How To Get Dog Pee Out Of A Mattress Without Ruining It
You wake up to a strange smell, or you walk into the bedroom and see that dreaded wet circle on the bed. Your dog looks guilty, the mattress looks ruined, and your brain is already racing through worst case scenarios. If you are standing there with a roll of paper towels and zero idea what to do next, you are not alone. As someone who has worked with mattresses and sleep health for two decades, I can tell you that this is one of the most common “panic calls” I hear from pet parents.
Dog urine on a mattress feels like more than just a mess. It hits your wallet, since a good mattress is a major investment. It can affect your health, because lingering urine can harbor bacteria and worsen allergies or asthma, and according to organizations like the Mayo Clinic, poor sleep quality can aggravate everything from mood to blood pressure. It also impacts your relationship with sleep, because once you start worrying about stains and smells, it is very hard to fully relax at night.
The good news is that most dog pee accidents are fixable if you act quickly and use the right approach. You do not need harsh chemicals, complicated gadgets, or a brand new mattress delivered tomorrow. You do need to understand how urine behaves in different mattress materials, what actually neutralizes odor instead of just covering it up, and how to protect your bed long term so one accident does not turn into an ongoing problem.
You are in the right place if you want a calm, step by step guide from someone who works with mattresses every day. You will learn exactly how to get fresh and dried dog pee out of a mattress, how to get rid of that “I swear I still smell it” odor, when it might be time to replace your mattress, and how to choose the right protectors and beds so you and your dog both sleep better. We will walk through everything together so you can save your mattress, your money, and your sleep.
Why Dog Pee On A Mattress Is Different From Other Spills
Dog pee is not just “water with a smell.” It is a complex mix of urea, salts, hormones, and in many dogs, a fairly strong ammonia component. Veterinary researchers have found that dog urine can be more concentrated than human urine, which is why that smell hangs around so stubbornly when it gets into fabrics and foams. On a flat surface like tile, this is annoying but simple. On a thick, absorbent mattress, it is a different story.
Mattresses are designed to be breathable and pressure relieving. That means layers of foam, fiber, and cushioning that happily absorb moisture. When urine seeps down into those layers, it spreads sideways and downward, often farther than what you can see on the surface. This is why a tiny-looking stain can produce a much larger shadow when you peek under the cover or remove the sheets. It is also why a quick wipe on top almost never solves the problem.
From a sleep health perspective, a soiled mattress is not just a cosmetic issue. According to the Sleep Foundation, allergens, dust mites, and moisture in a mattress can all play a role in disrupted sleep and nighttime congestion. Add dog urine into that mix, and you have an environment where odor, bacteria, and irritants are more likely to collect. If anyone in your home has asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin, this matters even more.
There is also an emotional side that does not get talked about enough. Many pet parents feel guilty, frustrated, or even angry when a beloved dog has an accident on the bed. If your dog is older, anxious, or dealing with a medical issue, the mattress suddenly becomes a reminder of something bigger going on. Part of taking care of the mess is also lowering your stress level, so you can make clear decisions about cleaning, prevention, and whether your dog should keep sleeping on the bed.
Finally, it helps to know that mattress materials respond differently to moisture. A dense memory foam mattress, like many in our best foam mattress collection, will soak in urine more slowly but also hold onto it longer if it is not cleaned correctly. A hybrid model with coils, such as a Sealy Posturepedic Elite Soft Hybrid Mattress – Brenham II, can allow more airflow during drying, but urine can still find its way into comfort layers if you delay treatment. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right cleaning steps and set realistic expectations.
“I was sure my mattress was done for after our 70-pound lab had an accident while we were out. Mia’s step by step advice helped me save a $1,500 hybrid mattress with things I already had at home, plus an enzyme cleaner from the pet store. Three months later there is zero smell and no stain.” – Karen S., November
Step By Step: How To Get Fresh Dog Pee Out Of A Mattress
When the accident is recent and the mattress is still wet, you have the best chance of a full recovery. The goal is to pull as much urine as possible out of the mattress, then neutralize what is left without saturating the bed so deeply that it takes days to dry. You will be tempted to scrub or reach for the strongest cleaner in the house. Try to resist both of those impulses.
Start by stripping all bedding and getting sheets, blankets, and mattress pads into the washing machine right away. Use the warmest water temperature that the fabric care label allows, plus a quality detergent. The Sleep Foundation notes that warm or hot water helps break down body fluids more effectively than cold water, and you can add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle if any odor lingers. Getting the bedding out of the way also helps you see exactly how big the damage is on the mattress surface.
