How to Clean a Mattress with Urine: A Step-by-Step Guide

Accidents happen. If you have kids, pets, or even just enjoy breakfast in bed, you already know that mattresses don’t always stay spotless. The important thing isn’t stressing over it — it’s acting quickly and handling it the right way. I’ve dealt with this more than once, and I can tell you that timing and technique make all the difference. If you respond fast and follow the right steps, you can completely remove both the stain and the smell.

Let’s go through this properly so you can fix the problem without damaging your mattress.

Step 1: Blot the Area (Act Fast)

The moment you notice the urine, don’t wait. Grab paper towels or a clean, dry cloth and start pressing down on the spot. Your goal is simple — absorb as much liquid as possible before it sinks deeper into the mattress layers.

Do not scrub. I know the first instinct is to rub hard, but that actually pushes the urine further inside. Instead, press firmly and hold for a few seconds at a time. Keep switching to dry sections of the towel so you’re always absorbing, not spreading.

If you’re dealing with a dried stain, don’t worry. It’s still fixable. It just means you’ll need to spend a little more time loosening and lifting what has already settled into the fabric.

Step 2: Use a Vinegar Solution

Once you’ve soaked up the excess moisture, it’s time to treat what’s left behind — especially the smell. Urine odor doesn’t just sit on the surface; it settles into the fibers. That’s why vinegar works so well. It naturally breaks down the compounds that cause the odor.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the affected area so it’s damp but not drenched. You don’t want to soak your mattress. Too much liquid can make drying harder later.

Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This waiting period is important. It gives the solution time to neutralize the odor and loosen any remaining residue.

Step 3: Blot Again (Yes, More Blotting)

After the vinegar has done its job, go back in with a clean cloth and start blotting again. You’re now removing both the vinegar mixture and any remaining urine particles it pulled up.

Again, press — don’t rub. You’re lifting moisture out, not grinding it in. At this stage, you’re not trying to completely dry the mattress. You’re simply reducing the dampness as much as possible before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Apply Baking Soda (The Secret Weapon)

This is the step that truly makes a difference. Baking soda absorbs moisture and odors incredibly well. Sprinkle a generous amount over the entire treated area. Don’t be shy with it — cover the whole spot evenly.

Now leave it alone. Let it sit for at least 8 hours. Overnight is even better. The longer it stays, the more moisture and odor it pulls out from deep inside the mattress.

If you’ve ever noticed how baking soda freshens refrigerators, it works the same way here — it draws out and traps unwanted smells.

Step 5: Vacuum It Up

Once the baking soda has fully dried and done its job, vacuum it thoroughly. Use the upholstery attachment so you can clean the surface properly without damaging the fabric.

Go over the area multiple times. You don’t want any powder left behind. Take your time here — a careful vacuuming makes the mattress feel clean and fresh again.

Step 6: Air It Out

Even if everything looks dry, give your mattress time to breathe. Open the windows or turn on a fan to increase airflow in the room. Air circulation helps remove any remaining moisture inside the layers.

Make sure the mattress is completely dry before putting sheets back on. Trapped moisture can lead to mildew, and that’s something you definitely want to avoid.

If possible, let it air out for several hours. Fresh air speeds up the final drying process and leaves everything feeling refreshed.

Step 7: Optional Step—Enzymatic Cleaner

If you’ve followed all the steps and you can still detect a faint smell, this is where an enzymatic cleaner comes in. These cleaners are designed to break down the proteins in urine that cause lingering odors.

Lightly spray the area, let it sit according to the product instructions, and then blot away the excess. You don’t need to oversaturate — just enough for it to work.

In most cases, if you acted quickly and used vinegar and baking soda properly, you won’t even need this step. But it’s helpful to know it’s an option.

FAQs

How soon should I clean urine off the mattress?

Immediately. The faster you respond, the easier it is to prevent deep staining and strong odors. Urine can sink into mattress fibers quickly, so acting right away saves you a lot of effort later.

Can I use regular soap and water?

Soap and water may clean the surface, but they won’t fully remove the smell trapped inside. Odor molecules need to be neutralized, not just washed. That’s why vinegar or an enzymatic cleaner works much better.

What if the urine has already dried?

It’s still treatable. You can follow the same process — vinegar solution, blotting, baking soda, and if needed, an enzymatic cleaner. It may take a little more patience, but it absolutely works.

Final Thoughts of How to Clean a Mattress with Urine

Cleaning urine from a mattress might feel overwhelming at first, but it’s completely manageable when you handle it step by step. The key is acting fast, avoiding excessive moisture, and allowing enough drying time.

When you use vinegar to neutralize odors, baking soda to absorb moisture, and proper airflow to dry everything thoroughly, you’re not just covering up the smell — you’re removing it properly.

With the right approach, your mattress can feel and smell fresh again, even after an accident.