How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching for “How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering odor that just won’t go away. Cat urine can be stubborn, but with the right approach you can often remove both the moisture and most of the smell.

This FAQ-style guide walks you through what to do right away, what to avoid, and how to handle older stains and odors.

Why Is Cat Pee Smell So Hard To Remove From a Mattress?

Cat urine contains uric acid crystals, which can soak deeply into a mattress. When they dry, they can leave behind a strong, sharp odor that reappears with humidity or warmth.

A mattress is also thick and absorbent, so liquids can quickly move beyond the surface layer. That’s why fast action and thorough drying matter as much as the cleaning product you use.

What Should I Do Immediately After My Cat Pees on the Mattress?

1. Blot, Don’t Rub

Use dry, absorbent towels or paper towels to press firmly on the wet area:

  • Work from the outside of the stain toward the center
  • Swap out towels as they become damp
  • Avoid rubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress

2. Use a Simple Cleaning Solution

A common home method is:

  • Mix white vinegar and water (about equal parts) in a spray bottle
  • Lightly spray the stained area until it feels damp but not soaked
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
  • Blot again with clean, dry towels

Vinegar helps neutralize odors and break down some components of the urine. Keeping the mattress from getting overly wet reduces the risk of lingering moisture and odor.

How Do I Get Rid of the Smell After Cleaning?

After using a vinegar solution, many people find it helpful to use baking soda:

  1. While the mattress is still slightly damp, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the affected area.
  2. Gently press it in with your hand.
  3. Leave it in place for several hours or overnight to help absorb odor and moisture.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all baking soda from the surface and crevices.

If odor remains, the process can sometimes be repeated. Persistent smells may require a specialized cleaner designed to break down urine components.

How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of Mattress If the Stain Is Old?

Dried cat urine can be more challenging because it may have:

  • Soaked deeper into the foam or padding
  • Crystallized and become more odor-resistant

For old stains:

  1. Locate the area: You might notice yellowish discoloration or a particular spot where the odor is strongest.
  2. Re-wet the stain lightly with a water and vinegar solution. This can help loosen dried residue.
  3. Blot and apply baking soda as described above.
  4. Allow a longer resting time, sometimes 12–24 hours, before vacuuming.

Deep, long-standing stains may not fully disappear from the core of the mattress, but reducing the odor on the surface and upper layers can still make a noticeable difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Cat Urine From a Mattress

  • Using too much liquid: Oversaturating the mattress makes it harder to dry and may spread the urine.
  • Masking with strong fragrances only: Sprays and perfumes may cover the smell temporarily but usually don’t solve the source.
  • Skipping the drying step: A damp mattress can develop additional odors over time.
  • Using very hot air (such as some heat-based drying methods) on an untreated stain: In some cases, heat may make certain odors more stubborn once they’re set.

How Long Will It Take for the Smell to Go Away?

The timeline depends on:

  • How quickly you treated the accident
  • How deep the urine soaked in
  • How well the mattress dries

Many people notice a clear improvement after one thorough cleaning and full drying cycle, but older or heavier accidents may need more than one round. If the smell lingers, repeating the cleaning steps or focusing on better airflow and drying time can help.

How Can I Help the Mattress Dry Properly?

After cleaning:

  • Let the mattress air out in a well-ventilated room
  • Open windows or use a fan to improve airflow
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side to help moisture escape
  • Avoid sleeping directly on the cleaned area until it feels completely dry

A fully dried mattress is less likely to hold on to odors.

Will the Cat Pee Smell Ever Come Out Completely?

Results vary. Many people find that fresh stains respond well to quick cleaning and careful drying, with the odor mostly or fully removed. Deep, repeated accidents or very old stains may leave a faint residual smell, especially up close.

If you’ve tried multiple careful cleanings and the smell still feels strong, it may indicate that urine has reached deeper layers of the mattress that are harder to treat from the surface.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to keep it from soaking deeply.
  • Use simple solutions: A mix of vinegar and water, followed by baking soda, is a widely used home method.
  • Avoid oversoaking: Too much liquid can push urine deeper and slow drying.
  • Let it sit and then vacuum: Baking soda needs hours to absorb; vacuum thoroughly afterward.
  • Older stains need patience: Re-wetting, re-cleaning, and extended drying may be necessary.
  • Drying is crucial: Good airflow and time help prevent new odors and reduce old ones.

Understanding How To Get Cat Pee Smell Out Of Mattress gives you a practical plan the next time an accident happens, helping protect both your sleep surface and your peace of mind.