How To Get Urine Smell Out Of Mattress: Simple, Effective Steps That Work

If you’re searching for “How To Get Urine Smell Out Of Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering odor that just won’t go away. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, from immediate cleanup to deeper deodorizing, using common household ingredients.

Why Does Urine Smell Linger In a Mattress?

Mattresses are filled with porous materials that absorb liquids easily. Urine can:

  • Soak below the surface fabric
  • Leave behind odor-causing residues
  • Create stubborn smells if not cleaned properly

The key is to remove both moisture and residue, not just mask the odor with fragrance.

What Should I Do First When Urine Gets on a Mattress?

Step 1: Act Quickly (But Don’t Rub)

If the stain is fresh:

  1. Blot, don’t scrub

    • Use clean, dry towels or paper towels
    • Press firmly to soak up as much liquid as possible
    • Avoid rubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress

  2. Remove bedding immediately

    • Wash sheets and protectors according to their care labels
    • This prevents odors from setting into your linens

How To Get Urine Smell Out Of Mattress With Common Household Items

The most common at-home method uses white vinegar and baking soda.

Step 2: Apply a Vinegar Cleaning Solution

Mix a simple solution in a spray bottle:

  • 1 part white vinegar
  • 1 part water

You can add a small amount of mild dish soap if desired.

  1. Lightly spray the affected area
    • Don’t soak the mattress completely, but cover the stain and surrounding area
  2. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes
    • Vinegar helps break down urine residues and neutralize odor
  3. Blot again
    • Use clean, dry towels to remove as much moisture as possible

Step 3: Use Baking Soda to Neutralize Odor

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area
  2. Let it sit for several hours, or ideally overnight
    • Baking soda naturally absorbs odors and remaining moisture
  3. Vacuum thoroughly
    • Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove all the powder

If the smell remains, you can repeat the process once or twice.

What If the Urine Stain Is Old or Already Dried?

For dried urine:

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area with water
    • This can help loosen old residues
  2. Then follow the vinegar solution + baking soda steps above
  3. You may need multiple treatments for deep or older stains

Some people also use enzyme-based cleaners designed for organic stains. These can help break down urine components more fully. Always spot test any cleaner on a small hidden area of the mattress first.

Is It Safe to Use Strong Chemicals or Fragrances?

Many sleepers prefer to avoid harsh chemicals and strong synthetic fragrances directly on a mattress surface.

  • Bleach and similar products may discolor fabrics and can be harsh on mattress materials
  • Heavy perfumes or air fresheners usually mask odor only briefly, without removing the source

A gentle approach with vinegar, baking soda, and mild cleaners is generally a more mattress-friendly way to handle occasional accidents.

How Long Does It Take for the Smell to Go Away?

The timeline depends on:

  • How much urine was absorbed
  • How fast you treated it
  • Mattress type and thickness
  • Ventilation in the room

Often, you’ll notice a clear improvement after one full vinegar + baking soda treatment and complete drying. Deep odors may take a couple of rounds and a day or two of airing out.

To speed up drying:

  • Open windows or use a fan
  • Avoid making the bed until the mattress is completely dry

How Can I Prevent Future Urine Smells in My Mattress?

Prevention makes cleaning much easier next time:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to keep liquids from soaking into the mattress core
  • Clean accidents right away, before they dry
  • Air out your mattress periodically by removing bedding and letting it breathe

These simple habits help keep your mattress fresher over time.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Get Urine Smell Out Of Mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately; don’t rub or scrub.
  • Use simple ingredients: A 50/50 vinegar and water solution followed by baking soda is a common, effective approach.
  • Let it sit: Give vinegar time to work and baking soda time to absorb moisture and odor.
  • Vacuum thoroughly: Remove all baking soda once dry to avoid residue.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or deeper stains may require multiple treatments.
  • Dry completely: Ensure the mattress is fully dry before adding bedding to avoid trapped odors.
  • Protect the mattress: A waterproof protector and quick cleanup reduce the chance of lingering smells in the future.

With a calm, step-by-step approach and a few basic supplies, you can usually get urine smell out of a mattress and restore a fresher sleeping surface.