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How to Get Cat Pee Smell & Stains Out of a Mattress in 5 Easy Steps

Written by: Christian Adams

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

cleaning a mattress bed

How to Get Cat Pee Smell & Stains Out of a Mattress in 5 Easy Steps

Cats are renowned for their good litter box habits. However, sick or senior cats can have the occasional accident. Cat urine has an extremely potent odor that can be difficult to eliminate, and you must deal with the problem immediately to prevent the cat from peeing on the spot again. If the cat can still smell the scent of urine on the mattress, they will deduce that peeing on the spot is alright with you.

If you have tried numerous solutions to no avail, consider using the tips in this article.

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Before You Start

If the cat just wet the bed and the mattress is still wet, use paper towels to blot the urine. Try to blot as much urine as you can. Next, rinse the spot with plain water before using one of the cleaning products below.

Our research revealed that the following household products are the most effective at eliminating urine odor. However, they vary in effectiveness and safety. These include:

  • Baking soda
  • Enzyme-based detergents
  • Vinegar
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Borax

Start with baking soda since it is the least hazardous, and work your way up depending on whether the product works. For example, if the baking soda works, you will not have to use the enzyme-based detergent.

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The 5 Steps For Getting Cat Pee Smell Out of a Mattress

1. Using Baking Soda

baking soda in a glass bowl
Image By: NatureFriend, Pixabay

While baking soda might not be as powerful or effective as borax, we recommend using it first since it is non-toxic and the most cost-effective option on this list. Additionally, baking soda is renowned for its odor-eating properties, which is why it is commonly used to remove smells from closets and refrigerators. Implement these steps:

  • Make a baking soda paste.
  • Dampen the smelly spot with water.
  • Use a cloth or brush to rub the baking soda paste all over the spot.
  • Allow the spot to air-dry.

Once the spot is completely dry, use a brush or vacuum to remove the baking soda residue. Hopefully, it should have worked. If not, proceed to step two.


2. An Enzyme-Based Detergent

Enzyme-based detergents are exceptional at odor removal, thanks to their enzymes, which “eat” organic material such as cat urine. Proceed as follows:

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Once the mattress has dried completely, smell the area carefully for lingering odors. If there is still an odor, repeat the process. If the odor lingers after a second enzyme-based detergent treatment, proceed to the next step.


3. Using Vinegar

vinegar
Image By: NatureFriend, Pixabay

While vinegar is neither toxic nor dangerous, some people do not like its smell. If you can tolerate it, consider using it since it is remarkably effective at eliminating odors. The good news is that vinegar’s scent dissipates over time. Follow these steps:

  • Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle.
  • Spray a small amount on the stained area.
  • Allow it to air dry.

There is a good chance that this will work. If not, move on to step four.


4. Hydrogen Peroxide

hydrogen peroxide
Image Credit: sulit.photos, Shutterstock

Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent cleaner and deodorizer. However, it is also toxic and dangerous. Therefore, you have to take precautionary measures when using it. For starters, you should wear a mask and gloves since hydrogen peroxide fumes are also toxic.

You can use it either in pure form or in diluted form. Pour the hydrogen peroxide on the stained area, then allow the mattress to air dry.


5. Using Borax

Borax is a powerful chemical that is a staple ingredient in cleaning products and pesticides, thanks to its antibacterial properties. However, it is also incredibly toxic, regardless of whether it is ingested or inhaled. We suggest only using borax as a last resort due to how dangerous it is. Again, remember to wear a mask and gloves.

To remove urine smell, do the following:
  • Dampen the trouble spot with water.
  • Sprinkle borax over the spot.
  • Use a cloth or brush to rub in the borax until it forms a thin paste.
  • Allow the mattress to air-dry.

Once the mattress is fully dry, brush off the powder residue.

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Summary

There is a good chance that baking soda will work. If it does not, experiment with the other solutions until you find one that works for you. You will also need to address your cat’s urinating issue. Start with taking them to the vet for a thorough evaluation to rule out potential health issues. Additionally, ensure their litter box is always clean since cats do not like dirty or smelly litter boxes.


Featured Image Credit: beton studio, Shutterstock

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