How To Get Pee Off Of a Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work

If you’re searching for “How To Get Pee Off Of a Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering urine stain and smell. The good news is that most pee stains can be treated at home with common household ingredients if you act carefully and follow the right steps.

Below you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about cleaning pee off a mattress, removing odors, and helping prevent long-term damage.

What’s the First Thing I Should Do When Pee Gets On a Mattress?

Act quickly, but gently. Pee can soak deep into foam and fabric, so the faster you respond, the better your chances of fully removing it.

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove sheets, mattress protectors, and covers right away and set them aside for washing.

  2. Blot, don’t scrub
    Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels to blot up as much urine as possible. Press firmly, lift, and repeat.
    Scrubbing can push the liquid deeper into the mattress.

  3. Keep the area from spreading
    Work from the outside of the wet spot toward the center so the stain doesn’t spread.

How To Get Pee Off Of a Mattress (Step-by-Step)

This basic method works for many fresh pee accidents.

1. Mix a gentle cleaning solution

In a spray bottle, combine:

  • About half white vinegar and half water
  • Optional: a small amount of mild dish soap

Vinegar helps break down urine components and reduce odor without harsh chemicals.

2. Lightly soak the stained area

  • Spray the solution generously over the stained area, but do not drench the entire mattress.
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so it can work into the surface.

3. Blot again

  • Use clean, dry towels to blot out the moisture.
  • Replace towels as they become damp and continue until you’ve removed as much liquid as you can.

4. Apply baking soda

  • Sprinkle a thick, even layer of baking soda over the damp spot.
  • Gently press it in with your hand to help it reach the surface fibers.

Baking soda helps absorb remaining moisture and neutralize lingering odors.

5. Let it sit, then vacuum

  • Allow the baking soda to sit for at least several hours, preferably overnight, until completely dry.
  • Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove all baking soda residue.

If the odor or stain remains, you can repeat the process once or twice.

What If the Pee Has Dried or Left a Stain?

Dried pee can leave yellowish marks and stubborn smells. The steps above still help, but you may need to treat the area more than once.

For dried stains:

  • Lightly mist the area with the vinegar-and-water solution to re-dampen it.
  • Follow the blot → baking soda → dry → vacuum process again.
  • Be patient: older stains often require repeated treatments.

For strong odors:

Some people use enzymatic cleaners designed to break down urine compounds. If you choose this route, always:

  • Test it on a small, hidden area first.
  • Follow the label directions carefully.
  • Avoid mixing different cleaners at the same time.

Will Cleaning Pee Ruin My Mattress?

Cleaning urine off a mattress does not automatically ruin it, but a few mistakes can cause issues:

  • Over-soaking the mattress can trap moisture deep inside, leading to persistent odors or material damage.
  • Using harsh chemicals may discolor fabrics or affect foam.
  • Not allowing full drying time can leave the mattress damp inside, which is not ideal.

To protect your mattress:

  • Use moderate amounts of liquid during cleaning.
  • Make sure the mattress dries completely before putting bedding back on.
  • If possible, increase airflow with fans or open windows while it dries.

Can I Use Bleach or Strong Household Cleaners?

It’s generally not recommended to use bleach or very strong cleaners on a mattress:

  • They can discolor fabrics.
  • Some may be too harsh for mattress materials.
  • Residue left behind can be irritating for some sleepers.

Milder solutions like diluted vinegar, mild soap, and baking soda are usually enough for typical pee accidents.

How Can I Prevent Future Pee Stains?

While accidents happen, a few simple steps can make them much easier to handle:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to create a barrier between the mattress and bedding.
  • Choose washable mattress covers or pads that can go directly into the washing machine.
  • Clean up accidents as soon as you notice them, before they fully dry.

These measures help keep liquids on washable layers and off the mattress itself.

How Long Does It Take for a Mattress to Dry After Cleaning?

Drying time depends on:

  • How much liquid was used
  • Mattress thickness and materials
  • Room temperature and airflow

As a general guideline:

  • Plan for several hours of drying time.
  • For deeper cleanings, overnight drying is often safer.
  • The mattress should feel dry to the touch across the entire cleaned area before you remake the bed.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Get Pee Off Of a Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot up fresh pee right away to limit how deep it soaks in.
  • Blot, don’t scrub: Scrubbing can spread and push urine deeper into the mattress.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A mix of water, white vinegar, and a little mild soap is often enough.
  • Baking soda is your friend: It helps draw out moisture and reduce lingering odors.
  • Avoid over-wetting: Too much liquid can extend drying time and trap smells.
  • Let it fully dry: Always allow several hours, or overnight if needed, before remaking the bed.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or stronger stains may require more than one cleaning round.
  • Protect going forward: Waterproof protectors and washable covers make future cleanups easier.

With prompt attention and the right approach, How To Get Pee Off Of a Mattress usually comes down to simple, careful cleaning steps and plenty of drying time.