How to Get Urine Out of a Mattress When Dry: Effective Cleaning Steps and Tips

Last Updated on April 22, 2025

Urine stains on a mattress can be tough to remove, especially if they have already dried. The most effective way to get dried urine out of a mattress is by using gentle cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide to break down both the stain and odor. Using the right cleaning methods can make the process easier and leave your mattress smelling fresh again.

Mattresses are expensive, and no one wants lingering smells or stains in their sleeping space. Whether the accident is from a child, a pet, or another reason, simple household items and a step-by-step approach can help restore the mattress. With some patience and the right products, urine can be removed effectively without damaging the mattress.

Key Takeaways

• Use the right supplies and a step-by-step process for best results.
• DIY and enzymatic cleaners help with stubborn stains and odors.
• Taking preventive steps can protect mattresses from future stains.

Assessing Urine Stains on a Mattress

Urine stains, especially when dried, can leave behind yellow marks and stubborn odors. Knowing how to spot and tell the difference between pet and human sources helps with choosing the right cleaning method.

Identifying Dried Urine Stains

Dried urine stains often appear as light yellow or brown spots on the mattress. The edges may seem darker because of how the liquid spreads. Some stains may be hard to see, but there is usually a lingering smell.

To check for hidden stains, use a flashlight in a dark room. The light can show old stains or areas where liquid has spread. Dried urine can also make the fabric feel stiff.

A dried urine stain may feel different from the clean mattress. Sometimes a slight crust or roughness appears where the stain is thickest. Even if the stain has faded, odors can linger and show where cleaning is needed. Some people use a UV light to find invisible dried urine stains on a mattress.

Distinguishing Pet and Human Urine

Both pet urine and human urine can cause similar stains, but there are a few differences. Pet stains often have a stronger smell because animal urine has more ammonia and other substances. The odor may be sharper or more sour with pet accidents. Cats can leave behind very stubborn smells.

Pet urine stains may also be smaller but more concentrated, since pets tend to urinate in one place. Human urine stains are often larger and more spread out, as people may release more liquid at once.

Pet stains might appear several times in the same area if a pet returns to the spot. The color can range from pale yellow to darker brown depending on age and amount. More severe pet odors may require enzyme cleaners, while human urine may respond to simpler cleaning solutions.

Gathering the Right Cleaning Supplies

Using the right products and tools is important to remove dried urine from a mattress. Specific cleaning solutions work best for breaking down stains and odors, while certain supplies make cleaning easier.

Choosing Effective Cleaning Solutions

The best cleaning solutions for dried urine are those that break down both stains and smells. White vinegar is a common choice. Mixing equal parts of vinegar and water can help loosen and remove dried urine. For tough odors, many people choose baking soda. Sprinkle it over the area to absorb smells and lift stains.

Hydrogen peroxide can help with deeper stains, especially when mixed with a few drops of liquid detergent. It helps lighten old marks and disinfects the area. Enzyme cleaners or enzyme-based detergents are also effective. These break down the proteins found in urine, which removes both stains and odors. Some people add a drop or two of essential oil to mask any lingering smell. Always make sure the product is safe for use on mattresses. For more details on cleaning solutions, visit this step-by-step guide on getting urine out of a mattress.

Essential Tools for Removing Dried Stains

Having the right tools makes cleaning easier. Cleaning gloves protect hands from chemicals and urine. Use a clean, dry towel or absorbent cloth to blot the area after applying cleaning solutions. A spray bottle helps apply liquids evenly.

A vacuum cleaner is helpful if you use baking soda, as it can remove the powder after it has absorbed moisture and odor. Soft-bristled brushes or sponges help work cleaning solutions into the mattress without damaging the fabric. Enzymatic cleaners often come in spray bottles, making them easy to use. Keep all tools nearby before starting to avoid delays and mess. For a complete checklist, check out this comprehensive cleaning guide.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Dried Urine Stains

Dried urine stains on a mattress can cause strong odors and discoloration. The most effective cleaning methods combine blotting, using the right cleaning solutions, and making sure the area is dry before using the mattress again.

Blotting and Absorbing Residual Moisture

Even if the urine is dry, there may be some moisture left deep inside the mattress. Press a clean, dry towel onto the stain. Apply firm pressure to help absorb any leftover liquid. Avoid scrubbing because this can push the stain deeper.

Place a fresh towel or paper towels on the spot and add some weight, such as a stack of books. Leave them for at least 30 minutes. Change towels if they become damp.

