Pet accidents happen — sometimes on your bed — but that doesn't mean you have to live with the unpleasant stains and odors.
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Time A full day
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$20-50
Introduction
If you have an excitable puppy or a senior cat, chances are you will experience a few accidents. And yes, sometimes those accidents will happen on the bed. It's no secret that cleaning a mattress is a tricky task. But with the right supplies at your disposal, it is possible to get pet urine stains — and the smell that comes with them — out of your mattress.
Tools Required
- Dry cotton towels
- Spray Bottle
- Vacuum
Materials Required
- Baking soda
- Enzymatic cleaner
- Lavender essential oil (optional)
- White vinegar
Project step-by-step (7)
Step 1
Remove and Wash Bedding
- Take sheets, blankets and pillows off the bed.
- Treat any stains with a stain remover, and wash affected linens in hot water.
Step 2
Blot Up Liquid
- If the pet stain is fresh, use a clean cotton towel to soak up as much of the urine as possible.
- Press down firmly on the stained area, but do not rub.
- Paper towels will also work for this step but you’ll likely use quite a few of them.
- Skip this step if the stain is already dry.
Step 3
Make Vinegar Solution
- Mix together a homemade cleaning solution of 50 percent white vinegar and 50 percent cold water.
- Use 1/2 cup of each ingredient to start.
- Add a few drops of lavender essential oil if you can’t stand the vinegar smell.
- Pour the solution into your spray bottle.
Step 4
Apply the Vinegar Mixture
- Spray a liberal amount of the vinegar solution over the affected area of your mattress.
- Let the solution sit for five minutes, then blot it up with a fresh towel.
- Repeat this step at least one more time.
Step 5
Treat Cat Urine With Enzymatic Cleaner
- Cat urine contains ammonia and an amino acid called felinine, both of which cause strong household odors.
- Use an enzymatic cleaner to break down urine molecules and destroy smells.
- Follow the product’s instructions to treat your mattress.
Step 6
Use Baking Soda to Remove Odors
- After the stain is removed, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the mattress.
- Let the powder sit for eight to 10 hours
- This will also help absorb lingering moisture.
- Vacuum up the baking soda.
- Repeat if needed.
Step 7
Dry the Mattress
- Place the mattress outside in the sun for several hours to dry it.
- This will prevent mold and mildew growth. The sun’s UV rays can also kill bacteria.
- Alternatively, use a fan to dry the mattress.
