Parenting can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with moments that test patience and creativity. One of those challenges often appears during the potty-training phase. When children stop wearing diapers, nighttime accidents can happen, leaving parents wondering how to get pee out of a mattress fast and effectively.

Don’t panic, bedwetting is common, temporary, and manageable. With a few household ingredients and proven cleaning methods, you can eliminate urine stains and odors while helping your child through this stage confidently.

This comprehensive guide, featuring expert-backed cleaning strategies, will show you how to remove pee from a mattress, prevent lingering smells, and protect your child’s sleep space long-term.

Why Bedwetting Happens: A Normal Part of Growing Up

Before diving into cleaning tips, it helps to understand why kids wet the bed. Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is common among children aged 2–7. The causes often include:

  • Bladder development: The bladder may not yet be strong enough to hold urine overnight.

  • Deep sleep: Some children sleep so soundly that they don’t feel the urge to urinate.

  • Genetics: If one or both parents experienced bedwetting, their children are more likely to as well.

  • Stress or routine changes: Emotional factors or environmental shifts can contribute to accidents.

Remember, bedwetting is rarely intentional. Offering reassurance instead of punishment helps your child gain confidence and speeds progress.

Best Products for Cleaning Pee on a Mattress

When accidents happen, having the right cleaning tools makes all the difference. You don’t need expensive or harsh chemicals—just simple, effective household supplies.

Here are the top products to keep handy for cleaning urine from mattresses:

  • White Cleaning Vinegar: An affordable, non-toxic cleaning staple that neutralizes odor-causing bacteria. Always use cleaning vinegar, not cooking vinegar.

  • Baking Soda: Excellent for absorbing moisture and neutralizing lingering smells.

  • Laundry Detergent: A small amount helps lift stains and freshen fabrics.

  • Cold Water: Essential to prevent setting urine stains.

  • Clean Towels or Cloths: For blotting excess liquid.

  • Wet/Dry Vacuum: Great for removing residual moisture and speeding up the drying process.

When used correctly, these products can restore your child’s mattress to a clean, fresh-smelling condition in no time.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Pee Out of a Mattress

Accidents are stressful, but with the right approach, cleanup is quick and efficient. Follow these proven steps:

1. Act Quickly

The sooner you address the spill, the easier it will be to remove stains and odor. Strip the bed immediately—remove sheets, blankets, and mattress pads.

2. Wash the Bedding

Launder everything in cold water with regular detergent. If the smell persists, wash again using one cup of vinegar. Air-dry in sunlight if possible to help kill bacteria and remove lingering odors.

3. Blot the Mattress

Use a clean, dry towel to absorb as much urine as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the liquid deeper into the mattress fibers.

4. Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Mix two parts cold water with one part vinegar and a few drops of laundry detergent. Spray the mixture generously on the affected area. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

5. Blot Again

Use a dry towel to soak up as much liquid as possible after treatment.

6. Apply Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the damp area to absorb moisture and neutralize odors. Let it sit for at least 8–10 hours, or overnight if possible.

7. Vacuum Thoroughly

Once the baking soda is dry, use a wet/dry vacuum to remove it completely. This step also helps extract any remaining residue from the mattress.

8. Air Dry

Allow the mattress to dry fully before reapplying bedding. You can speed up drying by using a fan, hair dryer (on a cool setting), or open windows for airflow.

9. Add a Waterproof Mattress Protector

Prevention is key. A waterproof mattress pad or protector creates a barrier against future accidents and simplifies cleanup.

How Long Does It Take Pee to Dry on a Mattress?

Urine can begin drying within two to four hours, but even after the surface feels dry, bacteria and odor can remain trapped inside the fabric. That’s why deep cleaning is essential.

If your child hides an accident out of embarrassment, the dried stain may require extra attention. Use the same vinegar and baking soda treatment, but allow longer sitting times before blotting.

Be patient and supportive—frustration or anger can worsen your child’s anxiety about bedwetting. Focus on encouragement and consistent nighttime routines.

Bedwetting Prevention Tips for Parents

To reduce nighttime accidents, help your child build healthy bladder habits:

  • Encourage regular bathroom breaks during the day.

  • Make sure your child goes to the toilet before bedtime.

  • Limit liquids after dinner, especially sugary or caffeinated drinks.

  • Use a nightlight so your child feels comfortable getting up at night.

  • Offer positive reinforcement instead of punishment.

These small adjustments can significantly reduce the frequency of accidents while supporting emotional growth and confidence.

The Hidden Dangers of Leaving Pee on a Mattress

Ignoring a urine accident can create more than just an unpleasant smell. When left untreated, urine can lead to:

  • Bacterial growth: Urine provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.

  • Mold development: Trapped moisture encourages mold and mildew, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues.

  • Ammonia buildup: As bacteria break down urine, ammonia forms, causing strong odors and potential irritation to the lungs, nose, and throat.

Prompt cleaning protects both your child’s health and the longevity of your mattress.

Final Thoughts: Stay Calm, Clean Fast, and Stay Supportive

Every parent faces bedwetting challenges at some point. What matters most is how you respond. With the right cleaning techniques and a compassionate approach, you can handle these accidents quickly and without stress.

Remember, this phase is temporary. Focus on teaching healthy habits, maintaining cleanliness, and celebrating progress along the way. Before long, dry nights will become the norm.