This step helps remove as much moisture as possible. Removing urine from a mattress this way prevents new stains from forming when cleaning solutions are added later. The goal is to blot the stain without spreading it or damaging the fabric.

Applying Cleaning Solutions

The most reliable way to clean urine from a mattress is to use a mixture of distilled white vinegar and water. Mix one part vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the affected area. Do not soak the mattress.

After spraying, wait 5–10 minutes. The vinegar helps break down the residues and neutralizes odors. For stubborn stains, sprinkle baking soda over the spot after applying vinegar. Let the baking soda sit for several hours, up to 18 hours for deep cleaning.

Baking soda acts as an odor-eater and lifts stubborn spots. Gently vacuum the area to remove baking soda when finished. For extra help, read detailed steps at this urine stain removal guide.

Rinsing and Drying the Mattress

Once the area looks clean, wipe it with a cloth dampened with plain water. This rinses away any leftovers from the cleaning solution. Carefully blot the area again with a dry towel.

To speed up drying, place a fan near the mattress or open a window for fresh air. Let the mattress dry completely before putting sheets back on. If any smell remains, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda on the area and leave it for a few more hours, then vacuum it up as suggested in this removal guide.

A dry mattress prevents new stains and stops odors from returning. Make sure the bed is fully dry before use to protect against mold and lingering smells.

Using Enzymatic and DIY Cleaners for Stubborn Stains

For dried urine stains on a mattress, both enzymatic cleaners and homemade mixtures can help remove odors and discoloration. Enzymatic products target the chemical makeup of urine, while DIY options use common household items to lift and deodorize stains.

Enzyme Cleaners for Breaking Down Urine Odors

Enzymatic cleaners break down the proteins and acids in urine. This helps eliminate both stains and lingering smells. These products are available at most cleaning supply stores and usually come as sprays.

Steps for use:

1. Vacuum the area first to remove any loose debris.
2. Apply the enzymatic cleaner to the affected spot, making sure the area is fully covered.
3. Let the solution sit for at least 15–30 minutes, or as directed on the label.
4. Blot the spot with a clean towel to soak up excess liquid.
5. Allow the mattress to air dry completely.

Enzymatic products are reliable for cleaning urine stains because they target odor-causing molecules. For more detailed instructions, see advice on removing urine stains with enzymes.

Homemade Solutions with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Household staples like white vinegar and baking soda can be used as effective DIY cleaners. Vinegar works to disinfect and break down urine, while baking soda absorbs odors.

Steps for a homemade cleaner:

1. Mix a solution: Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Optional: Add a few drops of essential oil to mask the vinegar smell.
2. Spray the mixture generously onto the urine stain.
3. Allow it to soak for 10–15 minutes to loosen dried residue.
4. Blot up the liquid with a dry towel, pressing firmly.
5. Sprinkle baking soda over the area, covering it completely.
6. Let the baking soda sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum it up.
7. For extra cleaning, a few drops of dish soap or a small amount of hydrogen peroxide can be added to the vinegar mixture.

This method is easy and uses ingredients many people already have at home. See more about cleaning mattress urine stains with a vinegar and baking soda mix.

Tackling Special Cases: Pet and Stubborn Stains

Pet accidents and tricky stains like blood can be difficult to clean, especially when they’ve been left to dry on a mattress. Cleaning methods need to target deep odors and set-in colors for the best results.

Removing Pet Urine and Pet Stains

Pet urine can soak deep into the mattress, causing stains and strong odors. To remove these stains, use a mix of white vinegar and water (two parts water, one part vinegar). Spray it on the stained area and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Blot with a clean towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.

For older or tough pet stains, sprinkle baking soda over the wet spot after using vinegar. Let the baking soda sit for several hours or overnight to absorb odors and moisture. Then, vacuum up the baking soda. Enzyme cleaners made for pet stains help break down proteins in pet urine and remove smells. For more details, visit this guide on pet urine removal.

Dealing with Blood and Other Stains

Blood stains are stubborn because they bond quickly with fabric when dry. Always use cold water, as hot water can set the stain. Dampen a clean cloth with cold water and gently blot the area; do not rub.

If water alone doesn’t work, make a paste of baking soda and cold water and apply it to the stain. Let the paste sit for about 30 minutes, then wipe away with a damp cloth. For set-in blood stains, try using a small amount of hydrogen peroxide, but test it on a hidden spot first. Consistent blotting and patience help with stubborn marks.

Preventing Future Mattress Stains

Mattresses are prone to stains from accidents, spills, and pets. Using protective products and pet deterrent strategies helps keep mattresses cleaner.

