How To Clean Urine Smell From a Mattress: Simple, Effective Steps That Work

If you’re searching for “How To Clean Urine Smell From a Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident, an older stain, or a lingering odor that just won’t go away. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, why it works, and how to prevent smells from coming back.

Why Does Urine Smell Linger in a Mattress?

A mattress is thick and absorbent, so liquid can soak deep below the surface. Urine contains salts and organic compounds that can:

  • Leave visible yellow stains
  • Create a persistent ammonia-like odor
  • Attract additional moisture and make the smell worse over time

Removing only the surface stain isn’t enough. To truly handle how to clean urine smell from a mattress, you need to neutralize the odor below the top fabric layer.

What Should I Do First When Urine Gets on a Mattress?

Step 1: Act Quickly if the Urine Is Fresh

  1. Blot, don’t rub.
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to gently press on the wet area. This helps absorb as much urine as possible without pushing it deeper into the mattress.

  2. Remove bedding immediately.
    Strip sheets and protectors so the moisture doesn’t spread. Launder them according to their care labels.

  3. Avoid heat.
    Do not use hot air directly on the wet spot (like a hair dryer). Heat can help set stains and odors.

The goal at this stage is to minimize how far the urine travels into the mattress so later cleaning is more effective.

How To Clean Urine Smell From a Mattress Using Common Household Items

This is a widely used, at-home method that many people find effective for both fresh and dried urine smells.

Step 2: Clean the Area With a Gentle Solution

  1. Mix a mild cleaning solution.
    A common choice is a mix of cool water and a small amount of gentle liquid soap or mild detergent.

  2. Lightly apply the solution.
    Dampen (don’t soak) a clean cloth with the solution and dab the stained area. Avoid pouring liquid directly on the mattress, which can drive moisture deeper.

  3. Blot again with a dry cloth.
    Alternate between the damp cloth and a dry towel to lift out residue while keeping moisture under control.

Step 3: Neutralize Odor With Baking Soda

  1. Sprinkle dry baking soda generously over the damp area.
    Baking soda is commonly used to help absorb moisture and odor from fabrics and soft surfaces.

  2. Let it sit for several hours.
    Many people leave baking soda on for at least 8 hours, or even overnight, so it has time to work into the fabric surface.

  3. Vacuum thoroughly.
    Once completely dry, vacuum the baking soda using an upholstery attachment if available. This helps lift both powder and trapped odor from the surface.

If the smell improves but doesn’t completely disappear, the process can often be repeated one or two more times.

What If the Urine Smell Is Old or Very Strong?

Older stains and odors can be more stubborn because they’ve had time to dry, settle in, and crystallize.

Step 4: Tackle Set-In Odors

  • Lightly re-dampen the area.
    Use a small amount of plain water to slightly moisten the stained spot. This can help re-activate the odor so cleaning agents work more effectively.

  • Repeat the cleaning and baking soda steps.
    Clean gently with your solution, blot as much moisture as possible, then apply fresh baking soda and let it sit.

  • Give it extra drying time.
    Urine can sink deeper than you think. Allow plenty of time for the mattress to air dry completely before making the bed.

If a strong smell persists even after several attempts, it may indicate that urine has penetrated very deep into the mattress core, which can be challenging to completely remove at home.

How Can I Dry the Mattress Safely After Cleaning?

Proper drying is just as important as cleaning when you’re figuring out how to clean urine smell from a mattress.

  • Increase air circulation.
    Open windows, use a fan, or run a dehumidifier in the room to help moisture evaporate.

  • Avoid direct intense heat.
    Gentle air movement is preferable to very hot air, which can sometimes affect mattress materials.

  • Wait before remaking the bed.
    Ensure the mattress feels completely dry to the touch. Trapped moisture can cause odors to return or create new unpleasant smells.

How Do I Prevent Future Urine Smells in My Mattress?

A few simple habits can make accidents easier to manage:

  • Use a washable, waterproof mattress protector under the sheet.
  • Address any accidents as soon as you notice them.
  • Periodically air out your mattress by stripping the bed and allowing fresh air and ventilation.
  • Lightly vacuum the mattress surface from time to time to help keep it fresh.

Prevention doesn’t stop all issues, but it greatly reduces how deeply liquids can penetrate, making any future cleanups much simpler.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about how to clean urine smell from a mattress

  • Blot first, don’t rub – absorb as much fresh urine as you can before cleaning.
  • Avoid soaking the mattress – use small amounts of cleaner and always blot dry.
  • Baking soda is a helpful odor absorber – apply generously and give it hours to work.
  • Set-in odors may need repeated treatments – especially if the accident is old.
  • Complete drying is essential – good airflow and patience help keep smells from returning.
  • Protective bedding makes a big difference – it’s easier to wash a cover than a mattress.

With a calm, step-by-step approach, you can usually reduce or remove urine odor effectively and help your mattress stay fresher and more comfortable over time.