How To Get Dog Pee Smell Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Work

If you’re searching for “How To Get Dog Pee Smell Out Of Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a recent accident 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 long‑term smells in your mattress.

Why Does Dog Urine Smell So Strong in a Mattress?

Dog urine contains urea, ammonia, and other organic compounds. When it seeps into a mattress:

  • The liquid is absorbed deep into the foam or padding
  • It can dry but still leave behind crystals and residue
  • These residues can react with moisture in the air and start to smell again

That’s why simply wiping the surface or masking the smell with fragrance usually doesn’t work. To truly handle how to get dog pee smell out of mattress, you need to break down the urine compounds and draw them out of the material.

First Steps: What Should I Do Right After My Dog Pees on the Mattress?

1. Act Quickly

The faster you respond, the less the urine will spread and soak in.

  1. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to press down firmly.

    • Rubbing can push urine deeper into the mattress.
    • Keep blotting until no more moisture transfers.

  2. Remove all bedding
    Strip sheets, mattress protectors, and covers and wash them according to their care labels. This prevents odor from spreading and makes it easier to identify what’s left in the mattress itself.

How To Get Dog Pee Smell Out Of Mattress: Step-by-Step Deep Clean

2. Use a Vinegar and Water Solution

White vinegar is commonly used because it helps neutralize urine odor.

  • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
  • Lightly spray the affected area until it’s damp but not soaked.
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
  • Blot again with dry towels to remove excess moisture.

This helps break down the urine residue so it can be lifted out more easily.

3. Apply Baking Soda to Deodorize

Baking soda is widely used as a gentle deodorizer on mattresses.

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the treated area.
  2. Gently work it in with your hand.
  3. Let it sit for at least several hours, ideally overnight.
  4. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using a clean upholstery attachment.

If the smell is still noticeable, you can repeat the vinegar and baking soda steps.

What If the Pee Has Already Dried?

Dried stains are tougher, but you can still tackle them.

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area with plain water (do not soak the mattress).
  2. Follow the vinegar solution step above.
  3. Use baking soda and let it sit longer—often overnight or up to 24 hours.

If the odor is deeply set, some people also use specialized enzyme-based cleaners designed for pet urine. These are commonly used because they help break down organic matter, but always:

  • Test a small, hidden area first
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
  • Avoid oversaturating the mattress

Is It Safe to Use These Methods on All Mattress Types?

Most mattresses can handle lightly applied vinegar solution and baking soda, but it’s important to:

  • Check any care instructions that came with your mattress
  • Avoid getting memory foam or latex mattresses overly wet, as they can take a long time to dry
  • Make sure the mattress dries completely to discourage lingering smells

If your mattress has a removable cover, you may be able to wash the cover separately according to the label, which can make odor removal easier.

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

The time it takes depends on:

  • How much urine was absorbed
  • How quickly you treated it
  • How well the mattress dries

Often, the smell improves significantly after one full cleaning and drying cycle. For old or strong odors, you may need multiple rounds of treatment over a few days.

To speed up drying and odor release:

  • Open windows for fresh air and ventilation
  • Use a fan pointed toward the mattress
  • Allow sunlight to reach the mattress if possible (without overheating or damaging materials)

How Can I Prevent Future Dog Pee Smells in My Mattress?

Once you’ve figured out how to get dog pee smell out of mattress surfaces, it makes sense to protect your bed going forward.

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to act as a barrier between accidents and the mattress core.
  • Keep a basic cleaning kit on hand: towels, white vinegar, baking soda, and a spray bottle.
  • Address accidents right away whenever possible.

These simple steps can make future cleanup much easier and help keep your mattress fresher for longer.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to get dog pee smell out of mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot up as much urine as possible—never rub.
  • Neutralize: Use a 1:1 white vinegar and water solution to help break down odor-causing residues.
  • Deodorize: Cover the area with baking soda, let it sit for several hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Repeat if needed: Old or strong odors may require several cleaning rounds.
  • Avoid oversoaking: Mattresses can trap moisture; keep liquids moderate and focus on thorough drying.
  • Help it dry: Use ventilation and fans; ensure the mattress is completely dry before making the bed.
  • Protect for the future: A waterproof mattress protector helps stop pee from reaching the mattress core.

With a calm, step-by-step approach, most dog urine smells on mattresses can be significantly reduced or removed, helping you restore a fresher, more comfortable sleep surface.