How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell From Mattress: Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell From Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering odor that just won’t go away. Cat urine can be stubborn, but with the right approach you can usually remove both the stain and the smell without damaging your mattress.

Below you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about cat pee on mattresses and how to handle it safely and effectively.

Why Is Cat Pee Smell So Hard To Remove From a Mattress?

Cat urine contains uric acid crystals and strong-smelling compounds that can soak deep into mattress layers. When it dries, the odor can intensify or return whenever the area gets damp again.

On a mattress, this is especially tricky because:

  • Foam and padding are porous and absorb liquids quickly
  • You can’t just throw a mattress in the washing machine
  • Harsh cleaners can damage the materials or leave their own smells

That’s why acting quickly and using the right method is important when figuring out How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell From Mattress surfaces.

What Should I Do First When My Cat Pees on the Mattress?

1. Blot, Don’t Rub

Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly to draw urine out of the mattress, but avoid scrubbing, which pushes it deeper.

2. Check How Deep It Went

Gently press the area to see if it still feels wet:

  • If it’s only on the surface, cleanup is easier
  • If it feels damp deeper down, you’ll need more soaking and more drying time

How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell From Mattress: At-Home Method

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

Step 1: Apply a Vinegar Cleaning Solution

Mix a solution of:

  • 1 part white vinegar
  • 1–2 parts water

Lightly test the solution on a small, hidden area first to check for discoloration.

Then:

  1. Pour or spray enough solution to fully soak the stained area (but not the entire mattress).
  2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to help break down odor-causing components.
  3. Blot thoroughly with towels to remove as much liquid as possible.

Vinegar helps neutralize odors and can loosen dried urine, but it will have its own temporary smell that usually fades as it dries.

Step 2: Use Baking Soda for Odor Absorption

Once you’ve blotted out the vinegar solution:

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
  2. Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush.
  3. Leave it for several hours, ideally overnight, so it can absorb moisture and odor.

Baking soda is often used on mattresses because it absorbs smells without harsh chemicals.

Step 3: Vacuum Thoroughly

When the baking soda is completely dry:

  • Vacuum it up using the upholstery attachment
  • Go over the area several times to remove all residue

After vacuuming, smell the area. If any odor remains, you can repeat the vinegar and baking soda steps once more.

Can I Use Enzyme Cleaners on a Mattress?

Many cat owners use enzyme-based cleaners specifically made for pet urine. These are designed to break down the organic compounds in cat pee, including uric acid crystals.

If you choose to use one:

  • Read the label to ensure it’s safe for fabric and foam
  • Follow the directions carefully, especially for soak time and drying
  • Avoid over-saturating the mattress; too much liquid can lead to lingering dampness

Enzyme cleaners are often used when the smell persists after basic cleaning, or if the accident was old by the time you noticed it.

How Do I Dry the Mattress Properly?

Drying is just as important as cleaning when working on How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell From Mattress surfaces.

To dry safely:

  • Increase airflow with fans or open windows
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side to help moisture escape
  • Avoid direct high heat (like hair dryers on full power) that may damage materials

The mattress should feel completely dry to the touch and have no dampness deep inside before you put sheets back on. This can take 24 hours or more depending on how saturated it was.

What If the Smell Won’t Go Away?

Persistent odor can happen when:

  • The urine soaked deep into the core of the mattress
  • The stain is old and dried before cleaning
  • Only the surface was treated, not the full affected area

In these cases, you can:

  • Repeat the vinegar + baking soda process
  • Try a carefully applied enzyme cleaner
  • Consider whether the odor is coming from bedding, topper, or mattress protector instead of the mattress itself

If multiple attempts don’t help and the smell is strong, some people choose to limit the use of that side or area of the mattress or replace it, especially if the mattress is already older or worn.

How Can I Stop My Cat From Peeing on the Mattress Again?

While behavior and health reasons are outside the scope of mattress care, you can protect your mattress going forward by:

  • Using a waterproof mattress protector
  • Keeping bedding easy to wash and dry
  • Addressing litter box cleanliness and access so your cat has convenient options

A good protector can make future cleanups much simpler, often limiting accidents to just the bedding.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell From Mattress issues:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to prevent deep soaking.
  • Use gentle cleaners: A vinegar-and-water solution followed by baking soda is a common at-home method.
  • Avoid scrubbing: It can push urine deeper into foam and padding.
  • Let it fully dry: Good airflow and time are essential to avoid trapped moisture and lingering odor.
  • Consider enzyme cleaners: These can help with stubborn or older stains when used correctly.
  • Protect your mattress: A waterproof cover makes future accidents far easier to handle.

Handled promptly and carefully, most cat urine accidents on a mattress can be significantly reduced or fully neutralized, restoring a fresher and more comfortable sleep surface.