How To Remove Cat Urine Smell From Mattress: Step‑By‑Step Guide

If you’re searching for “How To Remove Cat Urine Smell From Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident, a lingering odor, or both. This guide walks you through practical, mattress-safe steps to get rid of stains and smells, plus answers to common questions about cat urine on mattresses.

Why Does Cat Urine Smell So Strong on a Mattress?

Cat urine contains uric acid crystals that can soak deep into a mattress. When it dries, the smell can become more concentrated and tougher to remove, especially on thick or absorbent materials.

On a mattress, this matters because:

  • The liquid can penetrate multiple layers, not just the surface.
  • Odor can reactivate with moisture (like humidity or sweat).
  • If not cleaned well, the smell may encourage repeat accidents in the same spot.

The good news: with the right approach, many people are able to significantly reduce or fully remove the smell.

What Should I Do First When My Cat Urinates on the Mattress?

1. Act Quickly and Blot, Don’t Rub

For fresh accidents:

  • Remove bedding immediately and set aside to wash.
  • Use paper towels or a clean cloth to blot up as much urine as possible.
  • Press firmly to draw liquid up from deeper layers.
  • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

If the stain is already dry, you can skip straight to the cleaning steps below.

How To Remove Cat Urine Smell From Mattress: Main Cleaning Method

This approach uses common household ingredients that many sleepers find gentle enough for most mattress types.

2. Apply a Vinegar Solution

A mild vinegar solution can help neutralize odors and break down residue.

  • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bowl.
  • Lightly dampen (do not soak) the stained area.
  • Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
  • Blot again with clean towels to remove excess moisture.

Vinegar has a strong scent at first, but it usually fades as it dries.

3. Use Baking Soda for Odor Absorption

Baking soda can help pull remaining moisture and odor out of the mattress surface.

  • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the treated area.
  • Gently spread it so it covers slightly beyond the stain.
  • Leave it on for at least several hours, ideally overnight, to absorb odors.
  • Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using a clean upholstery attachment.

If the smell lingers, this step can be repeated after the mattress dries further.

How Do I Handle Old or Deep Cat Urine Smells?

Older stains may need a little more attention.

4. Re-Treat and Allow Deeper Drying Time

For dried or recurring odors:

  • Lightly reapply the vinegar solution to the affected area.
  • Consider applying it in thin layers over time rather than soaking the mattress at once.
  • Repeat the baking soda + vacuum process after each drying cycle.

Persistent odors can sometimes be reduced by several rounds of treatment rather than one heavy application.

Will This Damage My Mattress?

Most mattresses can handle light, surface-level moisture followed by thorough drying. Still, it’s wise to:

  • Check your mattress care tag or manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning.
  • Avoid oversaturating the mattress, which can lead to trapped moisture.
  • Dry in a well-ventilated room, using a fan if possible to speed up evaporation.
  • Ensure the mattress is fully dry before putting bedding back on.

For sensitive materials, spot-testing any solution on a small, hidden area first can be a smart step.

How Can I Tell If the Smell Is Really Gone?

Cat urine odor can be stubborn. To check progress:

  • Smell the area when the mattress is completely dry, not damp.
  • If the scent is faint but still there, another round of baking soda treatment may help.
  • If the odor persists strongly after multiple attempts, it may indicate:
    • The stain penetrated deeper layers.
    • There are multiple accident spots you haven’t found yet.

In some cases, people choose a mattress protector for added peace of mind after cleaning, to help isolate any residual odor and protect against future accidents.

How Do I Prevent Future Cat Urine Accidents on My Mattress?

While prevention is more about cat behavior than the mattress itself, a few practical steps can help protect your bed:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector to act as a barrier between accidents and the mattress core.
  • Keep litter boxes accessible and clean, especially for older cats.
  • If accidents are frequent, consider discussing possible behavioral or environmental factors with a pet professional.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about How To Remove Cat Urine Smell From Mattress:

  • Blot immediately: Remove as much urine as possible with towels, no scrubbing.
  • Use a vinegar solution: Equal parts white vinegar and water can help neutralize odor.
  • Apply baking soda: Let it sit for hours or overnight to absorb remaining smells.
  • Vacuum thoroughly: Remove all baking soda with an upholstery attachment.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or deeper stains may require multiple gentle treatments.
  • Avoid over-wetting: Lightly dampen, don’t soak, to prevent trapped moisture and damage.
  • Let it dry fully: Good airflow and time are essential before re-making the bed.
  • Protect for the future: A waterproof protector can help limit damage from any future accidents.

With patience and the right steps, many cat urine smells on mattresses can be significantly reduced or removed, helping your sleep surface feel fresher and more comfortable again.