What Can I Use To Clean Urine From Mattress? Simple Methods That Work

If you’re searching for “What Can I Use To Clean Urine From Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an old stain you’ve just noticed. This guide walks you through safe, practical ways to clean urine from a mattress, reduce odor, and protect your bed for future use.

What Can I Use To Clean Urine From Mattress Safely?

For most mattresses, you can use common household ingredients to clean urine effectively:

  • Paper towels or clean cloths – for blotting
  • Cold water – to dilute and rinse
  • Mild liquid dish soap – for general cleaning
  • White vinegar – to help neutralize odor
  • Baking soda – to absorb moisture and smell
  • Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – sometimes used for stubborn stains on light-colored fabrics
    (Always spot-test first and avoid if your mattress care tag warns against it.)

These ingredients are often enough to handle fresh and dried urine on most standard mattresses.

How Do I Clean Fresh Urine From a Mattress?

Fresh urine is easier to remove, so acting quickly helps.

Step-by-step method

  1. Strip the bed immediately
    Remove sheets, mattress protector, and blankets so urine doesn’t spread.

  2. Blot, don’t rub
    Use paper towels or a dry cloth to press down and absorb as much liquid as possible.

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

  3. Apply a mild cleaning solution
    Mix:

    • 1 cup cold water
    • A few drops of mild dish soap
    • Optional: ½ cup white vinegar for extra odor control
      Lightly spray or dab the solution onto the affected area—do not soak the mattress.

  4. Blot again
    Use a clean cloth to absorb excess moisture until the area feels only slightly damp.

  5. Use baking soda
    Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp spot. This helps:

    • Draw out remaining moisture
    • Reduce lingering odor

  6. Let it sit, then vacuum
    Allow the baking soda to sit for several hours, ideally overnight, then vacuum it up thoroughly.

What If the Urine Stain Is Old or Fully Dried?

Dried urine can leave visible yellow stains and stronger odors. You may need a slightly stronger approach.

For older urine stains

  • Start with the same steps: light cleaning solution, blotting, and baking soda.

  • If the stain remains on a light-colored mattress, some people use a diluted mixture of:

    • 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide
    • 2 parts water
    • A small amount of mild dish soap

    Apply lightly with a cloth, then blot and follow with baking soda.
    ⚠️ Always spot-test on an inconspicuous area first. Hydrogen peroxide can sometimes lighten fabric or affect certain materials.

If odor or staining persists after drying, a second round of cleaning is sometimes helpful.

Are There Things I Should Avoid Using on My Mattress?

When thinking about What Can I Use To Clean Urine From Mattress, it’s just as important to know what not to use.

Try to avoid:

  • Harsh bleach or strong chemicals
    These may discolor fabrics, degrade mattress materials, and leave strong residual smell.
  • Excess water or soaking
    A mattress dries slowly. Too much liquid can sink deep inside, leading to long-lasting odor or dampness.
  • Steam cleaning (for many mattresses)
    High heat and moisture can sometimes affect foam, adhesives, or internal materials.
  • Strong fragrances alone
    Sprays or perfumes may mask odor temporarily but often don’t remove it from the fabric.

When in doubt, check the care tag on your mattress for any specific cleaning warnings.

How Can I Remove Urine Smell From a Mattress?

Even after cleaning, a light smell can linger. To address odor:

  • Repeat a light vinegar solution clean
    White vinegar diluted in water (blotted, not soaked) can help neutralize odor.
  • Use extra baking soda
    Cover the area with baking soda, leave for 8–24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Air out the mattress
    If possible, place the mattress in a well-ventilated room. Natural airflow can help carry odors away over time.

Persistent smell after several attempts may be difficult to remove completely, especially from deep inside thick mattresses.

How Do I Protect My Mattress From Future Urine Stains?

Once you’ve gone through the effort of cleaning, it’s understandable to want to avoid a repeat.

Common protective steps include:

  • Using a waterproof mattress protector
    This creates a barrier so liquids don’t soak into the mattress.
  • Layering absorbent pads over the fitted sheet
    Helpful for children, pets, or anyone prone to nighttime accidents.
  • Spot-checking regularly
    If you notice any dampness or odor, addressing it quickly often keeps it from becoming a set-in problem.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points to remember about “What Can I Use To Clean Urine From Mattress”:

  • Start with basics: Cold water, mild dish soap, white vinegar, and baking soda are usually enough for most urine accidents.
  • Blot, don’t scrub: Press to absorb liquid and avoid pushing urine deeper into the mattress.
  • Use baking soda generously: It helps draw out moisture and reduce odor.
  • Be cautious with strong products: Bleach, heavy perfumes, and excessive moisture can cause damage or long-lasting smells.
  • Spot-test stronger cleaners: If using diluted hydrogen peroxide on light stains, always test a hidden area first.
  • Protect for next time: Waterproof covers and absorbent layers can keep future accidents from reaching the mattress surface.

Handled calmly and quickly, a urine accident does not have to ruin your mattress. With a few simple ingredients and careful steps, most people can clean the area, lessen odor, and keep their bed comfortable and usable.