How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell In Mattress: Practical FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell In Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering smell that just won’t go away. This guide walks through what to do step by step, plus answers to the most common questions about cleaning cat pee from a mattress and removing the odor for good.

Why Does Cat Urine Smell So Strong in a Mattress?

Cat urine contains urea, uric acid, and strong-smelling compounds that can soak deep into mattress layers. When it dries, it can leave behind crystals that continue to release odor, especially in warm or humid conditions.

A mattress is thick and absorbent, so if a spill isn’t cleaned quickly or thoroughly, the smell can linger even after the surface looks dry.

First Steps: What Should I Do Right After My Cat Pees on the Bed?

Acting quickly is one of the most effective ways to handle How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell In Mattress problems.

  1. Blot, don’t rub

    • Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels.
    • Press down firmly to soak up as much urine as possible.
    • Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain deeper.

  2. Remove bedding immediately

    • Strip sheets, blankets, and protectors.
    • Launder them separately, using an enzyme-based detergent if available, to help break down odors.

  3. Check how deep the stain went

    • Gently press on the wet area.
    • If it feels very saturated, you may need to repeat the blotting step several times.

How Do I Clean Cat Urine from a Mattress at Home?

Here’s a commonly used, simple method that relies on household ingredients.

Step-by-step cleaning process

  1. Blot the area thoroughly

    • Get the mattress as dry as possible first. This reduces how much cleaning solution gets absorbed.

  2. Apply a vinegar solution

    • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
    • Lightly pour or spray enough to cover the stained area without soaking the entire mattress.
    • Vinegar helps neutralize odors and break down some of the urine components.

  3. Let it sit

    • Allow the solution to sit for 10–15 minutes.
    • Blot again to remove excess moisture.

  4. Cover with baking soda

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
    • Baking soda is often used to help absorb moisture and odors from porous surfaces.

  5. Optional: Add a gentle cleaning mix

    • Some people mix a small amount of mild dish soap with water and lightly dab it on the area before baking soda, but be cautious not to over-wet the mattress.

  6. Let it dry completely

    • This can take several hours or even overnight.
    • If possible, open windows, use a fan, or move the mattress to a well-ventilated area.

  7. Vacuum the baking soda

    • Once fully dry, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly.
    • Check for any remaining smell and repeat the process if needed.

What If the Cat Urine Smell Is Old or Very Strong?

Dried, older stains can be more stubborn.

Dealing with dried cat urine

  • Rehydrate the area lightly with the vinegar-and-water solution to help loosen dried residue.
  • Follow the same vinegar + baking soda routine, possibly repeating more than once.
  • Consider using a specialized enzyme cleaner designed for pet stains, which is commonly used to help break down odor-causing compounds. Always test a small, hidden spot first to check for discoloration.

If the smell continues after several careful attempts, odor may have reached deep layers of the mattress that are difficult to fully access from the surface.

Can Cat Urine Damage My Mattress?

Cat urine can:

  • Leave permanent yellowish stains.
  • Cause persistent odors if not cleaned thoroughly.
  • Potentially weaken or discolor some mattress materials over time if accidents happen repeatedly.

This is why many sleepers choose to use waterproof mattress protectors to create a barrier between spills and the mattress core.

How Do I Keep My Cat from Peeing on the Mattress Again?

While this guide focuses on How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell In Mattress, preventing repeat accidents is just as important:

  • Clean thoroughly: Cats may return to areas where they still detect a urine smell. Reducing the odor can help discourage repeat marking.
  • Wash bedding well: Treat and wash all linens so no scent remains.
  • Protect the mattress: Use a removable, washable protector to make any future cleanups easier.
  • Observe your cat: Changes in litter habits can have various causes, ranging from stress to environmental changes. If the behavior continues, consider seeking guidance from a qualified pet professional.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell In Mattress:

  • Act fast:

    • Blot up fresh urine immediately.
    • Strip and wash all bedding.

  • Use simple cleaners:

    • Vinegar-and-water solution can help neutralize odors.
    • Baking soda is often used to absorb moisture and smell.

  • Dry thoroughly:

    • Let the mattress dry completely before using it again.
    • Use airflow and time to your advantage.

  • Repeat if needed:

    • Older or heavy stains may need multiple treatments.
    • Enzyme-based cleaners are commonly used for stubborn pet odors.

  • Think prevention:

    • A waterproof mattress protector makes cleanup much easier.
    • Reducing lingering odor can help discourage repeat accidents.

Handled patiently and step by step, many people find it possible to significantly reduce or remove cat urine smell from a mattress and restore a fresher, more comfortable sleep surface.