Next, you want to blot, not rub. Use clean, absorbent towels and press firmly into the wet area. Imagine you are trying to draw the liquid up and out, not push it sideways into new places. Continue shifting to dry sections of the towel until you are no longer lifting much moisture. If the accident is large and the mattress is very wet, you can stand or kneel on the towel to apply more pressure, as long as you do not twist or scrub.
Once you have removed as much liquid as possible, you can move on to a gentle cleaning and deodorizing solution. A common home mixture is two cups of cool water, one cup of white vinegar, and a small amount of mild, dye free detergent in a spray bottle. Apply enough to thoroughly dampen, but not flood, the stained area. Vinegar helps break down some of the odor causing compounds in urine, and baking soda, which you will use later, helps neutralize pH. This combination is gentle enough for most mattresses, but always check your warranty or care tag first.
After letting the solution sit for 10 to 15 minutes, blot again with clean towels. Then, sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for at least 8 hours. Baking soda acts like a sponge for both moisture and odor. When it is fully dry, vacuum it up using an upholstery attachment. At this point, many fresh accidents will be essentially resolved, though you may choose to repeat the process if you still see a faint ring or smell anything unusual.
How To Remove Dried Or Old Dog Pee Stains
Dried urine is more challenging, but it is not automatically a lost cause. When dog pee has been on the mattress for days, weeks, or even longer, the moisture has evaporated while many of the salts and odor causing compounds remain. This is why old stains often smell stronger when humidity rises or when you lay down and warm up the mattress surface at night.
The first step with older stains is to “re-activate” the area in a controlled way. You want to add enough cleaning solution that it penetrates to roughly the same depth as the original urine, without soaking the entire mattress. A vinegar based solution similar to the one mentioned above works for many stains, or you can use a pet specific enzyme cleaner that is safe for fabrics and foam. Enzyme cleaners contain biological agents that help break down the proteins and compounds in urine, and there is good support in veterinary and cleaning literature for their effectiveness on pet messes.
Spray the stained area until it is evenly damp, then gently press with a clean cloth to help the solution move downward. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can wear on the mattress cover and push the stain sideways. For deeper, stubborn stains, you can place a layer of plastic wrap over the treatment area after spraying, which slows evaporation and gives the solution more time to work. Leaving this in place for several hours, or even overnight, can improve results.
After you remove the plastic, let the mattress air dry thoroughly. You can speed things up with fans and open windows, but skip the hair dryer, which can overheat foam and fabrics. Once the area feels fully dry, apply baking soda again, leave it for several hours, and then vacuum. You may need to repeat this process one or two more times for very old stains. Take your time and allow full drying between rounds so you are not trapping moisture deep in the mattress.
At some point, it is fair to ask yourself whether the mattress is worth saving. If the stain area is very large, if the odor remains strong even after multiple cleanings, or if you see any signs of mold or deterioration when you gently unzip a removable cover, it may be healthier and more cost effective to replace the mattress. Many pet parents choose a well constructed hybrid like the Sealy Posturepedic Pro Medium Mattress – Dupont II Euro Pillow Top because the coil support and quality foams hold up better to everyday moisture and use compared to cheap, low density all foam beds.
“We bought a bargain mattress online and our senior beagle had repeated accidents during a health scare. After the third deep clean it still smelled and the surface felt lumpy. We upgraded to a Sealy Posturepedic from Sleepology, plus a waterproof protector, and it has been night and day. I wish we had not wasted money on the first one.” – Jordan P., October
How To Get Dog Pee Smell Out Of A Mattress Completely
Sometimes the stain is gone or barely visible, but the smell will not let go. Odor is where a lot of people get stuck, because your nose can still pick up very low levels of urine compounds, especially at night when the room is quiet and you are focused on falling asleep. According to organizations like the Cleveland Clinic, strong or unfamiliar smells at night can be surprisingly disruptive to sleep quality, even if you do not fully wake up.
The basic tools for odor removal are the same, but you will lean more heavily on baking soda, repeated ventilation, and enzyme based deodorizers that are specifically designed for pet urine. Start with a clean, dry mattress surface. Sprinkle a thin but even layer of baking soda over the entire top, not just the stained area. This helps absorb odors that may have spread more widely than the visible stain suggests. Leave it in place for a minimum of 8 to 10 hours, or ideally a full day if you can sleep elsewhere for a night.
