What To Use To Get Urine Out Of a Mattress: Practical FAQ Guide

If you’re searching for “What To Use To Get Urine Out Of a Mattress,” you’re likely dealing with a fresh accident or an old stain that won’t go away. This guide walks you through the safest, most common household solutions, how to use them, and what to avoid so you can clean your mattress without damaging it.

What should I use first when urine gets on a mattress?

The first thing to use is not a cleaner, but plain, absorbent towels or paper towels.

  1. Blot, don’t rub. Gently press down to soak up as much urine as possible. Rubbing can push moisture deeper into the mattress.
  2. Remove bedding immediately. Wash sheets and covers separately according to their care labels.
  3. Once you’ve absorbed what you can, move on to a cleaning solution.

Starting with blotting makes anything else you use to get urine out of a mattress more effective.

What To Use To Get Urine Out Of a Mattress (Most Common Options)

Here are the most frequently used household ingredients and what they do:

  • Mild dish soap + cold water – basic cleaning and light odor removal
  • White vinegar + water – helps break down urine and neutralize smells
  • Baking soda – absorbs moisture and lingering odors
  • Hydrogen peroxide (diluted) – can help with tougher, dried stains
  • Enzymatic cleaner (general type) – often used for organic stains like urine

These can be used alone or in combination, depending on how fresh or set-in the urine is.

How do I clean fresh urine from a mattress step by step?

1. Blot the area

Use clean towels to soak up as much liquid as possible. Keep blotting until the area feels only slightly damp.

2. Use a vinegar and water solution

A common mix is:

  • 1 part white vinegar
  • 1–2 parts cold water
  • A small amount of mild dish soap (optional)

Lightly spray or dab this solution onto the stained area, making sure the mattress is damp but not soaked through. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

3. Blot again

Use dry towels to remove excess moisture. This helps pull the urine and cleaner out of the mattress surface.

4. Apply baking soda

Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the area. Leave it on for several hours, or ideally overnight, to absorb odors and remaining moisture.

5. Vacuum thoroughly

Once the baking soda is completely dry, vacuum it up. This often removes most of the smell and visible staining from fresh urine.

What if the urine stain is old or already dry?

Dried urine can be more stubborn. You can still use many of the same ingredients, but you may need stronger action.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide?

Many people use a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution on older stains:

  • A common home mixture is hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and a small amount of mild dish soap.

This may help lift discoloration and odor from set-in urine, but:

  • Test a small hidden spot first. Hydrogen peroxide can sometimes lighten fabric or mattress materials.
  • Use sparingly and avoid soaking the mattress.

Will an enzymatic cleaner help?

General enzymatic cleaners are often used on organic stains. They are designed to break down components in urine that cause odors.

  • Always follow the instructions on the product label.
  • Test on a small area before using over a wider spot.

These can be especially helpful for older or repeated accidents.

What should I avoid using on a urine-stained mattress?

Some products can do more harm than good:

  • Harsh chemicals or strong bleach – may damage fabrics or mattress materials and leave strong odors.
  • Too much liquid of any kind – soaking the mattress deeply can trap moisture inside, which is hard to dry.
  • Very hot water – can sometimes set stains instead of removing them.

Sticking to mild cleaners and light, controlled application is usually safer for the mattress.

How do I get rid of lingering urine odor?

If the stain looks better but you still notice a smell, focus on odor absorption:

  • Re-apply baking soda and leave it for several hours or overnight.
  • Make sure the room has good airflow to help the mattress dry thoroughly.
  • Repeat the cleaning and baking soda steps if needed for persistent odors.

Smell often improves as the mattress dries completely and any remaining residue is gradually removed.

How can I protect my mattress from future urine stains?

Once the mattress is clean and dry, many sleepers choose:

  • A water-resistant or waterproof mattress protector
  • Easily washable fitted covers or pads

These create a barrier between the mattress and any future spills, making cleanup faster and easier.

✅ Quick Mattress Takeaways

Key points about What To Use To Get Urine Out Of a Mattress

  • Act fast: Blot fresh urine with towels before using any cleaner.
  • Start gentle: Use a vinegar and water solution followed by baking soda for most fresh stains.
  • For old stains: Consider diluted hydrogen peroxide or a general enzymatic cleaner, testing a small area first.
  • Avoid damage: Don’t soak the mattress, and avoid harsh chemicals or very hot water.
  • Dry completely: Good airflow and time are essential to prevent lingering odors.
  • Prevent future issues: A protective cover can make any future cleanup much simpler.

Knowing what to use to get urine out of a mattress helps you act calmly and effectively, keeping your bed cleaner, fresher, and more comfortable over time.