What Gets Pee Out Of a Mattress? Simple Answers and Practical Steps

If you’re searching “What Gets Pee Out Of a Mattress”, you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an old urine stain and odor. This guide explains exactly what works, what to avoid, and how to handle both new and dried stains in a calm, step‑by‑step way.

What Actually Gets Pee Out Of a Mattress?

Urine is made up of water, salts, and waste products that can soak deep into mattress layers. To remove it, you generally need:

  • Something to absorb moisture (like paper towels or clean cloths)
  • A mild cleaning solution to break down the stain (often vinegar and water or gentle dish soap)
  • An odor remover, commonly baking soda
  • Time and airflow for thorough drying

So when people ask “What Gets Pee Out Of a Mattress”, the practical answer is:
Prompt blotting + a gentle cleaning solution + baking soda + complete drying.

How Do You Clean Fresh Pee From a Mattress?

Fresh accidents are usually easier to manage.

Step-by-step for fresh stains

  1. Blot, don’t scrub

    • Use paper towels or a clean cloth to press and absorb as much liquid as possible.
    • Avoid scrubbing, which can push urine deeper into the foam or padding.

  2. Apply a gentle cleaning solution
    A simple option many people use at home:

    • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle or bowl.
    • Lightly spray or dab the area—don’t soak the mattress.
    • The vinegar solution helps lift the stain and reduce odor.

  3. Blot again

    • Press with a clean, dry cloth to remove extra moisture from the cleaning solution.

  4. Use baking soda for odor

    • Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the damp area.
    • Let it sit for several hours, or ideally overnight, so it can absorb odors and excess moisture.

  5. Vacuum thoroughly

    • Once dry, vacuum up all the baking soda.
    • Check for any remaining odor or staining and repeat if needed.

What If the Pee Has Already Dried?

Dried urine stains are tougher because they have set into the mattress fibers and often smell stronger.

Refreshing old stains

  1. Lightly re-dampen the area

    • Mist the stained spot with the vinegar and water mix.
    • The moisture helps “reactivate” the stain so it can be lifted.

  2. Let the solution sit

    • Leave it on the stain for 10–15 minutes to work on the discoloration and odor.

  3. Blot well

    • Press with a clean cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.

  4. Add baking soda

    • Cover the area with baking soda and leave it for several hours or overnight.

  5. Vacuum and assess

    • Vacuum up the baking soda.
    • For very stubborn odors or darker stains, a second round is sometimes needed.

What Gets Pee Out Of a Mattress Without Damaging It?

Many people worry about ruining their mattress while trying to clean it. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Safe, mattress-friendly options

  • Mild vinegar-and-water mix

    • Commonly used for light cleaning and deodorizing
    • Works on both memory foam and traditional mattresses when used sparingly

  • Gentle dish soap and water

    • Just a small amount of soap in warm water
    • Good for spot cleaning if you don’t like the smell of vinegar

  • Baking soda

    • Widely used to neutralize odors
    • Non-abrasive and generally safe for fabrics and foams

🚫 Avoid:

  • Excess water (can soak deep and lead to lingering dampness)
  • Harsh chemicals or strong solvents that may degrade foams or fabrics
  • Scrubbing aggressively, which can damage the mattress surface

How Long Does It Take to Get Pee Out Of a Mattress?

The active cleaning may only take 15–30 minutes, but drying can take much longer.

  • Allow several hours to overnight for baking soda to sit.
  • Let the mattress air dry fully before putting bedding back on.
  • Good airflow, fans, or open windows can help speed things up.

A mattress that still feels cool or slightly damp to the touch is not fully dry and may hold odor.

How Can You Prevent Future Pee Stains?

Once you’ve figured out what gets pee out of a mattress, it’s natural to want to avoid cleaning it again.

Common prevention steps include:

  • Using a waterproof or water-resistant mattress protector
  • Layering absorbent pads (especially for children or pets)
  • Acting quickly when accidents happen to avoid deep, set-in stains

These measures help keep urine on the surface, where it’s easier to clean.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about what gets pee out of a mattress:

  • Immediate blotting is the first and most important step.
  • A vinegar-and-water solution or mild soapy water can help lift stains.
  • Baking soda is widely used to absorb moisture and reduce urine odor.
  • Do not oversoak the mattress; light applications and good blotting are safer.
  • Dried stains can improve with repeated gentle cleaning and thorough drying.
  • Airflow and patience are essential for fully removing moisture and odor.
  • Protective covers make future cleanups quicker and easier.

Handled calmly and step by step, most urine accidents can be significantly cleaned and deodorized, helping your mattress stay usable and comfortable for longer.