How To Get Dog Pee Out Of Mattress: Step‑By‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Dog Pee Out Of Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering smell. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, how to prevent odors, and what to avoid so you don’t damage your mattress.

What’s the best way to get dog pee out of a mattress?

For most mattresses, the basic process is:

  1. Act quickly and soak up moisture.

    • Blot the area with clean, dry towels or paper towels.
    • Press firmly to draw liquid out of the foam or padding.
    • Do not scrub, which can push urine deeper.

  2. Apply a gentle cleaning solution.
    A common home mix is:

    • 1 part white vinegar
    • 1–2 parts water
    • Optional: a small amount of mild dish soap

    Lightly spray or dab this onto the stain. The vinegar helps neutralize the urine smell.

  3. Blot again.

    • Gently blot until the mattress feels only slightly damp.
    • Replace towels as they become wet.

  4. Use baking soda for odor control.

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
    • Leave it for several hours, ideally overnight, to absorb moisture and odors.

  5. Vacuum thoroughly.

    • Once completely dry, vacuum up the baking soda.
    • Check for any remaining odor or discoloration and repeat if needed.

This basic method is often enough for fresh accidents when you’re learning how to get dog pee out of mattress quickly and safely.

How do I clean old or dried dog urine stains?

Dried urine can be tougher because it has had time to sink into the mattress and crystalize.

Steps for older stains

  1. Rehydrate the stain.

    • Lightly spray the area with your vinegar-and-water solution.
    • Avoid soaking; too much liquid can be hard to dry.

  2. Let it sit.

    • Wait 10–15 minutes so the solution can break down the dried residue.

  3. Blot thoroughly.

    • Use clean towels to remove as much moisture as possible.

  4. Add baking soda.

    • Cover the area with baking soda and let it sit for several hours or overnight.

  5. Vacuum and reassess.

    • Vacuum the baking soda.
    • If odor lingers, repeat once or twice. Older stains sometimes require more than one round.

What should I avoid when cleaning dog pee from a mattress?

Some common reactions can actually make things worse:

  • Avoid harsh chemicals.
    Strong cleaners or undiluted bleach can damage fabrics and foam and create strong, lingering odors of their own.

  • Avoid soaking the mattress.
    Too much liquid can penetrate deep layers, making it hard to dry and potentially leading to long-term odor or dampness.

  • Avoid steam cleaning most mattresses.
    The heat and moisture can push urine deeper into the mattress and may affect certain materials.

  • Avoid scrubbing aggressively.
    This can spread the stain and push it further inside rather than lifting it out.

How can I remove the smell if it still lingers?

Even after you think you’ve cleaned it, a faint smell can stick around, especially for older stains.

Odor-reduction tips:

  • Repeat the vinegar + baking soda process once or twice.
  • Make sure the mattress dries completely between cleanings.
  • Air out the mattress in a well-ventilated room; if possible, place it near an open window.
  • For very persistent odors, some people use specialized pet odor removers designed to break down urine. Always test a small, hidden area of the mattress first and follow the material-care guidelines.

Will dog pee permanently damage my mattress?

Dog urine can cause:

  • Discoloration of the fabric or ticking
  • Lingering odor if not cleaned properly
  • Possible breakdown of certain foam or padding materials over time if accidents happen repeatedly and are not cleaned

Prompt, gentle cleaning usually helps minimize long-term issues. If accidents are frequent, some people choose a breathable, waterproof mattress protector to help keep the mattress surface dry and easier to clean.

How can I dry the mattress safely after cleaning?

Drying properly is an important part of how to get dog pee out of mattress without creating new problems.

  • Use airflow.

    • Point a fan at the area.
    • Open windows or doors for ventilation.

  • Avoid direct high heat.

    • High heat sources (like space heaters very close to the surface) may be too intense for some materials.
    • Gentle warmth and airflow together are usually more mattress-friendly.

  • Allow plenty of time.

    • Check the cleaned area by touch; it should feel completely dry before putting bedding back on.
    • Moisture trapped inside can lead to lingering odors.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Get Dog Pee Out Of Mattress:

  • Blot, don’t scrub:
    • Blot fresh urine with towels to pull moisture out.
  • Use mild solutions:
    • Diluted vinegar + water can help neutralize odors without harsh chemicals.
  • Baking soda is your friend:
    • It absorbs leftover moisture and helps with smell.
  • Don’t oversaturate:
    • Too much liquid can drive pee deeper and slow drying.
  • Be patient with old stains:
    • Older or dried spots may need more than one cleaning cycle.
  • Dry thoroughly:
    • Good airflow and enough time are essential before remaking the bed.

Dealing with a pet accident on your bed is frustrating, but most dog urine stains and odors can be reduced significantly with calm, careful cleaning. By acting quickly, using gentle methods, and allowing your mattress to dry fully, you can usually restore a clean, comfortable sleep surface.