Vacuum thoroughly, then evaluate. If you still detect odor when you put your nose close to the area, repeat the baking soda treatment. Once you have done two or three rounds, you can introduce an enzyme odor neutralizer made for mattresses and upholstery. Follow label directions carefully, and always test a small hidden area first to confirm there is no discoloration. Use only enough product to lightly dampen the area, then let it dry fully with active airflow in the room.
Fresh air is a powerful ally here. Whenever possible, open windows and run a fan across the surface of the mattress after treatments. This encourages off gassing of residual odors and helps the inner layers dry. Avoid covering a recently treated area with plastic, heavy comforters, or non breathable toppers, which can trap moisture and prolong smell issues.
If you are someone with a sensitive nose, you might also consider layering a quality, breathable mattress protector on top once the mattress is clean and dry. A waterproof protector like the TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Protector – Waterproof Mattress Cover, Hypoallergenic adds a physical barrier that future accidents cannot easily penetrate, while also providing a fresh, clean surface that many people find reassuring after dealing with a stubborn odor problem.
Special Considerations For Pet Urine Versus Human Urine
Dog urine behaves differently from a child’s nighttime accident, and that matters for cleaning. Dogs often have more concentrated urine, especially if they are not drinking enough water, are older, or have certain medical conditions. This higher concentration of urea and other compounds can create a sharper smell that clings longer in porous materials. Some dogs also return to the same spot if they can still smell even faint traces, which means an incomplete cleaning invites repeat accidents.
Enzyme cleaners are particularly valuable for pet urine because they target the organic components that conventional detergents and vinegar might not fully break down. Many veterinary dermatology and cleaning guides recommend them as a first line for carpets and upholstery with pet accidents. When using them on a mattress, always verify that the product is safe for foams and fabrics, fragrance free or low fragrance, and non toxic once dry.
Another difference is volume and pattern. A small dog might leave a modest spot near the edge of the bed, while a large breed can soak a good portion of the mattress in one event. Urine at the very edge of a mattress can also drip down the side or collect near seams, which are common weak points in mattress protectors. Take extra time inspecting these areas when you clean, and run your hand gently along the side panel to check for dampness.
You should also factor in your dog’s health. If accidents are frequent or your dog seems unable to hold urine, talk to your veterinarian. Conditions like urinary tract infections, diabetes, Cushing’s disease, or age related incontinence are common reasons for new or worsening indoor accidents. Treating the underlying issue not only helps your dog feel better, it also protects your sleep space and reduces the stress of repeated deep cleaning.
Finally, think ahead about how your dog uses your bedroom. If your dog loves to curl up near your feet but has occasional bladder issues, it may make sense to use a washable dog blanket or to place a waterproof pad under the fitted sheet on their favorite area of the bed. Protecting higher impact zones is smarter than trying to cover every square inch of your home with plastic.
Cleaning Techniques By Mattress Type
Not every mattress needs the exact same approach. The core design and materials affect how quickly urine spreads, how easily it dries, and how much cleaning solution it can safely tolerate without damage. Understanding this helps you avoid over saturating delicate foams or under treating thick, absorbent comfort layers.
On memory foam mattresses, which you will see in many models within our best foam mattress collection, slow response foam can absorb liquid more gradually but hold onto it like a sponge. You want to be conservative with liquids, focusing on blotting, light spray applications, and longer dry times with strong airflow. Avoid aggressive twisting, folding, or standing on the mattress to squeeze water out, since that can crack or permanently compress foam layers.
Hybrid mattresses that combine springs and foam, such as the Sealy Posturepedic Elite Soft Hybrid Mattress – Brenham II, usually dry better because the coil system allows more airflow. The tradeoff is that fluid can sometimes travel through stitching channels and seams. Thorough surface blotting and baking soda treatments are still your first line, followed by moderate use of cleaning solutions and generous time to air out.
Traditional innerspring mattresses with quilted tops and thinner foam layers can be somewhat more forgiving, but they also tend to have more nooks where moisture can settle. Here again, gentleness matters. Avoid strong chemical cleaners like bleach or high concentration hydrogen peroxide, which can break down fibers and coatings. Instead, stick with mild detergents, vinegar solutions, and pet safe enzyme products.
