How To Get a Urine Smell Out Of a Mattress: Step‑by‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for How To Get a Urine Smell Out Of a Mattress, you’re usually dealing with a fresh accident, an older stain, or a lingering odor that just won’t go away. This guide walks through simple, home-friendly methods to clean urine from a mattress and reduce odor, plus answers to common follow‑up questions.

Why Does Urine Leave Such a Strong Smell in a Mattress?

Urine can soak deep into the mattress layers, especially in foam or pillow-top designs. As it dries, it can leave behind:

  • Odor-causing residues
  • Stains that are yellowish or darker
  • A slightly damp or musty smell if not dried properly

Mattresses can’t go in the washing machine, so cleaning needs to happen on the surface and just below it, using methods that won’t soak or damage the materials.

How To Get a Urine Smell Out Of a Mattress (Fresh Accident)

For fresh urine, acting quickly is the best way to stop stains and odor from setting.

1. Blot, Don’t Rub

  • Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels.
  • Press firmly to soak up as much liquid as possible.
  • Avoid rubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

2. Apply a Gentle Cleaning Solution

A common home method is a mild cleaning mix:

  • Cool or lukewarm water
  • A small amount of gentle liquid soap or detergent

Lightly dab this solution onto the area with a clean cloth. The goal is to lift urine from the surface, not soak the mattress.

3. Use Baking Soda to Neutralize Odor

After blotting with the cleaning solution:

  • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp spot.
  • Gently tap it in so it makes contact with the surface fibers.
  • Let it sit for several hours, ideally overnight.

Baking soda is commonly used in homes to absorb moisture and help neutralize odors.

4. Vacuum Thoroughly

Once the baking soda is completely dry:

  • Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
  • Vacuum up all the powder, going over the area slowly.

If a light smell remains, you can repeat the baking soda step.

What If the Urine Stain Is Old or Already Dry?

When you’re figuring out How To Get a Urine Smell Out Of a Mattress days or weeks later, the odor may be more stubborn.

1. Re‑Dampen the Area Lightly

  • Lightly mist the stained area with plain water.
  • This helps to loosen dried urine residues, but avoid soaking.

2. Clean With a Mild Solution Again

Use the same gentle approach:

  • Apply a small amount of a mild, soapy solution with a cloth.
  • Blot, don’t scrub aggressively.
  • Follow with baking soda and let it sit for a longer period.

You may need to repeat the process several times for older stains, allowing full drying and vacuuming between each round.

Is Vinegar Safe to Use on a Mattress?

Many people use diluted white vinegar as a deodorizing cleaner. It’s often used to:

  • Help break down odor-causing residues
  • Reduce some lingering smells as it dries

However, it’s important to:

  • Dilute it with water
  • Test it on a small, hidden area first
  • Avoid over‑wetting the mattress

Some mattress materials may be more sensitive, so always check any care instructions that came with your mattress before using stronger solutions.

How Do I Make Sure the Mattress Dries Completely?

One of the most important parts of How To Get a Urine Smell Out Of a Mattress is the drying stage. Trapped moisture can cause ongoing odors.

Helpful drying tips:

  • Open windows or use fans to increase airflow.
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side for better air circulation.
  • Allow plenty of time; thick mattresses may take longer to feel dry inside.
  • Avoid putting bedding back on until everything is fully dry to the touch.

Will the Smell Ever Fully Go Away?

In many everyday cases, consistent cleaning and deodorizing greatly reduces or removes the urine smell. However, factors like:

  • Mattress age
  • Type of foam or filling
  • How long the urine sat before cleaning

can affect the final result. If a strong odor remains after several careful cleaning attempts, some people decide to limit that mattress to a less-used room or eventually replace it.

How Can I Prevent Future Urine Smells in My Mattress?

Prevention can save a lot of time and stress:

  • Use a washable, waterproof mattress protector.
  • Add a removable mattress pad that can go in the washing machine.
  • Address accidents as soon as possible to stop them from soaking in.
  • Air out your mattress periodically by removing all bedding and letting it breathe.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Get a Urine Smell Out Of a Mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to reduce staining and odor.
  • Go gentle: Use mild cleaning solutions and avoid soaking the mattress.
  • Deodorize: Baking soda is a widely used home option for absorbing moisture and odor.
  • Dry thoroughly: Good airflow and enough time are essential to prevent lingering smells.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or set‑in stains may require several rounds of cleaning.
  • Protect for the future: A waterproof cover and prompt cleanup help keep odors from returning.

With patient, careful cleaning and proper drying, most people can significantly improve or remove urine odors and keep their mattress feeling fresher for longer.