How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress

Accidents happen. Whether it’s your child during the night, a pet mishap, or even an adult health issue, waking up to urine on the mattress is never pleasant. But the good news is—it’s completely manageable. Acting quickly can make all the difference when it comes to preventing deep-set stains and lingering odors. The faster you soak up the moisture and begin cleaning, the easier it is to restore your mattress to a fresh, clean state.

To get pee out of a mattress, blot the area, apply a cleaning solution like vinegar or enzyme spray, let it sit, then neutralize odors with baking soda and vacuum once dry.

While home remedies like baking soda, vinegar, and enzyme cleaners are effective for fresh spills, some situations call for a deeper approach. Professional mattress cleaning services or steam cleaning can be especially helpful for set-in stains or large accidents. These methods use high-heat extraction and deep-cleaning equipment to sanitize the mattress more thoroughly than surface-level treatments, making them a great option for those with allergies or sensitive skin.

What You’ll Need to Clean Urine from a Mattress

Before you begin, it’s important to gather the right tools and supplies. Having everything on hand will help you move quickly, which is especially crucial for fresh accidents. Below is a list of items that are not only easy to find but also highly effective for removing urine stains and neutralizing odors.

• White Vinegar – A natural disinfectant that breaks down urine and helps neutralize odors. It’s safe to use on most mattress types and acts as a base for many DIY cleaning solutions.
• Baking Soda – Known for its incredible odor-absorbing and moisture-wicking properties. It works wonders when sprinkled over damp areas, drawing out any remaining liquid and leaving your mattress smelling fresh.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) – A powerful oxidizer that helps lift older or set-in stains. It should be used with care, especially on colored fabrics, as it may cause lightening. It’s most effective when combined with baking soda and dish soap.
• Enzyme Cleaner – Especially useful for pet-related accidents, enzyme-based cleaners break down uric acid crystals in urine, eliminating the source of odors rather than just masking them. They’re a must-have if you’re dealing with frequent incidents.
• Mild Dish Soap – A gentle yet effective option for lifting urine residue and breaking up grease or body oils that may be present in the stained area.
• Clean Cloths or Paper Towels – Use these to blot up as much liquid as possible during each step. Opt for absorbent, lint-free cloths for the best results.
• Spray Bottle – Needed to apply your vinegar solution or enzyme cleaner evenly over the mattress. A fine mist spray bottle gives you more control and prevents over-saturating the area.
• Vacuum with Upholstery Attachment – Once the area has been treated and baking soda has done its job, a vacuum will help remove all traces of powder and trapped debris from the mattress surface
• Essential Oils (Optional) – A few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil can be added to your vinegar or baking soda to leave behind a clean, relaxing scent. These are entirely optional but can make the room smell fresher post-cleaning.

Having these supplies ready before you begin will make the process smoother and more effective. Each item plays a specific role in removing moisture, lifting stains, and eliminating bacteria and odors—leaving your mattress clean, fresh, and ready to use again.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Fresh Pee Out of a Mattress

A urine accident on a mattress is never ideal, but acting quickly and using the right techniques can prevent lasting stains and odors. Follow this comprehensive step-by-step guide to clean up fresh pee from a mattress and restore it to a clean, odor-free state.

1. Blot the Area Immediately

As soon as you notice the accident, grab paper towels or a clean, dry cloth and gently blot the affected area. Press down firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible, but avoid rubbing or scrubbing. Scrubbing can push the urine deeper into the mattress layers, making it harder to remove and increasing the chances of staining or odor lingering. Work from the outside of the wet spot toward the center to prevent the urine from spreading.

2. Apply a Vinegar Cleaning Solution

Next, create a simple but effective cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a spray bottle. Lightly shake to combine. Generously spray the urine-affected area of the mattress. Vinegar not only helps disinfect the surface but also breaks down the compounds in urine that cause odor. Be sure to saturate the area thoroughly, allowing the solution to reach deep into the fabric layers where urine may have seeped.

3. Let It Sit and Soak

Once the vinegar solution has been applied, allow it to sit and soak for 10 to 15 minutes. This dwell time is crucial for the vinegar to neutralize the odor-causing bacteria and dissolve any residual uric acid crystals. Giving the solution time to soak in also ensures that it reaches deeper layers of the mattress where urine may have spread, particularly in memory foam or pillow-top mattresses.

