Accidents happen, especially when it comes to young children or even pets. One common mishap is finding urine stains on a mattress. Whether it’s a bed-wetting incident or an accident during potty training, dealing with pee on a mattress can be unpleasant. However, with a prompt and effective approach, you can successfully remove urine stains and odor from your mattress. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process on how to get pee out of a mattress, ensuring cleanliness and freshness.

Urine stains on a mattress can be a cause for concern. Not only do they leave unsightly marks, but if not addressed promptly, they can also lead to permanent damage, lingering odors, and potential health hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action when you discover a urine stain on your mattress.
What will you need
To effectively remove urine stains from a mattress, you will need the following items:
- Absorbent materials: Towels or paper towels to soak up the urine.
- Spray bottle: To mix and apply the cleaning solution.
- White vinegar: A natural cleaning agent that helps break down stains and eliminate odor.
- Dish soap: Use a mild dish soap to create a cleaning solution.
- Water: To dilute the cleaning solution.
- Clean cloth or sponge: To blot and clean the stained area.
- Baking soda: An odor-neutralizing agent that absorbs and eliminates unwanted smells.
- Enzyme cleaner: Specifically designed to target and break down urine stains and odor.
- Fans or good air circulation: To aid in drying the mattress thoroughly.
- Mattress protector or waterproof cover: To prevent future incidents and protect the mattress.
Having these items ready before you start the cleaning process will ensure that you can tackle the urine stains effectively and efficiently.
Step 1: Absorb the Urine
The first step in dealing with a urine stain on a mattress is to absorb as much urine as possible. Grab a stack of absorbent materials such as towels or paper towels and place them over the stained area. Gently press down on the towels, allowing them to soak up the urine. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the stain, as this may cause it to spread further.
Step 2: Treat the Stain
After absorbing the excess urine, it’s time to treat the stain itself. You can create a DIY cleaning solution using common household items. In a spray bottle, mix equal parts of white vinegar, dish soap, and water. Shake the mixture well and then spray it onto the stained area of the mattress. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes to loosen the stain.
Next, take a clean cloth or sponge and gently blot the stain. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this may push the stain deeper into the mattress fibers. Continue blotting until you notice the stain starting to lift.
Step 3: Neutralize Odor
Urine odor can be persistent and unpleasant. To tackle this issue, reach for a trusted odor-neutralizing agent: baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the affected area of the mattress. Baking soda has excellent absorbent properties and will help eliminate the odor. Leave the baking soda on the mattress overnight to allow it to work its magic.
Step 4: Deep Clean the Mattress
To ensure a thorough cleaning, it’s important to use an enzyme cleaner specifically designed to break down urine stains and odor. Enzyme cleaners contain enzymes that target and neutralize the proteins in urine, eliminating both the stain and the odor.
Carefully follow the instructions on the enzyme cleaner product. Typically, you will need to saturate the stained area with the cleaner and allow it to sit for a specified amount of time. Afterward, use a clean cloth to blot the area and remove any excess moisture.
Step 5: Drying the Mattress
Proper drying is crucial to prevent mold or mildew from developing. Ensure the mattress is placed in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. You can use fans or open windows to expedite the drying process. Avoid putting sheets or covers back on the mattress until it is completely dry.
Step 6: Prevent Future Incidents
Prevention is key to avoiding future urine stains on your mattress. Consider using a mattress protector or a waterproof cover to provide an additional barrier against accidents. These protective layers are designed to be easily removable and washable, allowing for quick cleanups and safeguarding your mattress from further damage.
Additionally, establishing a routine for mattress maintenance is essential. Regularly vacuuming the mattress, rotating it every few months, and conducting periodic spot cleaning can help keep your mattress fresh and clean.
Conclusion
While finding urine stains on a mattress can be disheartening, the good news is that with the right approach, you can successfully remove them. By promptly absorbing the urine, treating the stain, neutralizing the odor, deep cleaning the mattress, ensuring proper drying, and implementing preventive measures, you can restore your mattress to its former cleanliness and freshness.
Remember, accidents happen, but by following these steps and being prepared, you can handle the situation efficiently and ensure a clean sleeping environment for yourself and your loved ones.
FAQs
1. Can I use bleach to remove urine stains from a mattress? It is not recommended to use bleach on a mattress, as it can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. Opt for safer alternatives like vinegar, dish soap, and enzyme cleaners.
2. What if the urine stain has been on the mattress for a long time? Old urine stains can be more challenging to remove, but it’s still worth trying the steps mentioned in this article. Enzyme cleaners are particularly effective in breaking down old stains and eliminating odor.
3. Are there any professional services available for mattress cleaning? Yes, professional mattress cleaning services are available and can be a convenient option if you prefer to leave the task to experts. They have specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to tackle tough stains and odors.
4. How can I remove urine smell from the mattress? To remove urine smell from a mattress, you can follow the steps mentioned in this article, including using vinegar, baking soda, and enzyme cleaners. These solutions help neutralize the odor-causing compounds in urine.
5. Is it possible to prevent urine stains on mattresses completely? While accidents can still happen, you can minimize the risk of urine stains by using mattress protectors or waterproof covers. These protective layers act as a barrier, preventing urine from reaching the mattress directly.