How to Remove Urine Stains & Odor from a Mattress Step-by-Step Guide for Pet & Kid Accidents

When your home has kids or pets, it’s not uncommon to face the frustrating challenge of urine stains on a mattress. Many of us have been there, myself included! I have a few stubborn stains that I put off dealing with because I didn’t know the best way to clean them. Since then, I’ve started using a waterproof mattress protector, which has prevented new stains. But I was still determined to tackle the old ones, so I did some research and found some great methods I’m excited to share with you.

If you have young kids or furry friends, a mattress stain is almost inevitable. A waterproof mattress cover is a lifesaver in these situations. But if you don’t have one, don’t panic! There are effective ways to handle the mess. Acting quickly is key, especially with pet urine, which is more concentrated and has a stronger odor.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

To get started, you’ll need to gather a few essential cleaning products. You may already have some of these items at home.

• Gloves
• Microfiber cloths or paper towels
• A soft-bristled scrub brush
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Borax
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Oxygen-based stain remover or laundry pre-treatment spray
• A spray bottle
• A steam cleaner (if you have one)

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Mattress Stains

Follow these steps to effectively tackle those stubborn stains. We’ll start with the simplest method and then cover more intensive options if needed.

Step 1: Prep the Mattress

First, remove all bedding, including sheets, pillows, and mattress protectors. Wash everything that can be laundered in the washing machine. This is a great time to get your bedding fresh and clean!

Step 2: Blot and Absorb

Using a paper towel or a clean microfiber cloth, blot the stain to absorb as much of the urine as possible. Press down firmly to draw the liquid out of the mattress. Use fresh towels as needed until no more moisture comes up.

Step 3: The Baking Soda Method

This is often the first line of defense and works wonders on fresh stains.

1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly onto the stained area, making sure to cover it completely.
2. Let it sit and work its magic. The baking soda will absorb the remaining moisture and help neutralize the odor. For best results, let it sit for several hours, or even overnight.
3. Once the baking soda is completely dry, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to thoroughly clean up the powder.

When a Simple Clean Isn’t Enough

If the stain or odor persists after the baking soda treatment, the urine has likely soaked deeper into the mattress. In this case, you’ll need to use more powerful cleaners. Here are a few options, starting with the mildest and moving to the strongest.

Option 1: The Vinegar Solution

White distilled vinegar is a mild acid that helps neutralize the alkaline components of urine.

1. Fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar.
2. Spray the stained area generously. Don’t worry about the strong vinegar smell—it will dissipate as the mattress dries.
3. Allow the mattress to air dry completely. You can use a fan or a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.

Option 2: The Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

Hydrogen peroxide is a gentle disinfectant and a powerful oxygen-based bleaching agent. It’s highly effective at breaking down urine and eliminating odors.

1. Fill a spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide. A 3-10% concentration is ideal and won’t harm most fabrics.
2. Spray the stain thoroughly.
3. Let the area air dry. Since hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water when exposed to light, it’s best to use it immediately after pouring it into the bottle. If you’re using a higher concentration (over 3%), you can dilute it with water in a 1:1 ratio to prevent any potential discoloration.

Option 3: The Borax Paste

Borax is an alkaline mineral that helps neutralize acidic stains and is a potent deodorizer. Always wear gloves and safety glasses when using borax, as it can be irritating to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.

1. In a bowl, mix one cup of borax with one tablespoon of water to form a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste to the stained area.
3. Gently scrub the paste into the mattress with a soft brush.
4. Allow the paste to dry completely.
5. Once dry, vacuum up the residue.

Important Tips to Remember

• Avoid over-saturating the mattress: Too much liquid can lead to mold and mildew. Apply cleaning solutions in light layers.
• Allow for complete drying: This is the most critical step. Ensure the mattress is completely dry before putting the bedding back on. This can take several hours to a full day.
• Steam Cleaning: If none of the above methods work, a steam cleaner can be a last resort. This method is very effective, but be prepared for a long drying time—at least 12 hours. The steam helps to penetrate deep into the mattress fibers, sanitizing the area and lifting stubborn stains.

By following these simple yet effective methods, you can get rid of those unsightly stains and lingering odors, leaving your mattress fresh and clean. Give these a try, and you might be surprised at how well they work!