How To Get Rid Of Pee Stain On Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Work
If you’re searching for “How To Get Rid Of Pee Stain On Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an old yellow stain that just won’t go away. This guide walks you through what to do step by step, plus answers common questions about odor, drying times, and what to avoid so you don’t damage your mattress.
What’s The Best Way To Get Rid Of A Fresh Pee Stain On A Mattress?
For fresh accidents, acting quickly is the most important step. The faster you move, the less likely the stain and smell will set into the mattress.
Step-by-step method for fresh stains:
Blot, don’t rub
Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to blot up as much liquid as possible. Press firmly to absorb; avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the foam or padding.Apply a mild cleaning solution
Mix a simple solution in a spray bottle:- Cool water
- A small amount of gentle liquid soap or mild detergent
Lightly spray the stained area until it’s damp (not soaked), then blot again with a clean cloth. This helps lift the urine from the mattress surface.
Use a vinegar solution to tackle odor
A common home method is a mixture of:- 1 part white vinegar
- 2–3 parts water
Spray the affected area, let it sit for about 5–10 minutes, then blot thoroughly. Vinegar helps neutralize lingering smell without harsh chemicals.
Apply baking soda and let it sit
Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area. Leave it on for several hours, ideally overnight. Baking soda can help absorb odors and remaining moisture.Vacuum the baking soda
Once fully dry, vacuum the mattress to remove the baking soda. Check the spot; repeat the process if there’s still a noticeable smell.
How Do You Clean Dried Or Old Pee Stains On A Mattress?
Dried urine stains can be more stubborn and may require more than one cleaning round.
Can I Use The Same Method For Dried Stains?
Yes, but you may need to let your solution sit longer.
Lightly re-dampen the stain
Mist the area with water to help loosen the dried residue. Don’t soak the mattress.Use a vinegar-based mix
Apply the same vinegar and water solution and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This can help break down the dried stain.Blot thoroughly
Press with clean cloths to remove as much moisture as possible.Add baking soda again
Cover with baking soda and leave it on for several hours before vacuuming.Repeat if needed
Older stains may take multiple treatments to noticeably fade and smell fresher.
How Can I Get Rid Of Pee Smell From A Mattress?
Even if the stain looks lighter, odor can linger. To focus on smell:
- Use vinegar solution for odor neutralizing.
- Use baking soda generously and leave it for a long period, sometimes up to 24 hours.
- Make sure the mattress dries completely, ideally in a well-ventilated room.
If the smell remains strong after several attempts, it can mean urine has soaked deep into thick foam or multiple layers. In those cases, complete odor removal can be harder and may not be perfect.
What Should I Avoid When Cleaning Pee Stains?
Certain cleaning habits and products can do more harm than good:
- Avoid soaking the mattress. Too much liquid can seep deep inside and be slow to dry, leading to persistent odors.
- Avoid strong bleach or harsh chemicals. These can discolor fabrics or damage foam and covers.
- Avoid heavy scrubbing. Rubbing can spread the stain and push it deeper.
- Avoid using very hot water. Warm or cool water is usually safer for both fabric and foam.
How Long Does It Take A Mattress To Dry After Cleaning?
Drying time depends on how much liquid was used and room conditions, but many mattresses take several hours to fully dry. For best results:
- Keep the mattress in a well-ventilated room.
- Use a fan to speed up airflow.
- Wait until the mattress is completely dry before putting sheets back on, to avoid trapping moisture.
Can I Prevent Future Pee Stains On My Mattress?
You can’t always prevent accidents, but you can limit damage:
- Use a water-resistant mattress protector as a barrier between the sheet and mattress.
- Clean up accidents as soon as you notice them to reduce staining and odor.
- Keep extra bedding on hand so you can strip the bed quickly and deal with the mattress right away.
✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways
Key points about How To Get Rid Of Pee Stain On Mattress:
- Act fast on fresh stains: Blot, don’t rub, to prevent spreading and deep soaking.
- Use simple solutions: Cool water, a mild detergent, a vinegar mix, and baking soda are often enough.
- Dried stains need patience: Re-dampen, treat, and repeat; older stains may not disappear in one round.
- Odor control matters: Vinegar and baking soda, plus thorough drying, are important for tackling smell.
- Protect your mattress: A barrier layer and quick cleanup can make future accidents easier to handle.
Handled calmly and methodically, even stubborn urine stains can often be reduced significantly, and your mattress can feel fresher and more comfortable again.

