Urine stains on a mattress can come from accidents by young children, pets or the sick and elderly. For health reasons it is important to know how to get urine out of a mattress. In addition to leaving a foul odor, urine carries bacteria that lead to fungus and mold if left untreated. There are chemical commercial products available that help remove urine. Home treatments will often effectively do the job with just a little knowledge about cleaning a mattress that has been soiled with urine.
Steam Clean Your Mattress
Most homeowners already own a steam carpet cleaner. When a urine accident happens they may wonder how to clean a mattress using the machine. A steam cleaner can be used along with a cleaning agent to take out not only the stain, but also the bacteria. Lay the mattress on the floor to use the cleaner using the recommended heat settings. The cleaner will suck up most of the liquid cleanser and urine. The mattress should then be left to air dry. Some people put the mattress in the room with a fan in order to speed up the drying time. The stain and odor from the urine should be gone when the mattress is completely dry.
Rubbing Alcohol to Clean A Mattress
Another suggestion for people who would like to know how to get urine out of a mattress is to try rubbing alcohol. Alcohol is a natural disinfectant and antiseptic. Although it probably will not remove the stain, it will kill the bacteria that are present. Applying the alcohol with a spray bottle allows it to dry even more quickly. Be sure to use alcohol with no coloring to avoid further staining.
Liquid Detergent or Shampoo and Mattresses
Cleaning products found right in the home can help to get urine out of a mattress. If the stain is new it can usually be removed with liquid detergent or even shampoo diluted with a small amount of water. These products clean the mattress and also leave a fresh scent. One good tip for how to clean a mattress is to take the mattress to the garage or basement and stand it against the wall. Applying the cleanser is less back breaking and the liquid has less chance of soaking in.
Distilled Vinegar to Clean a Mattress
Clear vinegar has been an answer to prayer for how to get urine out of a mattress for decades. Vinegar also has antiseptic properties that will kill bacteria and neutralize odor. Like alcohol, it does not remove stains. Those have successfully used vinegar as the solution to how to clean a mattress suggest applying a small amount, making sure the edges of the stain are covered.
Here are some tips on how to clean a mattress utilizing any of the above methods. If the urine is still wet, soak up as much of the liquid as possible with a dry towel before cleaning. After cleaning make sure the mattress is completely dry before using. Taking it outdoors in the sun is one of the best ways to do this. Sprinkling baking soda or odor remover will eliminate any odor left after applying these suggestions.