How To Remove Pee Smell From Mattress: Step‑By‑Step FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for how to remove pee smell from mattress, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering odor that just won’t go away. This guide walks through simple, home-based methods to clean urine from a mattress, reduce odor, and help protect your bed over time.

Why does pee smell stay in a mattress?

Mattresses are made of thick, absorbent layers. When urine soaks in, it can:

  • Penetrate beyond the surface fabric
  • Dry inside the foam or padding
  • Leave behind odor-causing residues

If urine isn’t cleaned quickly and thoroughly, it can lead to persistent smells and sometimes visible stains. That’s why knowing how to remove pee smell from mattress as early as possible is helpful.

What should I do first after a fresh accident?

1. Act quickly

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

  1. Strip the bed
    Remove all sheets, mattress protectors, and bedding and wash them according to their care labels.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use paper towels or a clean cloth to press and blot the wet area.

    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.
    • Keep blotting until the area feels only slightly damp.

  3. Prepare a gentle cleaning solution
    A common approach is:

    • Cool or lukewarm water
    • A small amount of mild liquid detergent or gentle household cleaner

Lightly dampen (do not soak) a clean cloth with the solution and dab the affected area to help lift urine from the surface.

How do I remove pee smell from mattress using household items?

This is where baking soda and a light cleaning solution are often used.

2. Clean the area

  1. Lightly rinse with water

    • Mist or dab the area with clean water to dilute remaining urine.
    • Blot again with dry cloths.

  2. Use a gentle cleaner if needed

    • Apply sparingly; too much liquid can make the mattress take longer to dry.
    • Blot thoroughly after application.

3. Deodorize with baking soda

Baking soda is commonly used to help absorb moisture and neutralize odors.

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
  2. Gently spread it out so it covers slightly beyond the stain.
  3. Leave it on for at least several hours, or overnight if possible.
  4. Vacuum up the baking soda slowly, using an upholstery attachment if you have one.

If odor remains, this baking soda step can be repeated.

How do I deal with old or dried urine smells?

Old accidents can be more stubborn. When learning how to remove pee smell from mattress that has dried:

  1. Re-dampen the area slightly

    • Lightly mist with water or a mild cleaning solution.
    • This can help loosen dried residues.

  2. Repeat the cleaning and baking soda process

    • Clean gently, then apply baking soda and let it sit as long as possible.

  3. Allow extra drying time

    • Older stains may need more time to fully dry and air out.

If a smell has been present for a long time, multiple rounds of cleaning and deodorizing may be required.

How long does it take for a mattress to dry?

Drying time depends on how much liquid was used, room temperature, and airflow. In general:

  • Aim for several hours to a full day of drying time.
  • Keep the mattress in a well‑ventilated room.
  • If possible, open windows or use a fan to gently move air across the surface.

Make sure the mattress is fully dry before replacing bedding to help prevent odor from getting trapped.

Can I use strong cleaners or heavy perfumes?

Many people want fast results, but it’s important to be careful.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage mattress materials or leave strong, lingering smells.
  • Strong perfumes or heavily scented sprays may mask the odor temporarily but often do not remove it.
  • When in doubt, choose mild, non-bleaching cleaners and test a small, hidden spot first.

How can I prevent pee smells in the future?

Once you’ve worked out how to remove pee smell from mattress, it’s helpful to reduce the chances of it happening again.

Common preventive steps include:

  • Using a water-resistant mattress protector
  • Washing bedding regularly
  • Cleaning accidents as soon as they happen
  • Letting the mattress air out from time to time by removing bedding for a few hours

These simple habits can help keep your mattress fresher and make any future cleanups easier.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about how to remove pee smell from mattress

  • Act fast: Blot wet spots immediately to limit how deep urine soaks into the mattress.
  • Blot, don’t scrub: Press with clean cloths or paper towels instead of rubbing.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Lightly clean with water and mild detergent; avoid saturating the mattress.
  • Deodorize with baking soda: Generously cover the area, let sit for hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Repeat if needed: Older or stronger odors may require more than one cleaning cycle.
  • Dry completely: Good airflow and plenty of time help prevent trapped moisture and lingering odors.
  • Protect the mattress: A washable protector and quick response to spills make future cleanup easier.

With these steps, you have a clear, practical approach for how to remove pee smell from mattress and help keep your sleeping surface fresher over time.