Getting the pee smell out of a mattress can be challenging, but with the right approach, it’s certainly doable. For a quick answer, you can eliminate the smell by blotting up as much urine as possible, then using a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and possibly laundry detergent to clean the area. This should be followed by a thorough air-dry. Now, let’s delve into the details so you can tackle odors and stains effectively.
Initial Cleanup Steps
Blotting the Area
Before you do anything else, it’s crucial to blot up as much of the urine as possible. Using clean, dry towels or paper towels, press firmly into the mattress to absorb the moisture. Avoid rubbing the spot, as this can spread the urine deeper into the mattress layers.
Rinsing with Water
After blotting, lightly rinse the affected area with cool water. Again, be cautious not to over-saturate the mattress. Blot out the added water with more towels to keep the mattress as dry as possible during this stage.
Homemade Cleaning Solutions and Commercial Products
Vinegar and Baking Soda Method
Vinegar is an excellent natural deodorizer and disinfectant. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly spritz the mattress where the accident occurred. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before blotting again. Next, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the area and allow it to sit for several hours, or even overnight if possible. The baking soda absorbs odors and draws out moisture. Vacuum the baking soda up afterwards, ensuring your vacuum’s filter is clean so the smell doesn’t transfer.
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
Enzyme Cleaners
For an even more effective solution, consider using commercial enzyme cleaners. These products contain natural enzymes that break down the compounds in urine that cause odors and stains. Follow the instructions on the product, usually involving applying the cleaner to the stain, letting it sit, and then blotting or vacuuming it up.
Deep Cleaning Techniques
Using a Carpet Cleaner
Some people turn to carpet cleaners with upholstery attachments for a deeper clean. If you decide to use one of these machines, use it with an enzyme cleaner or a specialized upholstery shampoo designed for pet odors and stains. Be sure to use as little liquid as possible to avoid soaking the mattress.
Professional Cleaning
When DIY methods fail, or if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn situation, professional cleaners may be a good investment. They have powerful equipment and specialized solutions that can treat the pee smell and remove any persistent stains.
Prevention and Protection
Waterproof Mattress Protectors
Once you’ve cleaned the mattress, consider using a waterproof mattress protector to prevent future accidents from penetrating into the mattress. This can be particularly helpful for children’s beds or if pets share the bed.
Regular Maintenance
Even if no accidents occur, it’s good practice to vacuum your mattress regularly and to air it out when possible, maintaining a fresh environment that can deter unnoticed odors from developing.
Handling Persistent Odors and Stains
Natural Sunlight and Fresh Air
Weather permitting, taking your mattress outside to benefit from natural sunlight and fresh air can work wonders in removing lingering odors. UV rays are natural disinfectants, and the breeze can help air out any remaining scent.
Repeating Cleaning Processes
Sometimes, eliminating the pee smell from a mattress requires a second or even a third cleaning attempt. If the odor persists, let the mattress dry fully and then repeat the cleaning method you found most effective.
Considerations for Different Types of Mattresses
Memory Foam and Other Absorbent Materials
Mattresses made from memory foam or other highly absorbent materials may require extra care, as they can hold onto moisture and smells more stubbornly. With these, it is vital to use as little liquid as possible during cleaning to avoid deep saturation.
Traditional Spring Mattresses
With innerspring mattresses, it’s crucial to ensure the interior of the mattress is completely dry after cleaning to prevent rusting of the springs and mildew growth.
Finishing Thoughts
Dealing with a pee-soaked mattress can be quite the ordeal, but with patience and the proper techniques, you can bring your mattress back to a fresh, odor-free state. From blotting to using household ingredients or commercial products for cleaning, there are several effective ways to tackle the problem. Remember, protection like waterproof mattress covers and regular maintenance can also play a significant role in keeping your mattress in its best condition for years to come. Whether it’s an isolated incident or an ongoing challenge, especially with young children or pets, knowing how to properly clean and deodorize your mattress can make all the difference for a good night’s sleep.
