How To Get Urine Out Of Mattress Pad: Step‑by‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Get Urine Out Of Mattress Pad”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering stain and smell. This guide walks you through what to do right now, what actually works on urine, and how to protect your mattress pad in the future.

What’s the first thing I should do when urine gets on a mattress pad?

Act quickly. The faster you respond, the easier it is to remove both stain and odor.

  1. Remove bedding
    Strip sheets, blankets, and any covers so you can work directly on the mattress pad.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use clean, dry towels or paper towels to press firmly on the wet area. This helps absorb as much liquid as possible.

    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the pad.

  3. Check if the pad is machine-washable
    Look at the care tag. Some mattress pads can go straight into the washer; others (especially thicker or waterproof ones) may need spot cleaning only.

How To Get Urine Out Of Mattress Pad (Step‑By‑Step)

1. For machine‑washable mattress pads

If the care label says it’s safe to wash:

  1. Pre-treat the spot

    • Mix cool water with a small amount of mild laundry detergent.
    • Gently dab the stained area with a clean cloth.
    • For odor, you can sprinkle baking soda on the wet spot and let it sit 15–30 minutes, then brush or shake it off.

  2. Use a gentle wash cycle

    • Wash in cool or warm water, not hot. Hot water can sometimes set protein-based stains like urine.
    • Add a regular amount of mild detergent.

  3. Add odor help if allowed by care instructions

    • Some people use a small amount of white vinegar in the rinse cycle for odor control.
    • Check fabric care guidelines first.

  4. Dry thoroughly

    • Use low to medium heat in the dryer, or air dry flat.
    • Make sure the pad is fully dry before putting it back on the bed to avoid musty smells.

2. How do I clean a non‑washable or bulky mattress pad?

If your pad is too large or labeled “spot clean only,” you’ll need to treat it on the bed or on a flat surface.

Spot‑clean method:

  1. Blot up remaining moisture
    Press with towels until the area feels just damp, not soaked.

  2. Apply a cleaning solution
    A simple option is:

    • 1 part white vinegar
    • 2–3 parts cool water
      Lightly spray or dab the mixture onto the urine spot. The goal is to dampen, not soak.

  3. Blot again
    Use a clean cloth to press and lift the liquid back out of the pad.

  4. Use baking soda for odor

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
    • Let it sit for several hours, or overnight if possible.
    • Vacuum up the baking soda once it’s completely dry.

  5. Air dry completely

    • Lay the pad flat in a well‑ventilated area.
    • Avoid using very high heat, which can damage some materials.

How do I remove old or dried urine stains and smells?

Older stains are more stubborn, but many people still see improvement with repeated cleaning.

  1. Re‑dampen the stained area
    Lightly mist with cool water so the stain responds better to cleaning solutions.

  2. Use a stronger vinegar‑water mix

    • Up to 1:1 vinegar and water can be used on many fabrics (test a small hidden spot first).
    • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then blot.

  3. Repeat baking soda treatment

    • Cover the area with baking soda and leave it for several hours.
    • Vacuum well. You may need to repeat the process more than once.

  4. Know when it may not fully come out
    Deeply set stains in thick pads may never disappear completely, but odor and discoloration often improve with consistent treatment.

Is it safe to use bleach or harsh cleaners on a mattress pad?

In many cases, no:

  • Bleach can weaken fabric fibers, fade colors, or damage waterproof coatings.
  • Strong chemicals may leave their own lingering smells.

Always follow the care label first. When in doubt, mild detergent, vinegar, and baking soda are gentler, commonly used options for many mattress pads.

How can I prevent urine from soaking into the mattress pad next time?

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

  • Use a water-resistant or waterproof layer over the mattress and under the pad where appropriate.
  • Wash or spot-clean as soon as an accident happens.
  • Keep extra bedding and a spare pad handy so you can swap quickly and clean the soiled one without delay.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about How To Get Urine Out Of Mattress Pad:

  • Act fast: Blot immediately; don’t rub or scrub.
  • Check the care tag: It determines whether you machine-wash or spot-clean.
  • Cool water is safer: Hot water can sometimes set urine stains.
  • Gentle cleaners work best: Mild detergent, diluted vinegar, and baking soda are commonly used for stain and odor control.
  • Dry completely: A damp pad can develop musty odors over time.
  • Old stains need patience: Repeated treatments may be needed, and some discoloration may remain.
  • Prevention helps: A protective layer under your mattress pad can limit how far liquids soak in.

With these steps, most people can significantly reduce or eliminate both stains and odor after a urine accident on a mattress pad, keeping their sleep surface fresher and more comfortable.