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

If you’re searching for “How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress Pad”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident, a lingering smell, or a yellow stain that won’t go away. This guide walks you through what to do right away, how to deep clean, and how to handle tough odors calmly and effectively.

What’s the Best First Step When Pee Gets on a Mattress Pad?

Act quickly. The faster you respond, the less the urine can soak in and set.

  1. Remove bedding and the pad
    Strip off sheets, blankets, and any removable mattress pad or cover.

    • If the pad is machine-washable, check the care tag and set it aside for washing.
    • If it’s not washable or has thick foam, follow the deep-cleaning steps below.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly; avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the material.

  3. Separate the pad from the mattress
    If possible, move the pad off the mattress so the mattress doesn’t absorb more moisture.

How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress Pad: Step‑by‑Step Cleaning

The core of how to get pee out of a mattress pad is a mix of blotting, gentle cleaners, and thorough drying.

Step 1: Blot and Pre‑Treat

  • After initial blotting, lightly dampen the stained area with cool water.
  • Blot again to lift more urine from the fibers or foam.
  • Avoid hot water at this stage; it can make some stains more stubborn.

Step 2: Use a Mild Cleaning Solution

For many mattress pads, a simple homemade solution works well:

  • Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent with cool water.
  • Lightly apply to the stain using a clean cloth or spray bottle.
  • Gently dab and press; avoid soaking the pad, especially if it’s foam.

For lingering odor, many people also use:

  • A mixture of white vinegar and water (often about equal parts) lightly sprayed over the area, then blotted. Vinegar has a strong smell at first but usually fades as it dries.

Step 3: Deodorize With Baking Soda

Once you’ve cleaned the area:

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp spot.
  2. Let it sit for several hours, or ideally overnight.
  3. Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly once dry.

Baking soda helps absorb both moisture and odor, which is important when learning how to get pee out of a mattress pad effectively.

Can I Put My Mattress Pad in the Washing Machine?

It depends on the type of pad. Always check the care label first.

Common Guidelines

  • Machine‑washable quilted pads or covers

    • Wash on a gentle or delicate cycle with cool or warm water.
    • Use a mild detergent.
    • Avoid bleach unless the tag clearly says it’s safe.

  • Foam or memory foam pads

    • Usually not machine‑washable. Submerging foam can damage it or make it hard to dry completely.
    • Instead, spot clean, deodorize, and air dry thoroughly.

Never skip the drying step; a pad that stays damp inside can develop unpleasant odors over time.

How Do I Get Rid of Pee Smell That Won’t Go Away?

Sometimes, even after surface cleaning, a urine smell lingers. This usually means some moisture or residue remains.

To tackle stubborn odors:

  • Repeat the vinegar-and-water treatment
    Lightly mist the area again, let it sit briefly, and blot.

  • Apply a fresh layer of baking soda
    Let it sit for a longer period (up to 24 hours) before vacuuming.

  • Allow extended air drying
    Place the pad in a well‑ventilated area, preferably with moving air (like a fan). Sunlight on the cover (if safe per care tag) may also help freshen it.

If repeated cleaning does not remove the odor, it can be a sign that the urine soaked deeply into the material and has set over time.

How Long Should a Mattress Pad Take to Dry?

Drying time depends on the thickness and material:

  • Thin, quilted pads: often a few hours to overnight in a ventilated room.
  • Thick or foam pads: may need 24 hours or more to dry completely.

To speed up drying:

  • Place the pad in a warm, airy space.
  • Use a fan to keep air moving.
  • Avoid very high heat from dryers if the care label warns against it, as it can damage fillings or foam.

The pad should feel completely dry to the touch on both sides before putting it back on your bed.

How Can I Prevent Future Pee Stains on My Mattress Pad?

While accidents can happen, a few habits can make cleanup easier:

  • Use a waterproof layer between your mattress and mattress pad.
  • Wash removable covers regularly, especially after any spill.
  • Address accidents as soon as you notice them so they don’t set in.

These steps do not eliminate the chance of stains, but they often limit how deeply liquids can soak in.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to get pee out of a mattress pad

  • Act fast: Strip bedding and blot up as much urine as possible right away.
  • Spot clean first: Use cool water and mild detergent; avoid soaking foam pads.
  • Deodorize: Vinegar-and-water solutions and baking soda are common odor‑removal options.
  • Check the care tag: Some pads are machine‑washable; foam pads usually are not.
  • Dry thoroughly: Ensure the pad is fully dry, inside and out, before using it again.
  • Repeat if needed: Persistent stains or odors may need more than one cleaning session.

With these steps, how to get pee out of a mattress pad becomes a manageable process rather than a crisis, helping you keep your sleep surface fresher and more comfortable.