Skip to content
clean urine from a mattress

Guide: How to Clean Urine from a Mattress with Apple Cider Vinegar

7 Powerful Steps to Clean Urine from a Mattress with Apple Cider Vinegar

Knowing how to clean urine from a mattress is essential for maintaining a fresh and odor-free sleeping environment. Cleaning urine stains may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach and materials, you can effectively clean urine from a mattress and eliminate lingering odors using apple cider vinegar. This guide outlines 7 powerful steps to ensure your mattress stays fresh, clean, and comfortable.


Materials Needed

To effectively clean urine from a mattress, gather the following materials:

MaterialDescription
Apple Cider VinegarBreaks down urine stains and neutralizes odors naturally.
WaterDilutes the vinegar for safe application.
Baking SodaAbsorbs moisture and eliminates odors.
DetergentEnhances the cleaning power of the vinegar solution.
Spray BottleEnsures even application of the cleaning solution.
Clean ClothsBlotting and removing excess liquid.
Vacuum CleanerRemoves dried baking soda after cleaning.
Enzyme Cleaner(Optional) Breaks down persistent urine proteins for deep cleaning.

Having these materials on hand ensures you’re prepared to tackle any urine stain effectively.


Step 1: Removing Fresh Urine Stains

Acting quickly is key to preventing fresh urine stains from setting into your mattress. Follow these steps to clean urine from a mattress effectively:

  1. Remove Bedding: Strip the bed and immediately launder any soiled sheets or covers.
  2. Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to soak up as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing to prevent spreading.
  3. Create a Cleaning Solution: Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a small amount of detergent for extra cleaning power.
  4. Spray the Stain: Saturate the stained area with the vinegar solution and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  5. Blot Again: Use a clean cloth to absorb the liquid, pressing firmly to extract moisture.
  6. Apply Baking Soda: Generously sprinkle baking soda over the treated area and let it sit overnight to absorb odors.
  7. Vacuum: In the morning, vacuum the dried baking soda thoroughly. Ensure the mattress is dry before replacing the bedding.

Testimonial: “I followed these steps, and my mattress looks and smells brand new. Apple cider vinegar and baking soda worked wonders to clean urine from a mattress!” —Happy Customer


Step 2: Tackling Dried Urine Stains

For dried urine stains, you need a more intensive approach to clean urine from a mattress:

  1. Rehydrate the Stain: Spray the dried stain with the vinegar and water solution until it’s fully saturated.
  2. Blot the Area: Use a clean cloth to lift as much of the rehydrated stain as possible.
  3. Use an Enzyme Cleaner: If the stain persists, apply an enzyme cleaner designed for urine. These cleaners break down proteins responsible for odors and discoloration.
  4. Repeat if Necessary: Alternate between blotting and applying the solution until the stain is gone.
  5. Dry and Deodorize: Finish by sprinkling baking soda over the area and vacuuming it up after several hours.

Step 3: Why Apple Cider Vinegar Works

Apple cider vinegar is an excellent alternative to white vinegar for cleaning urine stains. Its natural acidity breaks down stains and neutralizes odors effectively. To use apple cider vinegar to clean urine from a mattress:

  1. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
  2. Spray the solution onto the stain and allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes.
  3. Blot the area with a clean cloth and let it air dry completely.

Pro Tip: Always ensure the mattress is fully dry to prevent mold or mildew growth.


Step 4: Masking Odors with Essential Oils

Essential oils, like lavender, can add a fresh scent to your mattress while masking any residual odors:

  • Add a few drops of lavender oil to a spray bottle filled with water.
  • Lightly mist the mattress after cleaning and drying.
  • Use a diffuser to create a calming atmosphere in your bedroom.

While essential oils don’t remove the source of the odor, they provide a pleasant scent to enhance your cleaning efforts when you clean urine from a mattress.


Step 5: Prevention Tips for Future Accidents

Investing in preventive measures can save you the hassle of dealing with urine stains in the future:

  • Waterproof Mattress Protectors: These create a barrier against liquids, making cleanup much easier.
  • Regular Cleaning: Vacuum your mattress regularly to maintain hygiene.
  • Training for Pets or Children: Encourage good habits to reduce accidents.

Learn More: Mattress Hygiene and Cleaning
Explore: Choosing the Right Bedding for Mattress Hygiene


Step 6: Dealing with Lingering Odors

If odors persist after cleaning, try these methods to clean urine from a mattress effectively:

Odor Removal MethodEffectivenessNatural Ingredients
Baking SodaHighYes
Enzyme CleanerHighYes
Essential OilsModerateYes
Airing Out the MattressModerateN/A

Place your mattress in a well-ventilated area or near an open window to allow fresh air to circulate and dissipate any remaining smells.


Step 7: Conclusion

Cleaning urine stains from your mattress is achievable with the right approach. By acting quickly and using natural materials like apple cider vinegar and baking soda, you can effectively clean urine from a mattress and eliminate stains and odors. Don’t forget to invest in preventive measures, like waterproof mattress protectors, to avoid future accidents.

For more tips on mattress care and hygiene, explore these resources:

By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a fresh and clean sleeping environment every night.


FAQ

1. Can apple cider vinegar be used to clean urine stains? Yes, apple cider vinegar effectively removes urine stains and neutralizes odors. It’s one of the best solutions to clean urine from a mattress.

2. What should I do for dried urine stains? Rehydrate the stain with a vinegar solution, blot, and use an enzyme cleaner if necessary to clean urine from a mattress effectively.

3. Can essential oils remove urine odor? Essential oils mask the odor but don’t eliminate the source. Use them after cleaning for a fresh scent.

4. How can I prevent future urine stains? Use a waterproof mattress protector to shield your mattress from liquid spills and keep it easier to clean urine from a mattress.

5. What if I don’t have vinegar? Consider using an enzyme cleaner or a mild detergent solution instead to clean urine from a mattress.


External References

  1. Casper’s Mattress Cleaning Tips
  2. Amerisleep’s Guide to Urine Stain Removal
  3. Sleep Checklist: Removing Mattress Pee Stains