The #1 Powerful Guide to Removing Urine from Mattresses in 2024

Say Goodbye to Stains: How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress

Accidents happen, whether from a child’s midnight mishap, your pet’s unexpected oopsie, or maybe even your own. Knowing how to get pee out of a mattress quickly and effectively is essential to prevent odors and stains from setting in.

Quick Steps:

1. Blot the area immediately.
2. Spray with a 50:50 vinegar and water solution.
3. Sprinkle baking soda and let sit for 8-10 hours.
4. Vacuum up the baking soda.
5. Repeat if necessary.

Everyone aims to never deal with accidents by using a mattress protector. Still, what if it fails or you haven’t ordered one yet? Don’t stress! Armed with a few household tools, you can return your mattress to its fresh, clean state.

My name is Ben Trapskin, the founder of Yawnder. After spending years tackling sleep issues and reviewing countless mattress products, I’ve learned effective strategies to maintain mattress hygiene. Keeping your sleep environment clean is crucial for good rest, especially if you’re dealing with accidents.

How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress

Accidents happen, but that doesn’t mean your mattress is ruined. Whether it’s a fresh stain or a dried one, there are effective methods to clean it up. Let’s explore how to tackle fresh urine stains and dried urine stains on your mattress.

Cleaning Fresh Urine Stains

If you catch the accident early, you’re in luck. Fresh stains are easier to clean, and you have a good chance of eliminating both the stain and the smell.

What you’ll need:
– White vinegar
– Baking soda
– Water
– Spray bottle
– Towels
– Vacuum

Steps:

1. Remove Bedding: Strip off all sheets, mattress protectors, and other bedding. Toss them into the washing machine.

2. Blot the Stain: Use a towel to blot the urine. Do not scrub, as this can push the urine deeper into the mattress.

1. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

2. Spray the Area: Generously spray the vinegar solution over the stained area. Vinegar helps neutralize the ammonia in urine.

3. Blot Again: Blot the area with a clean towel to absorb excess moisture.

4. Apply Baking Soda: Cover the wet area with a thick layer of baking soda. Let it sit for 8-10 hours. Baking soda absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors.

5. Vacuum: After letting the baking soda sit, vacuum it up. Inspect the area. If the stain or odor persists, repeat the process.

Cleaning Dried Urine Stains

Dried urine stains are more stubborn but can still be tackled with the right approach.

What you’ll need:
– Hydrogen peroxide
– Baking soda
– Dish soap
– Spray bottle
– Vacuum

Steps:

1. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix 8 ounces of hydrogen peroxide, 3 tablespoons of baking soda, and a few drops of dish soap in a bowl. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.

2. Apply Baking Soda: Sprinkle a layer of baking soda over the dried stain. Use an old toothbrush or cloth to work it into the fabric.

1. Spray the Solution: Spray the hydrogen peroxide mixture over the baking soda-covered stain. Let it sit until it dries. This mixture breaks down the uric acid and removes the odor.

2. Vacuum: Once the area is dry, vacuum up any remaining residue. Repeat the process if necessary.

Cleaning urine from a mattress might seem daunting, but with these steps, you can restore your mattress to its former glory. Next, we’ll explore advanced cleaning methods for stubborn stains.

Advanced Cleaning Methods for Stubborn Stains

Using Enzymatic Cleaners

When urine stains are particularly stubborn, especially from pets, enzymatic cleaners are your best bet. These cleaners contain special enzymes called protease enzymes that break down protein-based stains, like urine, into smaller particles. These particles are then digested by natural bacteria, turning them into carbon dioxide and water, which evaporate.

Steps to Use Enzymatic Cleaners:

1. Spot Test: Before applying the cleaner to the stained area, always do a spot test on a hidden part of the mattress. This ensures the cleaner won’t discolor or damage your mattress.

2. Apply the Cleaner: Spray the enzymatic cleaner generously over the stain. Make sure to cover the entire area.

3. Let it Sit: Allow the cleaner to sit and work its magic. The time required can vary based on the product, so follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label.

4. Blot and Dry: After the cleaner has done its job, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove excess moisture. Let the mattress air dry completely.

Using an enzymatic cleaner is especially effective for pet urine, which can have a stronger smell due to its higher concentration of ammonia.

Using Borax for Old Stains

Borax is another powerful cleaner that can tackle old urine stains. It’s a natural mineral that not only cleans but also neutralizes odors.

Steps to Use Borax:

1. Dampen the Stain: Lightly dampen the old stain with water. Be careful not to flood the area; just enough to allow the borax to penetrate.

2. Apply Borax: Sprinkle a liberal amount of borax powder directly onto the damp stain. Alternatively, you can make a paste by mixing one cup of borax with one tablespoon of water.

