How To Remove The Smell Of Urine From Mattress: Simple Steps That Work

If you’re searching for “How To Remove The Smell Of Urine From Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with an accident and a lingering odor that just won’t go away. This guide explains why urine smells stick to mattresses, how to clean fresh and dried stains, and what to do if the smell still lingers.

Why Does Urine Smell Stay in a Mattress?

Mattresses are thick and absorbent, so liquid can soak deep below the surface. Urine contains:

  • Water
  • Urea and uric acid (which can cause strong odors)
  • Salts and other organic compounds

When urine dries, it can leave behind crystals and residue that keep releasing odor over time. That’s why simply wiping the surface or using a light spray often isn’t enough.

How To Remove The Smell Of Urine From Mattress: Step-by-Step

This method focuses on neutralizing the odor, not just masking it.

1. Act Quickly on Fresh Urine

If the spot is still wet:

  1. Blot, don’t rub
    Use paper towels or a clean cloth to press down and soak up as much urine as possible.

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

  2. Remove bedding
    Strip sheets, mattress protector, and blankets and launder them according to their care labels.

2. Use a Vinegar Solution to Break Down the Odor

For both fresh and dried urine:

  1. Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
  2. Lightly spray or dab the affected area until it’s damp but not soaked.
  3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
  4. Blot again with a dry towel to remove excess moisture.

Vinegar helps neutralize odor-causing compounds and can reduce the sharp smell of urine.

3. Deodorize with Baking Soda

After using the vinegar solution:

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
  2. Gently spread it to cover slightly beyond the stained spot.
  3. Leave it on for at least several hours, ideally overnight, to absorb odor and moisture.
  4. Vacuum thoroughly to remove all baking soda from the mattress surface.

If the smell remains, you can repeat the vinegar and baking soda steps.

How Do You Handle Dried or Old Urine Odors?

Old stains often mean the urine has had more time to sink deeper.

Rehydrate and Treat

  1. Lightly dampen the area with plain water or a diluted vinegar solution (as above).
  2. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to help loosen dried residue.
  3. Blot, then follow the vinegar + baking soda process again.

Multiple Treatments May Be Needed

For strong, long-standing smells, it’s common to need more than one cleaning cycle. Allow the mattress to fully dry between treatments to avoid lingering dampness.

Is It Safe to Use Enzyme Cleaners on a Mattress?

Many people use enzyme-based cleaners for organic stains like urine.

  • Enzyme cleaners are designed to help break down odor-causing components in urine.
  • Always check the label to ensure it’s suitable for household fabrics and follow instructions carefully.
  • Test on a small, hidden area first to check for discoloration.
  • After applying, blot and allow the mattress to dry completely.

These cleaners can be especially helpful for persistent pet urine odors.

How Long Will the Smell Take to Go Away?

The time it takes to remove urine smell depends on:

  • How much urine soaked into the mattress
  • How soon it was treated
  • Mattress type and thickness
  • Room ventilation and drying conditions

In many cases, odor improves significantly after one thorough treatment and full drying, but stubborn smells may require repeating the process and improving airflow in the room.

How Can I Dry the Mattress Properly?

Drying is as important as cleaning:

  • Open windows or use a fan to increase airflow.
  • If possible, stand the mattress upright against a wall to help it dry more evenly.
  • Avoid covering the mattress with bedding until it feels completely dry to the touch, both on the surface and underneath.

Keeping the mattress dry helps prevent musty smells and keeps the urine odor from returning.

Can the Smell of Urine Be Removed Completely?

In many everyday situations, most or all of the smell can be noticeably reduced with:

  • Prompt blotting
  • A vinegar and baking soda treatment
  • Careful drying
  • Optional enzyme cleaner treatment for tough cases

However, if a mattress has repeated accidents over a long time, the odor may be more difficult to eliminate fully because the liquid has penetrated deeply into the layers. In those cases, several cleanings are often needed.

How Do I Prevent Future Urine Odors in My Mattress?

A few simple steps can make cleanup easier next time:

  • Use a water-resistant mattress protector to keep liquid from soaking in.
  • Clean accidents right away, before they dry.
  • Allow the mattress to air out regularly, especially after any spill or cleaning.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about How To Remove The Smell Of Urine From Mattress

  • Blot first, never rub: This keeps urine from spreading deeper into the mattress.
  • Vinegar solution helps neutralize odor, not just cover it up.
  • Baking soda is your main deodorizer, so give it hours (or overnight) to work.
  • Dried or old stains may need multiple treatments, especially in thick mattresses.
  • Proper drying and good airflow are essential to avoid lingering or musty smells.
  • Enzyme cleaners can help with stubborn odors, especially from pets, if used as directed.
  • Prevention with a protective cover and quick cleanup makes future accidents much easier to handle.

With these steps, you have a clear, practical process for how to remove the smell of urine from mattress and help your bed feel fresher and more comfortable again.