How To Get Rid Of Urine Smell On Mattress: Simple, Effective Steps

If you’re searching for “How To Get Rid Of Urine Smell On Mattress,” you probably have a fresh accident, a lingering odor, or an old stain that keeps coming back. This guide explains why urine smells linger, what actually works to remove them, and how to prevent repeat issues—in clear, practical steps.

Why Does Urine Smell Stay in a Mattress?

Mattresses are thick, absorbent, and full of tiny air pockets. When urine soaks in, it can:

  • Penetrate deep into the foam or padding
  • Dry and leave behind uric acid crystals and residues
  • Produce a persistent, sour or ammonia-like odor over time

Simply spraying a fragrance on top usually doesn’t work, because the odor source remains inside the mattress layers. That’s why successful cleaning focuses on soaking, dissolving, and neutralizing those residues.

How To Get Rid Of Urine Smell On Mattress: Step-by-Step

1. Act Quickly (For Fresh Accidents)

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

  1. Blot, don’t rub

    • Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels.
    • Press firmly to pull out as much liquid as possible.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  2. Pre-treat with a mild solution

    • Mix a small amount of gentle liquid soap with cool water.
    • Lightly dab the area to break up surface residue.
    • Blot again with dry towels.

2. Use Vinegar to Neutralize Odor

White vinegar is commonly used because it helps break down urine deposits and reduce odor.

  1. Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
  2. Lightly spray or dab the affected area—avoid soaking the entire mattress.
  3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
  4. Blot thoroughly with dry towels to remove excess moisture.

Vinegar has its own strong smell, but this usually fades as it dries.

3. Follow With Baking Soda for Deep Odor Control

Baking soda is often used to absorb odors from fabrics and soft surfaces.

  1. Once the mattress is still damp but not soaked, sprinkle baking soda generously over the spot.
  2. Gently spread it around so it covers slightly beyond the affected area.
  3. Leave it on for at least several hours, preferably overnight, to absorb moisture and odor.
  4. Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove all the baking soda powder.

For many people, this combined vinegar + baking soda approach noticeably reduces or removes urine odor from a mattress.

What If the Urine Smell Is Old or Very Strong?

Dried or older urine can be more stubborn because it has had more time to soak in and set.

Can I Still Use Home Methods?

You can repeat the vinegar and baking soda cycle:

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area with vinegar solution.
  2. Let it sit, then apply baking soda again.
  3. Allow a longer drying time before vacuuming.

Multiple rounds may be needed for older, deeper odors.

When Should I Consider Professional Cleaning?

Some situations are more difficult to handle at home, such as:

  • Repeated accidents in the same spot
  • Very heavy saturation through multiple mattress layers
  • Mattresses that stay damp for too long after home cleaning

In these cases, professional upholstery or mattress cleaning may offer more thorough extraction than home methods.

Is It Safe to Use Bleach or Harsh Chemicals?

Using bleach directly on a mattress is generally not recommended because it can:

  • Discolor or damage mattress materials
  • Leave strong, lingering fumes
  • Be difficult to fully rinse out from thick foam layers

Gentler solutions (like water, mild soap, vinegar, and baking soda) are typically preferred for routine mattress cleaning and odor removal.

How Do I Dry the Mattress Properly After Cleaning?

Drying is a critical part of How To Get Rid Of Urine Smell On Mattress, because moisture left inside can lead to new odors.

To help your mattress dry:

  • Open windows or use a fan to increase airflow.
  • If possible, stand the mattress on its side to allow better air circulation.
  • Avoid making the bed until the area feels fully dry to the touch.

Deep layers may take longer to dry than the surface, so allowing extra time is helpful.

How Can I Prevent Future Urine Smells on My Mattress?

Prevention can save a lot of effort later. Consider:

  • Using a waterproof mattress protector to keep liquids from soaking in.
  • Cleaning accidents as soon as they happen to limit spread and saturation.
  • Routinely vacuuming and airing out your mattress to keep it fresher over time.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Get Rid Of Urine Smell On Mattress

  • Blot quickly: Remove as much fresh urine as possible by pressing with towels—don’t rub.
  • Neutralize, don’t mask: Use a vinegar and water solution to help break down odor-causing residues.
  • Absorb odors: Apply baking soda, leave it for hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Repeat for old stains: Older or stronger smells may require multiple cleaning cycles.
  • Skip harsh chemicals: Bleach and strong cleaners can damage materials and leave strong fumes.
  • Dry completely: Good airflow and drying time are essential to prevent new odors.
  • Protect going forward: A protective barrier and quick cleanups reduce the chance of lasting smells.

With patience and the right steps, removing urine smell from a mattress is often achievable at home, especially when accidents are treated quickly and thoroughly.