggest difference.

Step‑by‑step: How to clean fresh urine from mattress

  1. Blot, don’t rub
    Use dry, clean towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly; avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  2. Apply a mild cleaning solution
    Mix a simple solution in a spray bottle:

    • About half water, half white vinegar
      Lightly spray the affected area until it’s damp but not soaked. Vinegar helps break down urine components and reduce odor.

  3. Blot again
    After a few minutes, blot the area with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.

  4. Use baking soda on top
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp spot. This helps absorb moisture and neutralize odors.

  5. Let it sit, then vacuum
    Leave the baking soda for several hours or overnight. Once completely dry, vacuum thoroughly to remove the powder.

This simple method is often enough for fresh spills when you respond quickly.

How Do I Clean Dried or Old Urine Stains From a Mattress?

Dried urine is more challenging because it has already soaked into the foam or padding and started to crystallize, which can trap odor.

To tackle old urine stains:

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area
    Mist the stained area with plain water or a water + vinegar solution. The goal is to moisten, not soak, so the cleaner can reach dried residue.

  2. Use an enzyme-based cleaner (optional)
    Many people find enzyme cleaners useful for breaking down urine components in fabric and upholstery. If you use one, follow the product’s instructions carefully and test a small hidden area first.

  3. Allow time to work
    Let the cleaning solution sit for at least 15–30 minutes (or as directed on the cleaner). This contact time helps loosen the stain and odor.

  4. Blot and repeat if needed
    Blot with clean towels. For stubborn stains, you may need more than one round of cleaning.

  5. Finish with baking soda
    Once you’ve blotted thoroughly, apply baking soda, let it dry completely, then vacuum.

Old stains may not disappear entirely, but they often become much lighter and less noticeable with repeated gentle treatments.

Can I Use Bleach or Strong Chemicals on My Mattress?

In most cases, harsh chemicals are not recommended for cleaning urine from a mattress.

  • Bleach can:

    • Weaken or discolor mattress fabrics
    • Leave a strong residual smell
    • Be harsh on skin and lungs if not ventilated properly

  • Strong solvents or undiluted cleaners can:

    • Damage foam or internal materials
    • Leave residues that are hard to remove

It’s generally safer to stick with mild solutions like diluted vinegar, gentle cleaners designed for fabrics, and baking soda, unless your mattress care label specifically allows something stronger.

How Do I Remove Urine Smell From a Mattress?

Even after stains fade, a lingering odor can remain. To focus on odor:

  1. Air out the mattress
    If possible, stand the mattress upright in a well‑ventilated room. Fresh air and time help odors dissipate.

  2. Use baking soda generously
    Sprinkle baking soda over a wider area than the original stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more odor it can absorb.

  3. Vacuum thoroughly
    Go over the mattress slowly to remove as much baking soda as possible.

  4. Repeat if necessary
    For persistent odor, repeat the process or combine with another round of light cleaning using water and vinegar or an enzyme-based cleaner.

Will Cleaning Urine Damage My Mattress?

When done carefully, spot cleaning usually does not damage a mattress. A few tips to stay on the safe side:

  • Avoid soaking the mattress. Too much liquid can seep deep inside and be hard to dry, which may lead to lingering smell or other issues.
  • Blot instead of scrub to protect the fabric cover and stitching.
  • Allow full drying time before putting sheets back on. A fan or open windows can help speed this up.

If your mattress has a care label, it’s helpful to read it before cleaning.

How Can I Prevent Future Urine Stains?

While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can make cleanup easier:

  • Use a water-resistant mattress protector that can be removed and washed.
  • Keep spare sheets and protectors on hand for quick changes.
  • Address accidents as soon as you notice them to limit staining and odor.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to clean urine from mattress:

  • Act fast on fresh spills

    • Blot immediately
    • Use a mild water + vinegar solution
    • Finish with baking soda and vacuum

  • For old or dried stains

    • Lightly re-dampen the area
    • Consider an enzyme-based cleaner
    • Be patient and repeat if needed

  • For odor removal

    • Air out the mattress
    • Use plenty of baking soda and vacuum well

  • What to avoid

    • Do not soak the mattress
    • Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach unless clearly allowed
    • Don’t scrub aggressively

Handled calmly and step by step, cleaning urine from a mattress is manageable, and in many cases the stain and smell can be greatly reduced with simple household methods.