If you are dealing with a mattress that already has visible wear, sagging, or exposed inner materials, be honest with yourself about its remaining lifespan. The cost and effort of aggressive cleaning on a mattress that is already unsupportive may not be worth it. Upgrading to a more supportive bed, like the Sealy Posturepedic Pro Soft Mattress – Dupont II Euro Pillow Top, plus a reliable protector, can be a much better long term investment in your sleep health.
“Our old guest mattress flooded with pee after our anxious rescue dog panicked during a thunderstorm. It was already saggy, so Mia helped us decide it was time to replace it. We went with a Sealy medium Euro pillow top that works for different guests, added a waterproof protector, and even our dog prefers her washable bed now.” – Alicia D., September
Comparison: Cleaning Challenges By Mattress Type
To make this easier to visualize, here is a quick comparison of how different mattress types typically respond to dog pee accidents and cleaning.
| Mattress Type | How It Handles Moisture | Cleaning Difficulty | Key Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Foam / Memory Foam | Absorbs slowly, holds moisture in place | Moderate to high | Use minimal liquid, long dry time, avoid twisting or compressing foam |
| Hybrid (Foam + Coils) | Absorbs in comfort layers, better airflow through coils | Moderate | Check seams and edges, allow ample ventilation, support while drying |
| Traditional Innerspring | Quilted top absorbs, core has airflow | Moderate | Avoid harsh chemicals, target quilting and padding layers most |
| Pillow Top / Euro Top | Very absorbent upper layers | Higher | Extra blotting needed, repeated baking soda, careful with heavy saturation |
This table is a general guide, not a strict rule. Always check the care instructions for your specific mattress model, and when in doubt, err on the side of using less liquid and more time.
When Is It Time To Replace A Urine Soaked Mattress?
No one likes to hear that a mattress might be beyond saving, especially if it was a recent purchase. Still, there are times when replacement is the healthiest and most cost effective choice. Part of building true expertise is being honest about those limits, not promising that every bed can be magically restored no matter what.
One red flag is odor that simply does not budge. If you have completed multiple rounds of blotting, vinegar or enzyme treatment, long baking soda soaks, and thorough ventilation, yet you still smell dog pee when you walk into the room, that suggests urine has penetrated deeply or affected materials in a way that is hard to reverse. At that point, you have to weigh ongoing sleep disruption and cleaning time against the price of a new mattress.
Visible damage is another sign. If you pull back the cover and see foam that has crumbled, discolored patches that keep spreading, or any signs of mold or mildew, replacement is the safest option. Mold can be particularly concerning for people with asthma or allergies, and it is difficult to fully eradicate inside the many layers of a mattress. Health organizations like the Mayo Clinic note that chronic exposure to indoor mold can trigger respiratory symptoms and should be taken seriously.
Also consider the age and comfort of the mattress. If it is already 8 to 10 years old, sagging, or no longer supporting you well, then a major urine incident often tips the scales toward retirement. The benefit of a fresh, supportive surface plus a clean slate on hygiene can be tremendous for your sleep quality. Many shoppers in report that hybrid or foam hybrid mattresses help them stay more comfortable across different sleep positions, as long as they are properly protected from day one.
When you do replace a mattress after a pet accident, treat it as a chance to upgrade your entire sleep setup. Pair a supportive mattress like the Sealy Posturepedic Plus Firm Mattress – Paterson II Euro Pillow Top with a sturdy foundation such as the Sealy Mattress Base Boxspring Foundation | Low Profile 5-inch height. Then add a waterproof protector and appropriate bedding. You will sleep better knowing both you and your mattress are getting proper support.
How To Prevent Future Dog Pee Accidents On Your Mattress
Once you have dealt with one accident, prevention suddenly feels very appealing. The good news is that a handful of smart habits and accessories can radically reduce the chances that you will be deep cleaning a mattress at midnight again. Think of this as building a layered defense system around your bed, your dog, and your sleep.
A high quality waterproof mattress protector is the single most powerful tool. Unlike a plastic, crinkly cover, today’s better protectors use breathable membranes bonded to soft fabrics, so you do not feel like you are sleeping on a tarp. A model like the TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Protector – Waterproof Mattress Cover, Hypoallergenic blocks liquids from reaching the foam and quilting beneath, while still allowing airflow. Wash it regularly, especially after any minor spills, to keep it fresh and effective.
