How To Take Pee Smell Out Of Mattress: Simple Steps That Actually Help

If you’re searching for “How To Take Pee Smell Out Of Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a recent accident or a stubborn old odor. This guide walks you through what causes the smell, how to treat fresh and dried pee, and what to do if the odor won’t go away.

Why Does Pee Smell Linger In a Mattress?

Mattresses are made of porous materials that soak up liquid. When urine seeps through the cover and into the foam or padding, it can:

  • Leave salts and organic compounds behind
  • Create persistent odors once dry
  • Be harder to remove if not treated quickly

That’s why simply spraying air freshener or using standard laundry detergent on just the surface usually isn’t enough. To understand how to take pee smell out of mattress materials, you need to reach into the layers where the liquid went.

What Should I Do First When Pee Gets on the Mattress?

1. Act Fast (If the Spot Is Still Wet)

If the accident is recent:

  1. Blot, don’t rub

    • Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels.
    • Press firmly to pull as much liquid out as possible.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the mattress.

  2. Remove bedding right away

    • Strip sheets, protectors, and covers for separate washing.
    • Wash according to their care labels using a regular laundry cycle.

  3. Keep the area ventilated

    • Open a window or use a fan to speed up drying later.

This quick response reduces how far the urine spreads and makes odor removal much easier.

How To Take Pee Smell Out Of Mattress: Step-by-Step

These steps are aimed at neutralizing both fresh and dried pee smells.

Step 1: Use a Gentle Cleaning Solution

A commonly used home approach is:

  • A mixture of mild dish soap and water, or
  • A solution containing white vinegar and water (often used because vinegar can help reduce smells)

Lightly spray or dab the affected area—do not soak the mattress completely. You want enough moisture to break up residue, but not so much that the mattress stays wet for hours.

Then:

  • Blot again with a dry cloth to lift out the loosened urine and cleaning solution.

Step 2: Deodorize With a Dry Absorbent

Many people find that baking soda works well as a mattress deodorizer because it can help absorb odors.

  1. Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp, treated area.
  2. Gently work it in with your fingers or a soft brush.
  3. Leave it in place for at least several hours, or overnight if possible.

When completely dry:

  • Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using a brush attachment.
  • Repeat once or twice if a faint odor remains.

What If the Pee Smell Is Old or Really Strong?

Old urine stains and smells are usually more stubborn because they have set deep into the foam and dried multiple times.

For older odors:

  • Repeat the clean-and-baking-soda process more than once.
  • Allow extra time for the mattress to air out between treatments.
  • If possible, move the mattress to a well-ventilated spot, away from humidity.

If the smell remains noticeable after several attempts, it may be that the urine has deeply saturated the foam, which can be harder to fully neutralize at home.

Is It Safe to Use Strong Chemicals or Scented Sprays?

Many people wonder if strong cleaners or heavy fragrances are the fastest way to take pee smell out of a mattress. It’s usually best to be cautious:

  • Harsh chemicals can damage mattress fabrics and foams.
  • Strong fragrances might only mask, not remove, the odor.
  • Some products can leave their own lingering smells.

When considering any cleaner, it’s wise to:

  • Test a small, hidden area first
  • Use minimal amounts and avoid soaking
  • Follow any manufacturer care instructions for your mattress

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

Odor removal is rarely instant, especially if the mattress is thick or has multiple layers.

Typical factors that affect timing:

  • How much urine was absorbed
  • Whether it’s a fresh or old accident
  • How well-ventilated and dry the room is

With prompt blotting, a gentle cleaner, and time for baking soda and air-drying to work, many people notice a major improvement within a day or two, with further fading over time.

How Can I Prevent Pee Smells in My Mattress in the Future?

Prevention makes a big difference:

  • Use a washable, waterproof mattress protector to keep liquids out of the foam.
  • Deal with accidents as soon as possible—the faster you blot and treat, the less odor remains.
  • Allow your mattress to breathe and air out occasionally by removing bedding during the day.

✔️ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points consumers should understand about how to take pee smell out of mattress:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh pee immediately to limit how deep it soaks in.
  • Clean gently: Use a light cleaning solution and avoid harsh scrubbing or soaking.
  • Deodorize deeply: Baking soda is commonly used to absorb leftover smells from deep inside the mattress.
  • Be patient: Tough or older odors often need more than one treatment and plenty of drying time.
  • Protect for next time: A waterproof protector and quick cleanup help prevent future lingering odors.

With a calm, step-by-step approach, many mattress pee smells can be significantly reduced or fully removed, helping your bed feel fresher and more comfortable again.