4. Blot Again to Remove Excess Moisture

After the vinegar solution has had time to work, use fresh dry towels or absorbent cloths to blot the area again. Press firmly to lift out as much of the moisture as possible. If needed, repeat the blotting process several times, changing clothes as they become damp. The more moisture you remove at this stage, the quicker your mattress will dry and the less likely odors or mildew will develop.

5. Sprinkle Baking Soda Generously

Now that the area has been treated and blotted, sprinkle a thick, even layer of baking soda over the damp spot. Make sure it fully covers the affected area and extends slightly beyond the edges of the original stain. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and moisture absorber, making it a critical step in removing odors and drawing out any remaining liquid from deep inside the mattress layers.

6. Leave It Overnight

To ensure maximum absorption and deodorizing, let the baking soda sit undisturbed for at least 8 to 10 hours, or ideally overnight. During this time, the baking soda will pull out remaining moisture and neutralize any lingering smell. If possible, keep the room well-ventilated or use a fan to help the mattress dry faster. Avoid placing any bedding or covers back on the mattress until this step is complete.

7. Vacuum Thoroughly

Once the baking soda has done its job, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to thoroughly vacuum the treated area. Make several passes over the surface to ensure that all of the baking soda is removed. Check for any remaining odor or moisture. If the area still smells slightly, you can repeat the vinegar spray and baking soda steps until the odor is fully eliminated.

How to Remove Dried or Set-In Urine Stains

While fresh accidents are easier to treat, dried urine stains pose a greater challenge. Once urine has dried, it often seeps deeper into the mattress layers and binds with fabric fibers, leaving behind stubborn discoloration and unpleasant odors. Addressing dried or set-in stains effectively requires a more powerful approach than simple surface cleaning.

Step-by-Step Guide for Dried Stains

1. Prepare a Powerful Cleaning Solution

Start by mixing a targeted solution that’s safe for mattress fabrics and effective on old stains. In a clean spray bottle, combine the following:

• 8 ounces of hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration)
• 3 tablespoons of baking soda
• A few drops of liquid dish soap (unscented is best)

Shake the mixture gently until the baking soda dissolves completely. This bubbling blend helps break down uric acid, lift old stains, and neutralize odors without damaging the mattress.

2. Saturate the Affected Area

Spray the stained area generously. Ensure the solution penetrates through all the layers affected by the urine. Lightly press on the surface to help the mixture sink into the mattress fabric. If your mattress has a pillow top or thick layers, apply a bit more of the solution to reach deeper into the material.

3. Let the Solution Sit and Work

Allow the mixture to rest on the surface for 30 to 60 minutes. As it foams and reacts with the stain, it will begin lifting the discoloration and neutralizing bacteria that cause odor. The longer it sits, the more effective it becomes, especially on older or more extensive stains.

4. Blot and Air Dry

Use clean, absorbent towels or microfiber cloths to blot the area gently and soak up any remaining moisture. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing. Once blotting is complete, let the mattress air dry completely. This may take several hours depending on airflow and the room temperature. Place a fan nearby or open windows to speed up the drying process. For persistent stains, you may need to repeat this process more than once.

Can You Use a Steam Cleaner on a Mattress?

Steam cleaning is often recommended for deep sanitation, but it is not suitable for all mattress types. The effectiveness of this method depends on your mattress construction and how it reacts to heat and moisture.

Benefits of Steam Cleaning:

• Kills bacteria, viruses, and dust mites using high heat
• Loosens and lifts deep-set urine stains from fabric and foam
• Disinfects without harsh chemicals, making it a greener option

Risks to Consider:

• Excess moisture can damage memory foam, latex, and pillow-top mattresses, potentially leading to mold growth
• Improper drying may result in musty odors or warping of materials
• Not all steam cleaners are suitable for mattress fabrics, especially if they lack an upholstery attachment

If you choose to steam clean, always check your mattress manufacturer’s care instructions first. After cleaning, let the mattress dry completely before putting any sheets or bedding back on. Consider placing the mattress in a well-ventilated room or using a fan to accelerate the drying process.

Tips to Prevent Future Accidents

Once you’ve gone through the effort of removing urine stains and odors, prevention becomes the next priority. Protecting your mattress ensures its longevity and reduces the need for repeated deep cleans.

1. Use a Waterproof Mattress Protector

Invest in a high-quality, waterproof mattress cover. These protectors create a barrier that prevents liquids from soaking into the fabric, making cleanups much faster and more effective. They are essential in households with children, pets, or anyone prone to accidents.