3. Work It In: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently work the borax into the stain. This helps the borax penetrate deeper into the fabric.

4. Let It Dry: Allow the borax to dry completely. This may take several hours.

5. Vacuum: Once dry, thoroughly vacuum the mattress to remove any residual borax powder.

Safety Precautions: Borax can irritate the skin and eyes. If you come into contact with it, wash your skin with clean water and rinse your eyes thoroughly if needed.

These advanced cleaning methods are highly effective for stubborn urine stains and can help you maintain a clean and fresh mattress. For pet owners, combining these methods with a homemade pet deterrent can prevent future accidents.

Preventing Future Accidents

Accidents happen, but they don’t have to ruin your mattress. Here are some tips to prevent future mishaps and keep your bed fresh and clean.

Waterproof Mattress Protectors

A waterproof mattress protector is your first line of defense against spills and accidents. These protectors create a barrier between your mattress and any liquids, including urine. They are especially useful if you have pets, children, or are prone to spills.

Amerisleep Mattress Protector is a great option. It’s not only waterproof but also helps minimize dust mites and allergens. This can be particularly beneficial for people with allergies.

Benefits of Waterproof Mattress Protectors:

• Keeps your mattress dry: Prevents urine and other liquids from seeping into the mattress.
• Protects against allergens: Dust mites and other allergens can’t penetrate the protector.
• Easy to clean: Most are machine washable, making cleanup a breeze.

Homemade Pet Deterrent

If you have pets, a homemade pet deterrent can help keep them from having accidents on your bed. A simple mixture of water, vinegar, and a few drops of citrus-scented essential oil can do the trick.

How to Make a Pet Deterrent:

1. Mix water and vinegar: Combine equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.
2. Add essential oil: Add a few drops of citrus-scented essential oil. Pets dislike the smell of citrus.
3. Spray the area: Lightly spray the mixture on areas where you don’t want your pet to go.

This natural solution is safe for your pets and helps keep them away from your bed.

Establish a Bathroom Routine

Creating a regular bathroom routine for your pets can significantly reduce accidents.

• Take your dog for a potty walk right before bed.
• Ensure your cat has litterbox access throughout the night.
• For puppies and older dogs, consider a middle-of-the-night pee break or use wee pads if they’re trained.

By providing regular bathroom breaks, you can help your pets avoid nighttime accidents.

Taking these preventive measures can save you from the hassle of cleaning up future accidents and help you maintain a comfortable and hygienic sleeping environment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cleaning Urine from Mattresses

How do you get urine stains out of bedding?

Removing urine stains from bedding is easier than from a mattress. Start by tossing the soiled items into the washer. Add one cup of distilled white vinegar but skip the laundry detergent for now.

Use cold water for the wash cycle. Hot water can set the urine stain, making it harder to remove. Once the cycle is complete, check if the stain is gone. If not, soak the bedding in a cold water and vinegar solution overnight. Then, rewash as usual.

Can urine on a mattress cause mold?

Yes, urine can cause mold on a mattress. Urine contains uric acid, which leaves behind salt after it dries. This salt attracts moisture, especially in humid conditions. The moisture can lead to mold and bacteria growth, creating an unhealthy sleeping environment.

Regular cleaning and using a waterproof mattress protector can help prevent this issue.

Are enzymatic cleaners safe?

Most enzymatic cleaners are safe. They use protease enzymes and natural bacteria to break down stains and odors. These cleaners are effective without harsh chemicals. However, always check the ingredients list to ensure there are no toxic chemicals added.

Enzymatic cleaners are especially useful for pet urine, as they break down the proteins in the urine, eliminating the odor and preventing repeat accidents.

Conclusion

Accidents happen, but they don’t have to spell disaster for your mattress. With the right techniques and preventive measures, you can keep your mattress clean and fresh. From tackling fresh stains with vinegar and baking soda to using enzymatic cleaners for stubborn pet urine, knowing how to get pee out of a mattress is a valuable skill.

At Yawnder, we believe in the importance of maintaining a healthy sleeping environment. Using a waterproof mattress protector is your first line of defense against spills, stains, and allergens. Not only does it make cleaning easier, but it also extends the life of your mattress.

Preventive measures are key. Regularly washing your bedding, vacuuming your mattress, and addressing any accidents promptly can make a big difference. For pet owners, ensuring your furry friends have regular bathroom breaks and using deterrents can help prevent accidents.

A clean mattress contributes to better sleep and overall health. So, take the time to protect and care for your mattress. If you need more tips or are looking for a new mattress, check out our Yawnder mattress collection.

Sleep well, and keep your mattress fresh!