How to Get Urine Stains and Smell Out of a Mattress
Accidents happen — whether it’s from kids, pets, or an unexpected spill. But when urine seeps into a mattress, the odor and stains can be tough to remove if not treated right away. The good news? You don’t need expensive cleaners or professional help. With simple home ingredients and a few careful steps, you can get your mattress looking (and smelling) like new again.
Here’s how to remove both the stain and the smell effectively — plus, some pro tips for prevention and long-term freshness.
Step 1: Act Quickly and Blot the Area
If the urine is still fresh, blot the spot immediately with paper towels or an absorbent cloth.
Press down gently to soak up as much liquid as possible — but don’t rub, as that will spread the stain deeper into the fabric.
Keep blotting until the surface feels only slightly damp.
If the stain is old, skip ahead to the deep-cleaning steps below — it’ll still come out with a little extra soaking time.
Step 2: Mix a Natural Cleaning Solution
You’ll need:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp baking soda
Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and shake well. Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in urine, while baking soda lifts odor and breaks down the stain.
Spray generously over the affected area — enough to dampen it without soaking the mattress. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down the odor-causing compounds.
Step 3: Blot Again and Air Dry
After soaking, use a clean towel to blot the vinegar solution from the mattress.
Repeat until the area feels only lightly damp.
Then, leave it to air dry completely — open windows, turn on a fan, or place the mattress in sunlight if possible.
Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and speeds up drying time, which helps prevent mildew or lingering odors.
Step 4: Deodorize with Baking Soda
Once the mattress is fully dry, sprinkle a thick layer of baking soda across the entire stained area.
Leave it on for at least 8 hours (overnight is best) to absorb any leftover moisture and odor.
Then, vacuum the baking soda thoroughly using your upholstery attachment.
This step leaves your mattress fresh, dry, and free from unpleasant smells.
Step 5: For Deep or Old Stains
If the urine has been sitting for a while or left a yellow stain, use this stronger cleaner:
Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
- 1 cup hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- 3 tbsp baking soda
- 1 tsp mild dish soap
Mix in a spray bottle, shake gently, and spray lightly on the stained area.
Let it bubble for a few minutes — this reaction helps lift older stains.
Blot with a clean towel, and repeat once more if needed.
Allow the mattress to dry fully before making the bed again.
Simple Tricks to Remove Mattress Urine Stains — No Harsh Chemicals Needed!
- Use cold water only — warm or hot water can set the stain.
- Never oversaturate the mattress; excess moisture leads to mold.
- Blot, don’t scrub, to avoid spreading the stain.
- Repeat baking soda overnight if odor lingers.
- Add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or eucalyptus) to your final baking soda layer for a light, clean scent.
Deep Clean Routine for Monthly Mattress Care
Even after the mess is gone, your mattress still benefits from regular care.
- Vacuum the entire surface once a month to remove dust and debris.
- Sprinkle baking soda across the top, leave for an hour, then vacuum again.
- Flip or rotate the mattress every three months to prevent wear spots.
- Use a waterproof mattress protector — it saves you from future cleanup.
- Air out your mattress by letting it sit bare for 30 minutes after changing sheets.
These steps keep your mattress smelling fresh and lasting longer.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional Mattress Cleaning
| Cleaning Option | Average Cost | What You Get | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Urine Removal (Home Method) | $5–$10 | Simple household ingredients for odor and stain removal | Small accidents and light cleaning |
| Professional Steam Cleaning | $80–$150 | Deep sanitizing and odor extraction | Deep or set-in stains |
| Full Sanitation Service | $150–$300 | UV sterilization, deodorizing, and anti-bacterial treatment | Large or recurring accidents |
DIY is usually enough for light to medium stains, saving you over 90% compared to pro cleaning. Professionals are best when dealing with multiple or long-standing urine stains.
Quick Grab Mattress Rescue Kit
☐ White vinegar
☐ Baking soda
☐ Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
☐ Dish soap
☐ Spray bottle
☐ Microfiber towels
☐ Vacuum with upholstery tool
Final Thought: Freshness Restored
Getting urine stains and smell out of your mattress doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With just a few pantry staples and patience, you can bring back freshness, comfort, and peace of mind — all without harsh chemicals or costly services.
