How To Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress: Practical Steps That Work

If you’re searching for “How To Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering odor that won’t go away. This guide walks through simple, effective methods to remove urine smell from a mattress, prevent stains, and protect your bed in the future.

Why Does Pee Smell Linger in a Mattress?

Urine can soak deep into mattress layers, especially foam or pillow-top styles. Even after surface cleaning, odor-causing residues may remain inside:

  • Uric acid crystals can trap odors
  • Moisture can reach inner layers if not dried properly
  • Heat from your body can “reactivate” smells over time

That’s why quick blotting alone often isn’t enough, and you may still notice a faint smell days later.

First Steps: What To Do Right After an Accident

1. Act quickly

The sooner you start, the easier it is to remove both the stain and the smell.

  1. Strip the bed – Remove sheets, protectors, and blankets.
  2. Blot, don’t rub – Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to press down firmly and absorb as much liquid as possible.
  3. Avoid heat – Do not use a hair dryer or heater directly on the wet spot; heat can set odors and stains.

How To Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress Using Household Ingredients

2. Use a vinegar and water solution

A common at-home approach uses white vinegar:

  1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and cool water in a spray bottle.
  2. Lightly spray the affected area until it is damp but not soaked.
  3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to help break down urine residues.
  4. Blot again with dry towels to remove excess moisture.

Vinegar has a noticeable smell at first, but it usually fades as it dries.

3. Apply baking soda to neutralize odor

After spot-cleaning with vinegar and water:

  1. Generously sprinkle baking soda over the damp area.
  2. Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush.
  3. Let it sit for at least 8 hours, or overnight if possible, so it can absorb odor and moisture.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment to remove all the powder.

If a faint smell remains, many people find a second round of baking soda helpful.

What About Old or Dried Pee Smells?

Older stains and smells can be more stubborn because they’ve had time to set into deeper layers.

4. Rehydrate, then treat

For dried spots:

  1. Lightly mist the area with plain water to re-dampen the stain.
  2. Follow with the vinegar and water solution, then blot.
  3. Finish with baking soda and an extended drying period.

This process can sometimes draw out odors that seemed “baked in.”

Can Enzymatic Cleaners Help?

Enzymatic cleaners are commonly used on urine because they are formulated to break down organic residues left behind in fabrics and upholstery.

  • They are often used for pet accidents and can also be used carefully on many mattress types.
  • Always check your mattress care instructions and test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.
  • Follow the product’s directions for soak time and blotting, then allow thorough drying.

These cleaners can be especially useful for recurring or strong pee smells that don’t respond fully to vinegar and baking soda alone.

How Do I Make Sure the Mattress Dries Completely?

Leftover moisture can lead to musty odors and make pee smells worse.

Helpful drying tips:

  • Increase airflow: Open windows, turn on fans, and aim them at the mattress.
  • Use indirect sunlight if possible: Natural light in a well-ventilated room can help with odor.
  • Avoid sleeping on the damp area: Wait until the mattress feels fully dry to the touch.

If the mattress feels cool and slightly clammy, it likely needs more time to dry.

How To Prevent Future Pee Smells in Your Mattress

Once you’ve figured out how to get pee smell out of a mattress, it’s worth taking steps to prevent the problem from returning:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to block liquids from soaking in.
  • Wash bedding promptly after accidents.
  • Spot-check for dampness if you suspect a nighttime accident, even if there’s no obvious stain.
  • Regularly air out your mattress by stripping bedding and letting it breathe.

These simple habits can make future cleanups faster and more effective.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about How To Get Pee Smell Out Of a Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot up as much urine as you can before it soaks in.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A mix of white vinegar and water followed by baking soda is a widely used home method for odor removal.
  • Let treatments sit: Give vinegar time to work and baking soda several hours (or overnight) to absorb smells.
  • Vacuum thoroughly: Removing all baking soda helps prevent residue and reveals whether odor remains.
  • Re-treat old stains: Lightly re-dampen dried pee spots before cleaning to help lift deeper odors.
  • Dry completely: Good airflow and patience are essential so moisture doesn’t get trapped inside the mattress.
  • Protect the mattress: A waterproof protector and prompt cleanup after accidents can greatly reduce future urine smells.

With a calm, step-by-step approach and a bit of patience, you can usually remove or significantly reduce pee smell in a mattress and keep your sleep surface fresher and more comfortable.