Next, think about giving your dog an appealing alternative sleeping spot. Many dogs prefer having their own bed nearby, especially if it is cushioned and smells like their favorite people. A supportive topper or set of pillows, like the Tempur-Pedic® Mattress Topper - Pillow Travel and Guest Bundle, can be used to create a cozy nest on the floor, couch, or even the foot of the bed, as long as it is covered with a washable layer. When dogs feel secure and have a consistent place to settle, accidents on the main mattress often drop.
It is also wise to pay attention to timing and routines. Ensure your dog has a chance to relieve themselves right before bedtime, and consider restricting water intake in the final hour before sleep for dogs who tend to drink heavily at night, always in coordination with guidance from your vet. If your pet is anxious or triggered by storms, fireworks, or household changes, talk to your veterinarian about calming strategies or medications. Addressing anxiety can significantly reduce stress urination events.
Finally, build regular mattress hygiene into your routine. Vacuuming your mattress a few times a year, washing protectors and sheets in warm water, and rotating or flipping your mattress as recommended by the manufacturer all help keep your sleep environment healthier. According to research cited by the Sleep Foundation, a clean, comfortable sleep setup can translate into better sleep continuity and higher reported sleep satisfaction, which is the whole point of investing in a good mattress in the first place.
A Simple Checklist For Handling Dog Pee On A Mattress
Once you understand the “why” behind each step, it can help to have a quick reference you can follow in the moment. Here is a concise checklist you can save or print so you feel less panicked if your dog has another accident.
- Strip all bedding and wash in warm water with detergent, adding white vinegar to the rinse if odor persists
- Blot the wet area of the mattress with clean towels, pressing firmly but never scrubbing
- Apply a gentle vinegar or enzyme based cleaning solution, taking care not to over saturate the mattress
- Blot again to remove excess liquid, then sprinkle baking soda generously over the damp area
- Let the baking soda sit for 8 to 10 hours or overnight, then vacuum thoroughly
- Repeat baking soda and ventilation if any odor lingers, and consider an enzyme deodorizer if needed
- Once fully clean and dry, add a breathable waterproof mattress protector to prevent future damage
Having a plan written out can be surprisingly calming. When something goes wrong at bedtime, your brain is usually tired and a bit overwhelmed. Following a simple sequence like this takes some of the emotion out of the process and helps you focus on what you can control.
How Sleepology Products Support A Cleaner, Healthier Bed
Cleaning up dog pee is about fixing what just happened, but your long term sleep quality depends on the structure of your sleep system. As a sleepologist, I look at the entire setup, not just the stain. The right combination of mattress, foundation, protector, and bedding can make day to day living with pets much easier and less stressful.
Start with support. A mattress that keeps your spine aligned reduces tossing and turning, which means you and your dog are less likely to jostle each other or knock over nighttime water glasses. Models like the Sealy Posturepedic Elite Medium Mattress – Brenham II Euro Pillow Top balance cushioning comfort with targeted support zones, which is especially helpful for couples and restless sleepers. Pairing it with a stable base, such as the Sealy Mattress Base Boxspring Foundation | Low Profile 5-inch height, helps maintain that performance over time.
Next, layer in comfort and protection. Our Pillows, Sheets, Toppers, Protectors collection includes breathable sheet sets, hypoallergenic pillow options, and toppers that can fine tune firmness without trapping heat. Many of these pieces are machine washable, which means that even if your mattress stays dry under a protector, you can still freshen everything your body and your dog actually touch each night.
If you or a partner experiences reflux, snoring, or chronic pain, an Adjustable Bed Frame and Base can also play a role in a cleaner, more comfortable sleep life. Slightly elevating the head of the bed can reduce the need for extra pillows that tend to migrate, get kicked to the floor, and occasionally become targets for anxious dogs. It also makes it easier to sit, read, or watch a movie with your dog beside you while still keeping main bedding neatly in place.
When you put all these elements together, you get more than just a mattress that survived a dog pee incident. You get a thoughtfully built sleep environment that stands up to real life, including kids, pets, and everyday spills. That means fewer frantic cleanups and more nights of deep, restorative sleep, which every study on long term health tells us is one of the best investments we can make in our well being.
