How To Get Rid Of Urine Stains On Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching for how to get rid of urine stains on mattress, you’re usually dealing with two issues at once: visible stains and persistent odor. The good news is that most fresh and even many dried urine stains can be greatly reduced or removed with common household ingredients and a bit of patience.

Below, you’ll find straightforward, FAQ-style answers to the most common questions about urine on mattresses, from fresh accidents to older yellow marks.

What’s the best way to clean fresh urine from a mattress?

Fresh stains are easier to handle than dried ones. Acting quickly can prevent deeper soaking and long‑term odor.

Step‑by‑step for fresh urine:

  1. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to press firmly into the wet area. This helps absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  2. Apply a mild cleaning solution
    Mix a simple solution of:

    • 1 part white vinegar
    • 1 part cool water

    Lightly spray or dab the mixture onto the stained area until it is damp (not soaking). Vinegar helps break down urine components and reduce odor.

  3. Blot again
    Press dry towels onto the area to remove excess moisture. Repeat until the spot feels just slightly damp.

  4. Use baking soda on top
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area. Baking soda can help absorb remaining moisture and neutralize odors.

  5. Let it dry completely
    Leave the baking soda on the mattress for several hours, ideally overnight, until fully dry.

  6. Vacuum the residue
    Once dry, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly. The stain and smell are often much lighter after one full cycle.

How do I get rid of dried or old urine stains on a mattress?

Older stains can be more stubborn because urine has had time to dry, oxidize, and set into the fabric and foam.

For dried stains:

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area
    Mist the stained spot with a vinegar‑and‑water mix (same 1:1 ratio) to help re-activate and loosen the dried urine.

  2. Optional: add mild detergent
    You can add a small drop of gentle liquid detergent to the solution to help lift discoloration. Avoid anything very harsh or heavily perfumed.

  3. Let it sit
    Allow the dampened area to sit for about 10–15 minutes so the solution can work into the stain.

  4. Blot and apply baking soda
    Blot up excess liquid, then coat the area with baking soda as before.

  5. Allow extended drying time
    For old stains, leave the baking soda on longer, often overnight or even 24 hours, before vacuuming.

Some older or very dark yellow stains may not disappear completely but can usually be lightened significantly and made much less noticeable.

What if the urine smell stays after cleaning?

Sometimes the mattress looks clean but still smells. Odor often lingers when urine has seeped deeper into the layers.

To reduce persistent odors:

  • Repeat the vinegar + baking soda process
    Multiple treatments can gradually reduce smell, especially with older stains.
  • Increase ventilation
    Let the mattress dry in a well‑ventilated room. If possible, place it near an open window or use a fan to help air circulation.
  • Make sure it dries fully
    Lingering dampness can trap odor. The mattress should feel completely dry to the touch before putting bedding back on.

If strong odor remains after several attempts, it may be coming from deep inside the mattress, where surface cleaning is less effective.

Are there any cleaning methods I should avoid?

Yes, certain approaches can damage the mattress or make stains worse:

  • Avoid soaking the mattress
    Mattresses are difficult to dry thoroughly. Too much liquid can lead to dampness deep inside.
  • Avoid very hot water
    Hot water can sometimes make stains more difficult to remove by helping them “set” into the fabric.
  • Use bleach with caution, if at all
    Bleach can discolor fabric and may weaken some materials. It may also leave a strong chemical smell.
  • Skip harsh scrubbing tools
    Stiff brushes can roughen the fabric cover and push stains deeper.

How can I prevent future urine stains on my mattress?

While accidents can’t always be avoided, you can limit the impact:

  • Use a water-resistant mattress protector that can be removed and washed.
  • Address any new accidents as quickly as possible before they dry.
  • Keep an extra set of sheets ready so you can strip the bed and start cleaning right away.

Does mattress type change how I should clean urine stains?

Most standard mattresses (innerspring, foam, hybrid, latex) can be cleaned with the same basic approach:

  • Blot liquid
  • Treat with a mild vinegar‑and‑water solution
  • Apply baking soda
  • Allow full drying and vacuuming

Still, it’s wise to check the care tag on your mattress for any cleaning warnings or special instructions related to its materials.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about how to get rid of urine stains on mattress:

  • Act fast on fresh stains: Blot thoroughly, then use a vinegar‑and‑water solution followed by baking soda.
  • For old stains: Re‑dampen with a mild solution, let it sit, then use baking soda and allow extra drying time.
  • Odor control: Multiple treatments, good ventilation, and complete drying help reduce lingering smells.
  • Be gentle: Avoid soaking, hot water, harsh scrubbing, and strong chemicals that can damage mattress fabric.
  • Think ahead: A removable, washable barrier (like a mattress protector) can make future cleanups much easier.

With patient, careful cleaning, many people find they can significantly reduce both the appearance and smell of urine on a mattress using simple household methods.