2. Add a Washable Mattress Pad

Layering a machine-washable mattress pad on top of your waterproof cover offers additional protection and comfort. These are easy to remove and clean and can be replaced more affordably than the mattress itself.

3. Encourage Nighttime Habits

For children, support healthy routines that include using the bathroom before bedtime and limiting fluids in the evening. Accidents are common during potty training, but consistency in routine helps minimize incidents.

4. Reinforce Pet Training

If you have pets, maintain clear and regular potty schedules. Provide frequent outdoor breaks and train them to avoid jumping on beds if accidents are still common. Use pet deterrent sprays or boundary training tools when necessary.

When to Call in a Professional Mattress Cleaner

Some situations call for more than household solutions. When urine has deeply penetrated your mattress, or odors persist after several rounds of DIY cleaning, it may be time to bring in a professional. Professional mattress cleaners use specialized equipment and proven methods that reach deep into mattress layers, removing stains and bacteria without damaging the structure or fabric.

You should consider professional cleaning if:

• Odors and stains remain after multiple cleaning attempts
• Urine has soaked into several layers of the mattress
• Someone in the household has allergies or a sensitive respiratory system
• You own a high-value, memory foam, hybrid, or pillow-top mattress that needs extra care
• The mattress is in a commercial space like a hotel, Airbnb, daycare, or healthcare facility, where cleanliness standards must be maintained

At Right Price Carpet Cleaning, we also specialize in professional mattress cleaning. Our team uses advanced equipment and fabric-safe solutions to eliminate deep-set stains, neutralize odors, and extend the life of your mattress. Whether you’re at home or managing a commercial property, RPCC offers reliable, hygienic cleaning that gives you complete peace of mind—without the hassle.

If DIY solutions aren’t delivering results, let our team do the heavy lifting. Your mattress deserves a fresh start.

FAQs About Mattress Urine Stains and Smells

Can I use bleach on a mattress?

No. Bleach is not recommended for cleaning mattresses. Although it’s known for its disinfecting properties, bleach can damage mattress fibers, cause discoloration, and leave behind strong chemical odors that linger for days. It also poses a health risk when used on surfaces where you sleep, as the residue may trigger skin or respiratory irritation. For safer and more effective results, opt for hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or enzyme-based cleaners that are specifically formulated for fabric and upholstery. These alternatives can break down urine components without harming your mattress.

Will the pee smell eventually go away without cleaning?

Unlikely. Urine contains uric acid crystals that are not water-soluble and won’t evaporate over time. In fact, without proper treatment, the smell can become stronger, especially in humid conditions. The odor can also seep deeper into the mattress layers, affecting overall hygiene and air quality in the room. To fully remove the smell, use a combination of baking soda, vinegar, or enzyme cleaners designed to break down the compounds responsible for odor. In commercial spaces like hotels or shared accommodations, fast and thorough cleaning is even more important to maintain guest satisfaction and meet sanitation standards.

What if the urine soaked deep into the mattress?

If urine has penetrated into the core of the mattress, surface cleaning may not be sufficient. The deeper the liquid travels, the harder it becomes to eliminate both stains and odors. For light to moderate soaking, enzyme treatments combined with thorough blotting and air drying can work. However, if multiple layers have been affected, or if there is lingering odor despite repeated cleaning, professional mattress cleaning may be necessary. In some cases, delicate fabrics like wool blends or natural latex may also benefit from dry cleaning, especially when dealing with minor stains or specialty materials that can’t tolerate moisture-based methods.

How long will it take my mattress to dry after cleaning?

On average, a mattress takes 8 to 12 hours to dry after a deep cleaning session. Drying time depends on the amount of moisture used, the type of material, and the airflow in the room. Mattresses with thick padding or memory foam cores may take longer. To speed up the process, use a fan, dehumidifier, or place the mattress in indirect sunlight. Be sure the mattress is completely dry before replacing sheets or bedding, as residual moisture can lead to mold, mildew, or recurring odor problems.

Keep Your Mattress Clean and Fresh for the Long Term

Urine accidents happen—whether from children, pets, illness, or unexpected leaks—but they don’t have to permanently damage your mattress. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of persistence, you can fully remove stains and odors and protect your investment for years to come.

Taking preventative steps like using a waterproof protector, training pets, and keeping a nighttime routine can reduce future issues. And if you ever feel overwhelmed, professional help is always available to handle even the toughest cases.

Your sleep space should be fresh, clean, and comfortable. With the right care, your mattress can stay that way long after the accident is gone.