How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell On Mattress: Step‑By‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for how to get rid of cat urine smell on mattress, you’re likely dealing with a stubborn, lingering odor and maybe a fresh stain. This guide walks through exactly what to do, what to avoid, and how to prevent it from happening again.

Why Does Cat Urine Smell So Strong on a Mattress?

Cat urine contains urea, ammonia, and other compounds that can leave a strong smell, especially once it dries. On a mattress, liquid can:

  • Soak below the surface fabric
  • Spread out in a wide area
  • Linger long after the stain looks “gone”

That’s why acting quickly and using the right cleaning method matters.

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

1. Blot, Don’t Rub

Use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly, but don’t scrub, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

2. Separate Bedding From Mattress

Remove all bedding and wash it separately in warm water with regular detergent. If the smell remains, a second wash with a gentle odor-removing booster can help.

How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell On Mattress: Step‑By‑Step

Here’s a simple home method many people use for fresh or lightly set-in stains.

1. Apply a Vinegar Solution

Mix a solution of about half white vinegar and half water. Lightly spray or pour enough to cover the affected area without soaking the entire mattress.

  • Vinegar helps neutralize odors
  • Gently work it in with a cloth or soft brush
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes

Blot again to remove excess moisture.

2. Use Baking Soda for Odor Control

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.

  • Leave it on for several hours, or ideally overnight
  • Baking soda helps absorb moisture and smells

When it’s dry, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly.

3. Consider an Enzymatic Cleaner

For strong or older smells, many pet owners use a pet-specific enzymatic cleaner. These products are designed to break down urine compounds that cause lingering odor.

  • Follow the instructions on the label
  • Allow plenty of time for it to work and dry completely

How Do I Handle Old or Dried Cat Urine Stains?

Old stains can be more stubborn because the urine has already dried into the foam or padding.

  1. Locate the full area: Shine a flashlight or gently sniff around to find all affected spots.
  2. Repeat the vinegar and baking soda process: You may need to treat the area more than once.
  3. Use an enzymatic cleaner after the initial DIY treatment if odor persists.

If the smell remains even after multiple attempts, the urine may have penetrated deeply into the mattress core, which can be harder to treat.

Are There Any Cleaning Methods I Should Avoid?

Yes. To protect your mattress:

  • Avoid steam cleaning: Heat can set the urine odor into the foam.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach: These can damage fabric and may leave strong odors of their own.
  • Avoid oversaturating the mattress: Too much liquid can lead to slow drying and possible musty smells.

Stick to gentle, targeted cleaning and allow plenty of drying time.

How Long Will It Take the Smell to Go Away?

Drying and odor removal can take a full day or longer, depending on:

  • How much urine was absorbed
  • The thickness of your mattress
  • Room temperature and airflow

Speed things up by:

  • Opening windows or using a fan
  • Letting the mattress dry completely before putting bedding back on
  • Repeating the treatment if a light odor remains after drying

Can Cat Urine Smell on a Mattress Become Permanent?

If not treated, cat urine smell can seem permanent, but often it can be significantly reduced or removed with:

  • Prompt blotting
  • Vinegar and baking soda
  • Enzymatic cleaners
  • Repeated treatments, if necessary

In some severe cases—especially with many repeated accidents—the odor may remain in the deepest layers of the mattress. At that point, some people consider whether replacement makes more sense than continued cleaning.

How Can I Prevent Future Cat Accidents on the Mattress?

While behavior and health questions should be discussed with a professional, you can protect your mattress by:

  • Using a waterproof mattress protector
  • Cleaning accidents as soon as you notice them
  • Keeping the bedroom door closed if accidents are frequent

A protector can help keep future spills and accidents on the surface, where they’re easier to clean.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points on how to get rid of cat urine smell on mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot urine immediately; don’t rub it in.
  • Use a vinegar solution: Helps neutralize odor in fresh and recent stains.
  • Add baking soda: Let it sit and then vacuum to absorb smells and moisture.
  • Try enzymatic cleaners for tough stains: Especially helpful for dried or strong odors.
  • Avoid steam and harsh chemicals: They can set smells or damage the mattress.
  • Let it dry fully: Good airflow and time are essential before remaking the bed.
  • Protect for the future: A waterproof mattress protector can make future cleanups easier.

With a calm, methodical approach and the right products, you can usually greatly reduce or eliminate cat urine smell from your mattress and keep your sleep surface fresher and more comfortable.