Using a Waterproof Mattress Protector

A waterproof mattress protector is a simple way to keep a mattress clean and stain-free. It creates a barrier between the mattress and any liquid, including urine, sweat, or spills. Most protectors fit over the mattress like a fitted sheet, making them easy to remove and wash.

Look for protectors with a breathable surface for comfort and a waterproof layer underneath. Materials like terry cotton with a polyurethane backing provide softness and liquid resistance. Make sure the protector is machine washable for easy care.

Choosing a quality waterproof mattress protector can extend the mattress’s lifespan. It also makes cleaning up accidents much easier. When shopping, read reviews to find options that are durable and do not make noise under the sheets. For more details, visit this guide on removing stains and odors.

Implementing Pet Deterrent Strategies

If pets are a concern, using pet deterrents reduces the risk of future mattress stains. Make the bedroom off-limits when unsupervised by using baby gates or closed doors.

Other pet deterrent strategies include:

• Providing an appealing pet bed to keep pets off the mattress.
• Using pet training sprays that safely discourage jumping onto furniture.
• Cleaning areas with an enzymatic cleaner to remove lingering smells that attract pets.

Vacuum the mattress and nearby areas regularly to remove pet hair and dander. Train pets with positive reinforcement to use their own beds. These steps help keep the mattress clean longer. For more suggestions, check out this article on getting dried urine out of a mattress.

Safety Tips and Protecting Your Mattress’s Longevity

Proper cleaning stops new odors and stains from forming. Protecting your mattress means preventing mold, mildew, and deep damage that can shorten its life.

Avoiding Mold and Mildew After Cleaning

Mattresses can stay damp after spot cleaning, making them a target for mold and mildew. Use fans and open windows to help the mattress dry quickly. Sunlight also helps kill germs and speed up drying. Never put bedding back on until the mattress feels dry on the surface and underneath.

Place the mattress in a well-ventilated space and avoid covering it with plastic, as this traps moisture. If possible, flip or prop up the mattress during the drying process. Regularly check for musty smells or small dark spots, which can be early signs of mold and mildew.

Consider using a mattress protector after cleaning. These covers block spills and keep moisture from reaching the inside layers.

When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes home cleaning is not enough, especially if the urine stain is old or has soaked deep inside. If there are strong odors, visible mold, or the stain covers a large area, a professional cleaner may be necessary. Professionals have tools that can remove bacteria and deep moisture better than at-home methods.

For people with allergies or asthma, mold and mildew in mattresses can cause health issues. In those cases, it is safest to get help from someone trained to clean and sanitize mattresses.

If repeated cleaning does not help or if the mattress still smells bad, replacing the mattress may be the best way to protect health and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

To remove dried urine from a mattress, act quickly with the right materials and use proven cleaning solutions. Memory foam, cat urine, and tough odors often need special cleaning steps.

What are the most effective methods for removing dried urine stains from a mattress?

A combination of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap works well for dried stains. Mix these ingredients in a spray bottle and lightly spray the stained area. Let it sit until dry, then vacuum or blot away the residue.

For more details, see this guide on how to remove urine stains from a mattress.

What solutions can I use to eliminate the smell of urine from a mattress?

White vinegar mixed with water helps break down the smell. Spray the spot, let it sit for several minutes, and let the mattress air dry. Baking soda sprinkled over the area after cleaning can also help remove lingering odors.

Learn more at how to get urine smell and stains out of a mattress.

How can I clean a mattress that has been soiled with urine without using baking soda?

A mix of dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and water can be sprayed onto the stain. Gently blot the area to avoid soaking the mattress. Vinegar and water is another option if baking soda is not available.

Find details at how to remove urine from a mattress.

Are there any expert-recommended techniques for cleaning urine from a mattress?

Experts suggest not soaking the mattress, as it makes drying harder and can cause mold. Use a vacuum or carpet cleaner to remove as much moisture as possible. Always air the mattress out after cleaning to prevent odors and bacteria from growing.

Tips from cleaning experts are available at how to get dried urine out of a mattress.

Is it possible to remove urine stains from memory foam mattresses, and if so, how?

It is possible to clean dried urine from memory foam. Use a gentle mix of hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and water to spot clean. Be careful not to soak the foam. Always let the foam dry completely before using it again.

How do you address cat urine in a mattress after it has dried?

Cat urine has a strong smell. Use an enzyme-based cleaner to remove it, as enzymes break down odor molecules. Apply the cleaner, let it sit, then blot and allow the mattress to air dry. Repeat if the smell remains.