How to Get Urine Out of a Mattress

Accidents happen — whether from children, pets, or nighttime mishaps. The real challenge is how to clean a mattress thoroughly without harming its materials (foam, springs, covers) or affecting its lifespan. In this guide, we’ll walk you through tested, safe, effective methods — from immediate action to deep cleanup — plus prevention tips to keep your mattress fresh and hygienic.

Step-by-Step: Cleaning Urine from a Mattress

1. Immediate Action (Act Quickly)

• Blot, don’t rub. Use clean, absorbent towels or paper towels to soak up as much liquid as you can. Press firmly, repeatedly, changing towels as they saturate.

• Lift & position. If possible, tilt the mattress or lean it upright so that gravity helps drain excess moisture.

• Get ventilation going. Open windows, turn on fans, or use a dehumidifier to help evaporation.

2. Mild Cleaning (For Light / Recent Stains)

Materials you’ll need:

• Baking soda

• Mild dish soap or enzyme cleaner

• Spray bottle with water

• Clean cloths / microfiber towels

• Vacuum cleaner with upholstery/nozzle attachment

Procedure:

1. Dilute cleaner. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water (or use a commercial enzyme cleaner formulated for fabrics).

2. Lightly mist the area. Don’t saturate deeply — you just want to reach the surface.

3. Blot the stain. Press with clean towels to lift the stain and moisture.

4. Sprinkle baking soda. After blotting, layer baking soda over the damp area; it helps neutralize odor and absorb residual moisture.

5. Leave 8–12 hours. Let the baking soda sit; the area should feel dry or slightly cool to the touch.

6. Vacuum. Use upholstery or nozzle attachment to suction up baking soda residue thoroughly.

3. Deeper Cleaning (For Older / Larger Stains)

Recommended cleaning agent: Enzyme cleaners (urease / protease based) or hydrogen peroxide + baking soda mix (with caution)

Procedure:

1. Test first. Try cleaner on a small, inconspicuous spot (edge) to check for discoloration or material reaction.

2. Apply enzyme cleaner. Spray or gently pour a modest amount over the stained area. Enzyme cleaners break down urea / proteins rather than just masking odors.

3. Let dwell. Allow 15–30 minutes (or per product instructions) for enzymatic action.

4. Blot thoroughly. Use clean towels to absorb lifted residue.

5. Dry with airflow. After blotting, keep the mattress in a well-ventilated area, perhaps prop up and use a fan/room heater to speed drying.

6. Repeat if needed. For stubborn stains, you might need a second round.

Optional: For a DIY mix: ½ cup hydrogen peroxide (3%) + 1 tbsp baking soda + a drop of dish soap. Do not over-saturate; always test first.

4. Deodorizing & Final Touches

• Once the stain is dry, sprinkle a fresh layer of baking soda over the area, leave a few hours, then vacuum.

• Use a fabric-safe, non-saturated mist of vinegar solution (50/50 water + white vinegar) to neutralize odor — lightly mist, then blot (some caution: vinegar smell dissipates).

• If mattress has a removable cover/zipper, remove and wash per fabric instructions (usually cool wash, gentle detergent).

• Let the mattress air out in sunlight (if possible) or in fresh air before remaking the bed.

Precautions & Tips

• Don’t over-wet. Excess liquid can seep into foam cores or coils, causing mold, mildew, odors, or breakdown.

• Avoid harsh chemicals. Bleach or strong detergents can degrade foams, fabrics, adhesives.

• Always test first. Try any cleaner on a hidden seam or rear edge.

• Dry thoroughly. Use fans, dehumidifier, or sunlight; residual moisture leads to mold growth.

• Use mattress protectors. A waterproof or absorbent mattress protector significantly reduces stain risk and simplifies cleanup.

• Act fast. The sooner you blot, the less the stain sets (proteins bind over time).

 Why Some Stains Persist

1. Deep penetration. Liquid seeps into foam core layers or beneath fabric casing.

2. Incomplete cleaning. If only surface stains are addressed, interior residues remain.

3. Poor drying. Trapped moisture becomes source for odor, mold, or discoloration.

4. Chemical damage. Harsh cleaners may degrade fibers, causing yellowing or brittleness.

 References & Insights from Experts / Mattress Brands

• Many mattress brand blogs (e.g. Simba, Emma, Eve) advise using enzyme cleaners and warn against saturation of foam cores.

• Upholstery & mattress care guides from textile specialists emphasize blot-first, test-cleaner, and airflow drying.

• Some mattress warranties explicitly state that damage / stains from liquids might void warranty if improper cleaning used — always follow manufacturer guidance.