Remove Pet Urine From a Mattress Without Stress or Damage

Few household problems feel as frustrating as discovering your dog or cat has had an accident on your bed. Mattresses are bulky, expensive, and impossible to toss into the washing machine. Fortunately, learning how to remove pet urine from a mattress is easier—and cheaper—than most pet owners expect.

Whether the urine is fresh or already dried, the right approach can remove stains, neutralize odors, and prevent repeat accidents. Acting quickly and using proper cleaning techniques is critical to success.

Why You Must Remove Pet Urine From a Mattress Immediately

Pet urine doesn’t just leave a surface stain. It seeps deep into mattress layers, especially memory foam, where it can:

• Create strong ammonia odors

• Encourage pets to re-mark the same area

• Support bacteria and mold growth

• Permanently damage foam structure

According to the ASPCA, lingering urine odor can reinforce repeat accidents if not fully eliminated:
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/house-soiling-dogs

That’s why fully removing urine—not masking it—is essential.

Best Cleaner to Remove Pet Urine From a Mattress

Enzyme Cleaners (Most Effective)

Enzyme-based cleaners break down urine proteins at a molecular level. This makes them the gold standard for pet urine mattress cleaning, especially for strong or repeated accidents.

Vinegar-Based Solution (Effective DIY Option)

If enzyme cleaners aren’t available, diluted white vinegar combined with baking soda can still work effectively for both fresh and dried urine stains.

How to Remove Fresh Pet Urine From a Mattress (6 Steps)

Step 1: Gather Supplies

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• Cold water

• Mild liquid laundry detergent

• Spray bottle

• Vacuum

Step 2: Remove Bedding Immediately

Strip sheets, blankets, and protectors and wash them right away. Use hot water if fabric care allows.

Step 3: Absorb Moisture With Baking Soda

Avoid pressing towels into the mattress, which pushes urine deeper. Instead, generously sprinkle baking soda to absorb moisture naturally.

Step 4: Vacuum the Area

Once the baking soda darkens, vacuum thoroughly. Repeat if needed until no moisture remains.

Step 5: Apply Cleaning Solution

Mix:

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 2 cups cold water

• 2–3 teaspoons mild detergent

Lightly spray the area until damp. Let sit for 15 minutes, then blot gently.

Step 6: Final Deodorizing Treatment

Apply another layer of baking soda and let it sit 8–10 hours before vacuuming. This step is essential to fully remove pet urine from a mattress odor.

How to Remove Dried Pet Urine From a Mattress (5 Steps)

Step 1: Rehydrate the Stain

Spray the vinegar solution generously to fully dampen the dried urine area.

Step 2: Cover With Plastic Wrap

Cover the spot with plastic wrap to slow evaporation and allow deeper breakdown.

Step 3: Wait 24–48 Hours

Sleep elsewhere if possible while the solution works.

Step 4: Air Dry Completely

Remove the plastic and allow at least 8 hours of airflow.

Step 5: Repeat if Necessary

Old stains may need multiple treatments. Patience is key when trying to remove pet urine from a mattress completely.

How to Prevent Pets From Urinating on the Mattress Again

Use a Waterproof Mattress Protector

A quality mattress protector prevents urine from ever reaching the mattress and is easy to wash.

Remove All Scent Cues

Even faint odors can attract pets back. Enzyme sprays eliminate lingering scent markers.

Limit Bedroom Access

During training, illness, or anxiety episodes, restrict unsupervised bedroom access.

Monitor Pet Health

Sudden accidents may indicate urinary tract infections, anxiety, or age-related incontinence. Consult a veterinarian if accidents appear unexpectedly.

Honeycare Dog Diapers: Smart Prevention for Repeat Accidents

Even after you successfully remove pet urine from a mattress, prevention is the smartest long-term strategy. Honeycare dog diapers are designed to comfortably contain urine before it reaches your bedding.

They’re ideal for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs experiencing temporary incontinence or anxiety. When combined with a waterproof mattress protector, dog diapers dramatically reduce cleanup stress and protect your sleeping space.

Related internal resources:

• How to Stop Dogs From Peeing on the Bed

• Best Mattress Protectors for Pet Owners

FAQ: Remove Pet Urine From a Mattress

How do I remove pet urine from a mattress quickly?

To remove pet urine from a mattress quickly, act as soon as possible. Sprinkle baking soda over the wet area to absorb moisture, vacuum it up, then spray a vinegar-and-water solution with a small amount of mild detergent. After blotting, finish with an overnight baking soda treatment to neutralize odor.

What is the best cleaner to remove pet urine from a mattress?

Enzyme-based cleaners are the most effective option to remove pet urine from a mattress. They break down the proteins in urine that cause lingering smells. If an enzyme cleaner isn’t available, a diluted white vinegar solution combined with baking soda can still work well.

Can dried pet urine be removed from a mattress?

Yes. You can still remove pet urine from a mattress even if it’s dried. The process takes longer and may require repeating. Rehydrate the stain with a vinegar solution, cover it with plastic wrap for 24–48 hours, then allow the mattress to air-dry fully before deodorizing with baking soda.

Will pet urine smell ever go away from a mattress?

Pet urine odor can be completely eliminated if the urine proteins are fully broken down and the mattress is thoroughly dried. Using enzyme cleaners and baking soda together is the most reliable way to permanently remove pet urine from a mattress odor rather than masking it.

Is vinegar safe to use on a mattress?

Yes. When properly diluted, white vinegar is safe for most mattresses and effective for odor removal. Avoid soaking the mattress, and always allow it to dry completely to prevent mildew.

Can pet urine permanently damage a mattress?

Yes. If urine penetrates deep into foam layers and isn’t cleaned promptly, it can cause permanent odor, weaken materials, and create conditions for mold or bacteria growth. Quick action makes it much easier to remove pet urine from a mattress without lasting damage.

How can I stop my pet from peeing on the mattress again?

To prevent repeat accidents after you remove pet urine from a mattress:

• Use a waterproof mattress protector

• Eliminate lingering odors with enzyme sprays

• Limit bedroom access during training or illness

• Consult a veterinarian if accidents start suddenly

• Consider dog diapers for puppies, senior dogs, or anxious pets