How To Get Dog Pee Off Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work
If you’re searching for “How To Get Dog Pee Off Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering urine stain and smell. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, using common household items, and answers the most frequent questions about dog pee on mattresses.
What’s the First Thing I Should Do When My Dog Pees on the Mattress?
Act quickly. The faster you respond, the easier it is to remove the urine and reduce any lasting odor.
Strip the bed
Remove sheets, mattress protectors, and blankets. Wash them separately following the care labels.Blot, don’t rub
Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly, but do not scrub, as rubbing can push urine deeper into the mattress.Check how deep it went
Feel around the area to see how large the wet spot is. This helps you know how much cleaning solution you’ll need.
How To Get Dog Pee Off Mattress Using Household Ingredients
Here’s a basic method many people use with items they already have at home.
Step 1: Apply a Vinegar + Water Solution
A mild vinegar solution can help neutralize urine and reduce odor.
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bowl.
- Lightly spray or pour enough solution to cover the stained area and surrounding edges.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to break down the urine.
- Blot again with clean towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Use Baking Soda for Odor Control
Baking soda helps absorb both moisture and smell.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the treated area.
- Gently pat it down so it reaches the surface of the mattress fabric.
- Leave it on for at least several hours, preferably overnight, so it can fully absorb odors.
Step 3: Vacuum Thoroughly
Once the baking soda is completely dry:
- Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment.
- Vacuum the area slowly and thoroughly to remove all baking soda.
- Check for any remaining odor or discoloration. Repeat the process if needed.
What If the Dog Pee Stain Is Old or Already Dry?
Dried urine can be more stubborn, but the same basic process still applies.
- Lightly re-dampen the area with the vinegar and water solution. This helps re-activate the stain so it can be lifted.
- Let the solution sit a bit longer (up to 15 minutes) before blotting.
- Apply baking soda afterward, and leave it longer—sometimes 12–24 hours can be helpful.
- Vacuum and repeat if any odor remains.
For very old, set-in stains, it may take multiple rounds of cleaning to noticeably reduce the smell and discoloration.
Is It Safe to Use Strong Cleaners or Bleach on a Mattress?
Most mattresses do not respond well to harsh chemicals:
- Bleach and strong disinfectants can:
- Damage mattress fabrics and foam
- Leave strong residual smells
- Potentially discolor the surface
If you’re wondering How To Get Dog Pee Off Mattress safely, gentler options like diluted vinegar and baking soda are usually preferred. Always avoid soaking the mattress with any liquid, as trapped moisture can cause long-term issues.
How Can I Dry the Mattress Faster After Cleaning?
A mattress can hold moisture deep inside, so drying it well is important.
- Increase air circulation: Open windows or turn on a fan.
- Use indirect warmth: A space heater at a safe distance or warmer room temperature can help, but avoid direct high heat.
- Lift the mattress: If possible, stand it upright or lean it to allow airflow around the cleaned area.
Make sure the mattress is fully dry before putting bedding back on. Touch the area and, if needed, press with a dry towel to check for hidden dampness.
How Do I Prevent My Dog From Peeing on the Mattress Again?
While behavior and training are separate topics, there are a few mattress-specific steps you can take:
- Use a waterproof mattress protector to create a barrier between accidents and the mattress.
- Keep bedroom doors closed when you’re not home or not supervising.
- Clean accidents thoroughly right away so your dog is less likely to return to the same spot.
The more completely you remove both the stain and the odor, the less likely your dog will be drawn back to that area.
✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways
Key points consumers should understand about How To Get Dog Pee Off Mattress
- Act fast: Blot up fresh urine immediately to limit staining and odor.
- Use gentle solutions: A mix of white vinegar and water, followed by baking soda, is a common home method.
- Avoid soaking: Too much liquid can push urine deeper and slow drying.
- Let baking soda sit: The longer it stays on (once the area is damp, not soaking), the better it can absorb odors.
- Vacuum well: Remove all baking soda once dry to leave the surface clean.
- Repeat if needed: Older or severe stains may need several treatments.
- Protect for the future: Consider a waterproof barrier to make future accidents easier to manage.
By following these steps, you can approach How To Get Dog Pee Off Mattress with a clear, calm plan and help your mattress stay cleaner and fresher over time.

