How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress When Wet: Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress When Wet,” you’re probably dealing with a fresh accident and want to stop stains and smells before they set in. This guide walks you through what to do right away, what to avoid, and how to handle lingering odor in a calm, practical way.

What Should I Do First When Pee Is Still Wet on the Mattress?

When urine is still wet, speed matters. Fresh moisture is much easier to remove than dried, set-in stains.

  1. Strip the bed immediately
    Remove sheets, mattress protectors, and blankets so the liquid doesn’t spread.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels to press firmly into the wet spot.

    • Work from the outside of the stain inward to keep it from spreading.
    • Replace towels as they become saturated.
  3. Avoid harsh scrubbing
    Rubbing can push urine deeper into the mattress layers and damage delicate fabrics.

What Cleaning Solution Works Best for Fresh Urine?

For most mattresses, a simple, gentle solution is enough. Always check your mattress care tag before using liquids.

DIY solution for fresh urine

Mix in a spray bottle:

  • 1 part white vinegar
  • 2 parts cool water
  • A small amount of mild liquid soap (optional)

Then:

  1. Lightly spray the affected area. It should be damp, not soaked.
  2. Let the solution sit for 5–10 minutes to help break down the urine.
  3. Blot again with clean towels to pull moisture back out.

Vinegar has a naturally strong smell at first, but it usually fades as the mattress dries.

How Do I Remove Odor After Cleaning the Wet Urine?

Even after you’ve cleaned the moisture, odor can linger. A common way to handle this is with baking soda.

  1. Cover the area with dry baking soda
    Sprinkle a generous layer directly over the damp spot.
  2. Leave it on for at least 8–10 hours
    Many people leave baking soda overnight to give it time to absorb odors and remaining moisture.
  3. Vacuum thoroughly
    Use an upholstery attachment if you have one and go over the area slowly.

If odor remains, you can repeat the baking soda step a second time.

Can I Use Enzyme Cleaners on a Wet Urine Stain?

Many people use enzyme-based cleaners made for urine because they are designed to break down the components that cause odor.

  • Always test a small, hidden spot first to make sure the cleaner does not discolor the fabric.
  • Follow the product directions carefully, especially the recommended soak time and drying method.
  • Avoid combining enzyme cleaners with strong disinfectants or high-chemical cleaners, as they can reduce effectiveness.

If you prefer to stick to household items, vinegar and baking soda are common go‑to options, but enzyme cleaners are often used for more stubborn odors.

How Do I Help the Mattress Dry Properly?

Once you’ve followed the steps for How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress When Wet, proper drying helps prevent musty smells.

  • Increase airflow: Open windows, turn on fans, and if possible, position a fan to blow across the wet area.
  • Use indirect sunlight if possible: Light and airflow can help, but avoid leaving foam materials in intense, direct sun for long periods.
  • Avoid sealing in moisture: Do not put sheets, mattress toppers, or covers back on until the mattress is completely dry to the touch.

Drying can take several hours or more, depending on how much liquid was absorbed and the room conditions.

What Common Mistakes Should I Avoid?

When figuring out How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress When Wet, these are frequent problems:

  • Using hot water: Heat can make stains and odors harder to remove. Cool or lukewarm water is usually safer.
  • Over‑soaking the mattress: Too much liquid can sink deep into foam and padding, extending drying time and increasing odor risk.
  • Skipping the blotting step: Going straight to spraying cleaners without removing as much liquid as possible makes cleaning less effective.
  • Ignoring care labels: Some mattress materials are sensitive to certain cleaners, so a quick label check helps prevent damage.

How Can I Prevent Future Pee Stains on a Mattress?

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are ways to limit the impact:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to create a barrier between spills and the mattress.
  • Layer your bedding (for example, protector + fitted sheet + washable pad) so it’s easier to strip and wash.
  • Address accidents quickly whenever you can; fresh spots are much easier to fix than dried ones.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Get Pee Out Of a Mattress When Wet:

  • Act fast: Strip the bed and blot thoroughly before adding any liquid cleaners.
  • Use gentle solutions: A mix of vinegar and water is commonly used for fresh urine stains.
  • Target odors:Baking soda over the cleaned, damp area helps absorb lingering smells and moisture.
  • Dry completely: Good airflow and time are essential so moisture doesn’t stay trapped in the mattress.
  • Avoid harsh methods: No hot water, heavy scrubbing, or over‑soaking; these can worsen stains and damage materials.
  • Think prevention: Protective covers and quick response to future accidents help keep the mattress fresher longer.

With prompt action and the right steps, you can usually manage a fresh urine accident and keep your mattress comfortable and usable.