Having an accident and ending up with urine on a mattress is a fairly common and unpleasant problem. To effectively remove urine from a mattress, follow these steps as soon as possible: Remove any bedding and wash it, blot the affected area with paper towels or a dry cloth, apply a mixture of vinegar and water, sprinkle baking soda over the area, and let the mattress air out. After these basic steps, you may need to follow up with additional treatments or deodorizers depending on the severity of the stain and odor.
Immediate Actions After the Incident
When you first discover urine on your mattress, acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome. The goal is to prevent the urine from soaking deep into the mattress fibers where it can cause prolonged odors and damage.
Step 1: Remove and Wash Bedding
Immediately strip the bed of all sheets, mattress protectors, and any other coverings. Wash these items in the washing machine, using hot water and a laundry detergent that contains enzymes, which are effective for breaking down protein-based stains like urine. If you have a laundry pre-treater, use it on any affected spots before washing.
Step 2: Blot Up Excess Urine
Get paper towels or a dry, white cloth to blot up as much urine as possible from the mattress. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the urine deeper into the mattress. Press down firmly to absorb moisture, and continue blotting with fresh towels or cloths until no more moisture can be absorbed.
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
Cleaning Solutions for Urine Removal
Using the right cleaning solution is crucial to neutralize the urine and remove both the stain and odor. You have several options, each with its own method of application.
Vinegar and Water Solution
Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and can help to break down the urine. Spray the affected area thoroughly, ensuring that the mixture lightly soaks into the mattress. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then blot dry. Avoid saturating the mattress, as this can lead to mold or mildew.
Baking Soda
After using the vinegar solution and blotting the area dry, sprinkle baking soda over the stain. This helps to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Leave a generous amount of baking soda on the stain for several hours or even overnight if possible.
Enzyme Cleaner
For especially persistent odors or stains, you might consider using an enzyme-based cleaner, which you can find at pet stores or online. Follow the instructions on the cleaner; typically, you’ll apply it to the affected area, let it sit, then blot or vacuum it up.
Additional Stain and Odor Removal Tips
If you’ve followed the above steps and still notice a lingering odor or see the stain, these additional tips may help.
Hydrogen Peroxide
You can also try a cleaning solution made from 8 ounces of hydrogen peroxide, a few drops of dish soap, and a few drops of baking soda. Mix and apply directly to the stain, being cautious not to over-wet the mattress. Hydrogen peroxide has bleaching properties, so it’s best to test this on an inconspicuous part of the mattress first.
Commercial Products
If you prefer to use a commercial product, there are many cleaners specifically designed to tackle pet stains and odors that are also effective on human urine. Be sure to check that the product is safe for use on mattresses and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Airing Out and Drying the Mattress
No matter which cleaning method you use, drying the mattress thoroughly is crucial. Here’s how to ensure your mattress is dry and fresh:
Expose to Sunlight and Air
If possible, take the mattress outside to a sunny spot. Sunlight naturally disinfects and helps with odor removal. Fresh air can also help to dissipate any lingering smells. If it’s not possible to take your mattress outside, you can air it by keeping the windows open or using fans to circulate air around the room.
Use of Fans
Ceiling fans or standing fans directed at the mattress can speed up the drying process. Ensure to turn the mattress over after the top side is dry, so that both the sides receive air and dry evenly.
Consider using a Dehumidifier or Space Heater
In humid environments, a dehumidifier can help draw out moisture from the mattress, preventing mold or mildew from forming. Similarly, a space heater can help to dry the mattress faster, but be sure to keep it at a safe distance to avoid any risk of fire.
Maintenance and Prevention
Once your mattress is clean and dry, consider how to protect it from future accidents. A waterproof mattress protector or pad is a wise investment; they’re designed to protect your mattress from liquids and can be easily washed and replaced in case of future incidents.
Additionally, regular airing out of your mattress can help prevent any unseen moisture from causing issues, and using natural deodorizers like baking soda can help maintain freshness.
Finishing Thoughts
Getting urine out of a mattress can be an unpleasant task, but it’s not impossible. Quick action, the right cleaning solutions, and thorough drying are key to eliminating the urine, stain, and associated odors. Remember that protecting your mattress with a waterproof cover can save time and effort in the future, and routine mattress maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your mattress and ensuring a clean, hygienic sleep environment.
