How To Get Pee Out Of Mattress (step-by-step Guide)

Okay, let’s be honest. We’ve all been there, right? That moment of sheer panic, followed by a sinking feeling, when you discover… a little accident on your mattress. Whether it’s a rogue juice box spill, a nighttime potty training mishap, or, ahem, something a little more… mature… it happens to the best of us. But before you start envisioning a mattress graveyard and a trip to the furniture store, take a deep breath! Getting pee out of a mattress is totally doable, and dare I say, it can even be a bit of an adventure. Think of it as a little home spa treatment for your sleep sanctuary!
This isn’t just about cleaning; it’s about reclaiming your cozy haven and proving that life’s little oopsies don’t have to be permanent stains. So grab your cleaning supplies, put on your most optimistic playlist, and let’s dive into this mission of mattress rescue!
Your Mattress’s Best Friend: The Emergency Spill Kit
First things first, let’s assemble our superhero squad of cleaning supplies. You probably already have most of these lurking in your cupboards. No need for fancy, expensive stuff! We’re going for effectiveness and accessibility here.
Gather Your Allies:
- Paper towels (the more, the merrier!)
- White vinegar (your trusty odor-neutralizer)
- Baking soda (the ultimate absorbent and deodorizer)
- A spray bottle (for a nice, even application)
- A gentle dish soap or laundry detergent (just a drop!)
- Cool water
- A clean, dry towel
- Optional: An enzymatic cleaner (for really stubborn stains, but we’ll get to that!)
See? Nothing too intimidating. You’re already halfway there!
Operation: Absorb & Conquer
The key to tackling any liquid spill, especially pee, is to act FAST. The longer it sits, the deeper it’ll sink into those precious mattress fibers. So, put on your detective hat and let’s get to work!

Step 1: Blot, Don’t Rub!
This is CRUCIAL. Imagine you’re trying to gently coax a shy woodland creature out of hiding. You wouldn’t go in there with a broom, would you? Nope! You’d be gentle and patient. So, grab a stack of paper towels and start blotting the wet area. Press down firmly, but avoid any aggressive rubbing, which can push the liquid deeper into the mattress. Keep swapping out your paper towels for fresh ones until you’re no longer picking up any moisture. You’re like a highly efficient sponge-wielding ninja!
Step 2: The Vinegar Power-Up
Now for our secret weapon: white vinegar! Don’t worry, the smell dissipates as it dries, and it’s a superhero at neutralizing those not-so-pleasant pee odors. Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and cool water in your spray bottle. Lightly mist the affected area. You don’t want to soak the mattress again, just give it a good, even coating. Think of it as a refreshing mist for your mattress after a long day.
Let this vinegar solution sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. This gives the vinegar time to work its magic, breaking down those odor-causing molecules. While you wait, maybe hum a little victory tune. You’re doing great!

Step 3: The Baking Soda Blanket
This is where things get fun. Baking soda is like a tiny, powdery miracle worker. It’s an incredible absorbent and a fantastic deodorizer. Once the vinegar has had its moment, generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire damp area. Don’t be shy! You want a good, thick layer, like you’re tucking your mattress in for a cozy nap in a baking soda slumber party.
Now, here’s the patient part. You need to let this baking soda do its thing for at least several hours, or ideally, overnight. The longer it sits, the more it will absorb any remaining moisture and neutralize those lingering odors. You might even hear it gently fizzing – that’s the sound of clean happening!
The Grand Reveal: Vacuum & Assess
After your baking soda has worked its magic, it’s time for the grand finale. Grab your vacuum cleaner with the upholstery attachment.

Step 4: Vacuum Away the Evidence!
Gently vacuum up all the dried baking soda. You’ll be amazed at how much moisture and odor it has absorbed. It’s like magic dust disappearing before your eyes! Give the area a good thorough vacuuming to ensure you get every last grain.
Step 5: The Final Inspection (and Optional Encore)
Once the baking soda is gone, take a good look at your mattress. Is the stain gone? Does it smell fresh? Hopefully, the answer is a resounding YES! If you notice a faint lingering stain or smell, don’t despair. You can repeat the vinegar and baking soda process. Or, for really tough cases, you might consider an enzymatic cleaner. These cleaners are specifically designed to break down organic stains and odors. Follow the product instructions carefully.
If you’re dealing with a really old or set-in stain, you might need a little more persistence. But remember, you’ve got this! Think of it as a badge of honor – you’ve tackled a challenge and emerged victorious.

Why This Is Actually Kinda Fun
Okay, I know what you might be thinking. “Fun? Cleaning pee out of a mattress? Are you kidding me?” But hear me out! There’s a real sense of accomplishment that comes with restoring something valuable. It’s like a mini DIY project that has a huge payoff: a clean, fresh-smelling bed. Plus, think of the money you’re saving by not having to buy a new mattress! This is about empowering yourself with practical skills and proving that you can handle life’s little messes with grace and effectiveness.
And let’s not forget the joy of a truly comfortable night’s sleep. Knowing that your mattress is clean and fresh can actually enhance your relaxation and dreams. So, while the process might not be a laugh riot, the outcome is pure bliss!
Keep the Learning Spark Alive!
This little mattress rescue mission is just one example of how learning practical cleaning tips can make your life so much smoother and more enjoyable. There’s a whole world of home hacks and DIY solutions out there waiting for you to discover. Don’t stop here! Explore other cleaning challenges, learn new techniques, and empower yourself with the knowledge to keep your home a sanctuary. You’ve already taken the first step by reading this, and that’s awesome! Keep that curiosity buzzing, and you’ll be amazed at what else you can conquer.
