How To Wash a Mattress That Was Peed On: Step‑by‑Step FAQ

If you’re searching for how to wash a mattress that was peed on, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or a lingering urine stain and smell. This FAQ-style guide walks you through what to do, what to avoid, and how to protect your mattress in the future.

What’s the first thing I should do when someone pees on the mattress?

Act quickly. The sooner you treat urine, the less likely it is to leave a stain or odor.

  1. Strip the bed – Remove sheets, protectors, and bedding right away for separate washing.
  2. Blot, don’t rub – Use dry, clean towels or paper towels to press firmly into the wet area. This absorbs moisture instead of pushing it deeper.
  3. Avoid hot air or heat – Heat can “set” stains and odors, making them harder to remove.

At this stage, you’re just trying to remove as much liquid as possible before deeper cleaning.

How To Wash a Mattress That Was Peed On (Fresh Stains)

What cleaning solution should I use?

For a fresh accident, many people find a gentle, homemade solution effective:

  • Mix cool water with a mild liquid soap, OR
  • Use a water and white vinegar mix (often about equal parts)

Do not soak the mattress. Mattresses are hard to dry thoroughly, and excess moisture can create its own problems later.

Step-by-step for fresh urine

  1. Blot again
    After stripping the bed, keep blotting until towels come away mostly dry.

  2. Apply a light cleaning solution

    • Lightly spray or dab the solution onto the stained area.
    • Avoid pouring; you don’t want the mattress saturated.

  3. Gently dab

    • Use a clean, light-colored cloth to gently dab the area.
    • Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading.

  4. Rinse lightly

    • Lightly dab with a cloth dampened with plain cool water to remove soap or vinegar residue.
    • Continue blotting with dry towels.

  5. Deodorize with a dry powder

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
    • Leave it for several hours or overnight to absorb moisture and odor.

  6. Vacuum thoroughly

    • Once the baking soda is completely dry, vacuum it up slowly.
    • Repeat if needed.

How do I clean dried or old urine stains on a mattress?

Old stains usually need more than basic soap and water.

Steps for dried urine stains:

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area

    • Mist the stain with cool water or a light vinegar-and-water mix.
    • This helps “loosen” the dried residue.

  2. Use a targeted cleaning solution

    • Apply a small amount of mild liquid soap mixed with water, or a gentle upholstery-safe cleaner.
    • Test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first.

  3. Gently scrub and blot

    • Use a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush with light pressure.
    • Alternate between scrubbing and blotting to lift out the stain.

  4. Repeat if necessary

    • Old stains may take several rounds of light treatment instead of one heavy soaking.

  5. Deodorize and dry

    • Apply baking soda again and allow it to sit for several hours.
    • Vacuum completely and let the mattress air out in a well-ventilated room.

How can I remove lingering urine odor from a mattress?

Odor can remain even after visible stains fade. To address smell:

  • Use baking soda generously
    • Cover the smell area with a thick layer and leave it for as long as practical.
  • Airflow is key
    • Open windows or use a fan to help the mattress dry and air out.
  • Repeat treatments
    • Persistent odors often improve with multiple rounds of light cleaning and baking soda.

If odor remains despite several careful attempts, the urine may have soaked deeply into the mattress layers, which can be harder to fully deodorize.

Is it safe to use harsh chemicals or steam cleaners?

Use caution.

  • Harsh chemicals
    • Strong bleach, overly concentrated cleaners, or products not intended for fabrics can discolor or damage the mattress materials.
  • Steam cleaners
    • These can drive moisture deeper into the mattress and may be difficult to dry fully.
    • If overused, they may leave the interior damp for a long time.

Whenever you’re unsure, use mild, fabric-safe solutions and minimal moisture.

How do I dry the mattress after washing it?

Proper drying is essential when learning how to wash a mattress that was peed on.

  • Increase airflow
    • Use fans and open windows to promote faster drying.
  • Keep it flat
    • Dry the mattress on a flat, supportive surface to keep its shape.
  • Allow enough time
    • Make sure the mattress is fully dry all the way through before putting bedding back on.

If the mattress still feels cool or damp to the touch, it likely needs more time.

How can I prevent future urine damage to my mattress?

A few simple habits can make future accidents much easier to manage:

  • Use a waterproof mattress protector under your regular sheet.
  • Spot-check regularly if accidents are common, so stains don’t sit for long.
  • Have basic supplies ready – mild soap, baking soda, clean cloths, and a handheld vacuum can make cleanup faster.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to understand about How To Wash a Mattress That Was Peed On:

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine immediately to limit staining and odor.
  • Use gentle cleaners: Mild soap, water, and vinegar-based solutions are often enough.
  • Avoid over-soaking: Too much liquid can make drying difficult and cause new issues.
  • Deodorize with dry powders: Baking soda is commonly used to absorb moisture and smell.
  • Dry thoroughly: Good airflow and enough time are essential before re-making the bed.
  • Protect for the future: A waterproof layer makes cleanup easier if accidents happen again.

With calm, step-by-step care, most urine stains and smells can be significantly reduced, helping you keep your mattress cleaner and more comfortable over time.