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

If you’re searching for “How To Get Dried Urine Out Of a Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with an old stain, a stubborn odor, or both. This guide explains exactly how to clean dried urine from a mattress, what to avoid, and how to protect your bed going forward.

What happens when urine dries in a mattress?

When urine dries, it leaves behind uric acid crystals, salts, and organic residue that can:

  • Cause yellow or darker stains
  • Create a persistent ammonia-like odor
  • Attract moisture and make the area feel slightly damp over time

Because mattresses are thick and absorbent, dried urine can sink deep below the surface. That’s why a quick wipe rarely solves the problem, and a deeper cleaning method is usually needed.

How To Get Dried Urine Out Of a Mattress: The Core Cleaning Method

What is the simplest home method for dried urine stains?

Here’s a commonly used, mattress-safe approach using basic household ingredients.

You’ll need:

  • Clean, dry cloths or paper towels
  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Mild liquid dish soap
  • Spray bottle
  • Vacuum with upholstery attachment

Step‑by‑step:

  1. Blot the area (even if it’s dry)

    • Press with a dry cloth to lift any remaining moisture.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push residue deeper into the mattress.

  2. Apply a vinegar solution

    • Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water, plus a few drops of mild dish soap.
    • Lightly spray the stained area until it’s damp but not soaked.
    • Vinegar helps break down urine residues and reduce odor.

  3. Let it sit

    • Leave the solution on the stain for 10–15 minutes.
    • This contact time helps loosen dried uric crystals inside the mattress fibers.

  4. Blot again thoroughly

    • Blot with clean, dry cloths to remove as much liquid as possible.
    • The more moisture you pull out, the faster the mattress will dry.

  5. Cover with baking soda

    • Sprinkle a generous, even layer of baking soda over the treated area.
    • Baking soda helps absorb moisture and neutralize lingering odor.

  6. Let it dry completely

    • Leave the baking soda on for several hours or overnight.
    • Good airflow (open windows, fan) can speed up drying.

  7. Vacuum the mattress

    • Once fully dry, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly.
    • Check the area: if a stain or odor remains, you can repeat the process.

What if the urine stain is very old or stubborn?

Can I repeat the cleaning process?

Yes. Deep, older stains often need more than one round of cleaning. Repeating the vinegar and baking soda steps can gradually lighten stains and reduce odors without harsh chemicals.

Are stronger cleaners ever needed?

Some people use enzyme-based cleaners designed to break down urine and other organic stains. These can be helpful for stubborn odors, but always:

  • Test on a small, hidden patch of the mattress first
  • Follow the label directions carefully
  • Avoid over-soaking the mattress

If you’re concerned about damaging the fabric or foams, a professional upholstery or mattress cleaner may be an option.

Will the smell go away completely?

Odors from dried urine can be persistent, especially if the stain has been there for a long time. Common reasons smell lingers:

  • Urine soaked deep into inner layers of the mattress
  • The area wasn’t fully dried after cleaning
  • Only the surface was treated

If mild odor remains:

  • Repeat the vinegar and baking soda treatment
  • Allow plenty of airflow and drying time
  • Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the area again, let sit for a few hours, then vacuum

Deep or long-term odor may not disappear entirely, but careful, repeated cleaning often improves it significantly.

Is it safe to use hydrogen peroxide or bleach on a mattress?

Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used on light-colored fabrics to help lift yellowing. On mattresses, it can:

  • Lighten some stains
  • Potentially bleach fabric or affect dyes
  • Dry out certain materials if overused

If you decide to try it:

  • Use a low concentration
  • Spot-test a small, hidden area first
  • Apply sparingly with a cloth, not by soaking

Bleach

Bleach is generally not recommended for mattresses because it can:

  • Weaken or discolor fabrics
  • Leave strong, lingering odors
  • Be harsh on certain foams or materials

For most people asking “How To Get Dried Urine Out Of a Mattress,” gentle cleaners like vinegar, baking soda, and appropriate enzyme solutions are safer choices.

How can I prevent future urine stains on my mattress?

After you’ve removed dried urine from a mattress, it helps to protect it from new accidents:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector that fully covers the sleep surface
  • Wash bedding promptly after any accident
  • For small spills, blot immediately and avoid rubbing
  • Allow the mattress to fully dry before making the bed again

These habits can make future cleanups much easier and help your mattress stay fresh longer.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about How To Get Dried Urine Out Of a Mattress:

  • Act even on old stains: Dried urine can often be improved with patient, repeated cleaning.
  • Use a gentle method first: A mix of white vinegar, water, and mild soap, followed by baking soda, is a common, mattress-safe approach.
  • Avoid over-soaking: Mattresses dry slowly; too much liquid can lead to lingering moisture and odor.
  • Stubborn odors may need extra help: Multiple cleanings or enzyme-based cleaners are sometimes used for deep-set smells.
  • Protect your mattress afterward: A washable, waterproof protector greatly reduces future staining and makes cleanup simpler.

With a bit of time and the right technique, it’s often possible to significantly reduce both stains and odors when you’re tackling the problem of how to get dried urine out of a mattress.