Here's How to Clean Urine from a Mattress
Bedwetting accidents happen. Here’s how to clean urine from a mattress, plus extra tips on how to avoid accidents!
Cleaning urine out of a mattress might seem like an impossible and quite frankly pretty draining task. But we’re here to tell you that there are some simple steps to follow that can help return a mattress to its former glory.
Don't worry, cleaning up a bedwetting accident is easy with cleaning products you probably already have at home! Having a plan can make things less stressful, so you'll be ready for anything, day or night.
How to clean urine from a mattress
Night time accidents affect both kids and adults. There are some steps you can try to get your mattress back to its original form!
Grab these items to have on the ready:
- Hydrogen peroxide (can be found at most pharmacies and supermarkets)
- Dish detergent
- Baking soda
- Spray bottle
- Old cleaning cloths or paper towel
- A vacuum
- Essential oil (optional)
It’s important to note that whether the urine is dry or wet will determine slightly different steps.
If the urine is wet...
Step 1: Quick Action
First, strip the bed! Take off everything – sheets, blankets, and pillowcases. Toss them straight into the washing machine.
Step 2: Blot, Don't Scrub
Gently blot up as much of the wetness as you can with a cloth or paper towels. Don’t scrub, as this can push the urine deeper into the mattress.
Step 3: Make A Cleaning Solution
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle. Add a few squirts of dish soap and shake well.
Step 4: Spray and Blot Again
Spray the wet areas with the cleaning solution and blot again to remove excess moisture.
Step 5: Baking Soda Power
Sprinkle baking soda over the affected areas. Let it sit for at least 8 hours, or as long as possible.
Step 6: Vacuum and Repeat
Vacuum up the baking soda. If there are still stains or odours, repeat steps 3-5.
If the urine is dry...
1. Make Your Cleaning Solution
Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dish soap in a spray bottle (up to about 240mL). Add a few tablespoons of baking soda and shake well.
2. Spray the Stain
Spray the stained areas generously with the cleaning solution.
3. Let it Dry
Let the solution sit for a few hours, or until you see a layer of baking soda.
4. Vacuum and Repeat
Vacuum up the baking soda. If the stain persists, repeat the process.
To help your mattress dry faster, open a window in summer or turn up the heat in winter.
For a fresh scent, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to a spray bottle of water. Spritz it over the mattress, especially the smelly spots, and let it air dry.
How to protect your mattress from accidents and leaks
If you’re dealing with bedwetting, finding the right protection for nighttime is key. Our Nundies for kids and teens are designed to keep your young ones comfortable and dry all night long.
They feature awesome 3-channel absorbency superpowers that rapidly draw in and dry liquid. Plus, they have built-in leak guards for extra protection.
You could also consider investing in waterproof mattress protectors and sheets just in case any leaks happen to get past your continence aids.
How often should you replace your mattress?
The Sleep Foundation recommends that a mattress should be replaced every 6-8 years, or earlier if there are noticeable signs of damage.
If you’re experiencing a number of leaks on your mattress that you’re struggling to remove completely, it may be time to consider a replacement.
Then you can uphold the new mattress’ quality by immediately opting for waterproof bed protectors to prevent any urine getting in contact with it!
Nundies Youth Pants!
About the Author: Gabriella Del Grande
Having begun her career as a journalist, Gabriella has been weaving words to create engaging and educational content for over a decade. Gabriella loves to write insightful pieces that empower readers to take control of their health and wellbeing so they can live their lives to the fullest. Along with crafting articles, Gabriella has an eye for design, producing and overseeing visual content from short-form Instagram reels and TikToks to long-form brand campaigns and video series.