Conclusion: You Can Save Your Mattress And Your Sleep
Dog pee on a mattress feels like a disaster in the moment, but it does not have to mean living with permanent stains, mystery odors, or the cost of a brand new bed. With prompt blotting, gentle but thorough cleaning solutions, and patience for proper drying, most accidents are manageable. Even dried or older stains can often be dramatically improved with enzyme based cleaners and repeated baking soda treatments.
The deeper win here is learning how to protect your sleep space for the long haul. By combining smart prevention habits, veterinary support when needed, and the right layers of mattress, foundation, protector, and bedding, you can create a bed that is truly dog friendly and human healthy. Organizations like the Sleep Foundation and Cleveland Clinic consistently highlight the link between a clean, comfortable sleep environment and better sleep quality, and your mattress is the heart of that environment.
If you are feeling discouraged or overwhelmed, take a breath. You handled one of the most stressful household mishaps there is while caring about both your dog and your sleep. With what you now know, each future decision gets easier, from cleaning up a small spot to choosing your next protector or mattress. And if you ever want a second opinion on whether a mattress is worth saving or how to upgrade your setup, Sleepology is here to help you think it through, step by step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do I need to act when my dog pees on the mattress?
Ideally, you should start blotting within minutes of discovering the accident. The longer urine sits, the deeper it can penetrate into foams and fibers, and the harder it becomes to remove completely. That said, even if you are finding it hours later, it is still worth going through the full cleaning process. Focus on removing as much liquid as possible, then follow up with gentle cleaning and deodorizing rather than assuming the mattress is ruined.
Is it safe to use hydrogen peroxide or bleach on a urine stain?
Bleach is not recommended on mattresses, especially where you sleep and breathe for hours every night. It can damage fabrics, weaken fibers, and leave behind fumes or residues that are not ideal for your lungs. Low concentration hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used on light colored fabrics, but it can still cause discoloration and may break down foams over time. For both safety and mattress durability, mild detergent, vinegar solutions, baking soda, and pet specific enzyme cleaners are safer and usually more effective choices.
Will a mattress protector really stop dog pee from getting into the mattress?
A true waterproof mattress protector with a quality membrane layer will stop most spills, including dog urine, from reaching the mattress core if it is fitted correctly and not torn or worn out. The key is choosing a protector that is both waterproof and breathable, then washing and inspecting it regularly. Models like the TEMPUR-Adapt Mattress Protector – Waterproof Mattress Cover, Hypoallergenic are designed to block liquids while still allowing air movement, which keeps your sleep surface more comfortable.
How do I know if my mattress is too damaged by urine and needs to be replaced?
Look for a combination of factors. Persistent odor after multiple cleanings, visible mold or spreading discoloration under the cover, foam that crumbles when touched, or a mattress that is already sagging and uncomfortable are all strong indicators that replacement is the healthier choice. If the mattress is more than 8 to 10 years old, or if you wake up with more aches and less rest even when it is clean, it is often more cost effective to invest in a new, well protected mattress rather than continuing to fight with an older, damaged one.
Can repeated dog pee accidents affect my health if I sleep on that mattress?
Yes, they can. Repeated urine exposure increases moisture and organic material in your mattress, which can contribute to odor, bacterial growth, and potentially mold if drying is incomplete. For people with asthma, allergies, or sensitive skin, this can worsen symptoms or lead to more nighttime congestion and coughing. Health organizations emphasize the importance of a clean sleep environment for respiratory health, so if accidents are frequent, prioritize thorough cleaning, protective layers, vet care for your dog, and potentially replacing a badly affected mattress.
What is the best way to clean bedding and pillows after a dog pee accident?
For sheets, pillowcases, and washable blankets, use the warmest water temperature allowed on the care label, along with a good detergent. Pre rinse or soak heavily soiled items in cool water first, then wash. Adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help with lingering odor. For pillows and comforters, check whether they are machine washable. Many down alternative products are, while real down may require more delicate care. Always dry thoroughly, ideally in a dryer, to prevent internal moisture from creating musty smells.
Should I let my dog keep sleeping on the bed after a urine accident?
This depends on why the accident happened and how often it is occurring. If it was a one time event due to a stomach bug or an unusually long day, and your mattress is now well protected, many pet parents choose to keep dogs on the bed. If accidents are frequent, or related to anxiety or medical issues that are not yet managed, it may be kinder to both of you to provide a comfortable, washable dog bed near your bed while you work with your vet. A cozy alternative spot, consistent routines, and a properly protected mattress usually create the best balance between closeness and cleanliness.