Cleaning urine from a mattress can be a challenging task but with the right approach, it can be done effectively. To clean urine from a mattress quickly, strip the bed, blot as much of the excess urine as possible using a towel, then prepare a cleaning solution of 50% white vinegar and 50% water, spray or dab onto the stain, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. After that, sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit to absorb odors, and vacuum it up once it’s dry. For stubborn stains or smells, an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet urine may be required. Now, let’s take a deeper look into each step for a more comprehensive understanding.
Detailed Guide to Clean Urine from Mattress
Step 1: Protect Yourself and Remove Bedding
Before you begin the cleaning process, make sure to wear protective gloves. Urine can contain bacteria and other pathogens that are best avoided. Remove all bedding, including sheets, mattress covers, and any additional protective layers, and wash them in the washing machine on a hot cycle with laundry detergent.
Step 2: Blot the Wet Area
If the urine is fresh, immediately blot up as much of it as possible with an absorbent cloth or paper towels. Press down firmly on the wet areas to soak up the moisture. Do not rub, as this can spread the stain and push the urine deeper into the mattress fibers.
Step 3: Prepare and Apply Cleaning Solution
Mix a solution of equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. The acidity of the vinegar breaks down the urine and neutralizes the odor. Spray the solution generously on the stained area, ensuring it penetrates the surface to reach deeper layers. If you don’t have a spray bottle, you can gently dab the solution onto the stain using a cloth.
Our Top 5 Mattress Picks
Updated September 2026EGOHOME 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Firm
Best for most bedrooms. A medium-firm green tea memory foam mattress with a cooling gel layer, delivered rolled in a box.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium firm
- Cooling green tea gel
- CertiPUR-US, fiberglass free
OhGeni Queen Air Mattress with Built-in Pump, 18-Inch Raised
Best for guests and camping. Inflates in about three minutes with the built-in pump and sits 18 inches off the floor, so it feels like a real bed.
- Queen, 18 in raised
- Built-in pump
- 800 lb capacity
- Waterproof PVC
Novilla 6-Inch Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best budget twin. A slim gel memory foam twin that suits kids' rooms, bunk beds and trundles where a thick mattress won't fit.
- Twin, 6 in
- Gel memory foam
- Cooling
- CertiPUR-US
Zinus 8-Inch Green Tea Memory Foam Mattress, Twin
Best-known brand. Zinus's long-running green tea foam design in twin size, with both CertiPUR-US and OEKO-TEX certified materials.
- Twin, 8 in
- Green tea memory foam
- CertiPUR-US & OEKO-TEX
GAESTE 8-Inch Cooling Gel Memory Foam Mattress, Full, Medium Feel
Best for hot sleepers. Cooling gel memory foam with a medium feel, plus a machine-washable, anti-slip cover you can actually clean.
- Full size, 8 in
- Medium feel
- Cooling gel foam
- Washable cover
- Fiberglass free
Step 4: Let the Solution Sit and Blot Again
Allow the vinegar solution to sit for 10-15 minutes to dissolve the stain and eliminate the odor. After the recommended time, blot the area again with a clean, dry cloth to absorb the vinegar and urine residue.
Step 5: Apply Baking Soda
Once the area is damp and not soaking wet, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and will help to absorb any leftover moisture and odors. Let it rest on the surface for several hours or, ideally, overnight.
Step 6: Vacuum Up Baking Soda
After you have let the baking soda sit, vacuum it up thoroughly. Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to ensure all the baking soda is removed. Doing this will also help in lifting any remaining urine particles from the mattress fibers.
Step 7: Sunlight Exposure and Air Drying
If possible, place your mattress outside in direct sunlight. Sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and can help to further eliminate any lingering odors. If moving the mattress isn’t feasible, allow it to air dry by pointing fans towards the damp area or by increasing airflow in the room.
Step 8: Utilize Enzymatic Cleaners for Persistent Stains and Smells
Enzymatic cleaners are specifically designed to break down proteins found in urine. These can be particularly useful for older, set-in stains or strong odors that vinegar and baking soda may not fully remove. Follow the instructions on the enzymatic cleaner you choose, as application methods can vary.
Step 9: Prevent Future Stains
After you have successfully cleaned your mattress, consider investing in a waterproof mattress protector. This will make future incidents much easier to manage and will protect your mattress from a variety of stains and spills.
Additional Tips and Considerations
For Memory Foam Mattresses
Be cautious with liquid cleaning solutions if you have a memory foam mattress, as they are particularly sensitive to moisture. Instead of heavily spraying, gently dab the affected area and use as little liquid as possible.
Handling Old or Dried Urine Stains
For old or dried stains, you may need to repeat the vinegar and baking soda applications several times. Patience and persistence are key, as set-in stains can be stubborn.
Dealing with Strong Urine Odors
If the urine odor remains strong after your initial cleaning, consider using a neutralizing agent such as an odor eliminator spray designed for pet odors. These are often enzymatic as well and can tackle tough smells.
Professional Cleaning Services
When at-home methods do not suffice, or if you’re dealing with a particularly valuable or sensitive mattress, it might be a good idea to hire professional cleaning services. They can offer more advanced and extensive cleaning techniques to rescue your mattress.
Natural and Eco-Friendly Alternatives
There are also numerous eco-friendly and natural urine stain removers available in the market if you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals. Look for products with plant-based ingredients that promise no harmful residues left behind.
Maintain Good Ventilation
Always maintain good ventilation in the room where the mattress is being cleaned to help odors dissipate and to speed up the drying process. Open windows, or use an air purifier to keep the air clean and fresh.
Finishing Thoughts
Dealing with a urine-stained mattress can be distasteful, but swift action and the right cleaning methods can mitigate the damage significantly. Use protective gloves, blot up excess liquid, apply a vinegar solution, cover with baking soda, and vacuum after drying. For persistent issues, a targeted enzymatic cleaner or professional help may be warranted. Prevent future occurrences with a quality mattress protector. Remember that while some effort is required, achieving a fresh and clean mattress again is well within reach with patience and perseverance.
