How to wash cat urine out of bedding

Learn practical steps to effectively wash cat urine from bedding, ensuring freshness and eliminating odors with simple household solutions.
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Rocco & Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator Spray
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Arm & Hammer OxiClean Laundry Detergent - 5 Gallon
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For immediate relief from unwanted scents on your linens, grab some baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount directly on the affected area, allowing it to absorb the odor for at least 15 minutes. This natural deodorizer works wonders in neutralizing the smell.

Next, prepare a solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, using equal parts. Lightly mist the stained area with this mixture, avoiding oversaturation. The acetic acid in vinegar breaks down the components responsible for the lingering scent.

After applying the vinegar solution, gently blot the area with a clean cloth to lift the stain and odor. Follow up by washing the fabric in the hottest water safe for the material, adding a cup of baking soda to your regular detergent for an extra boost. This combination will help eliminate any remaining traces.

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Once the washing cycle is complete, check the fabric before drying. If any scent persists, repeat the previous steps. Air drying the fabric outside can also help, as fresh air and sunlight work effectively to remove stubborn odors.

Removing Stains and Odor

For immediate relief, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Follow with blotting using a clean cloth until the spot is lifted. Avoid rubbing; it can spread the issue.

Hot Pick
Rocco & Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator Spray
Perfect for tough pet odors and stains
This enzyme-powered spray effectively eliminates stains and odors caused by pets on various surfaces. Safe for use around children and pets, it leaves no residues behind.
Amazon price updated: October 22, 2025 2:50 am

Dealing with Residual Smell

After treating the area, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the damp spot. This will absorb any lingering scent. Allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before vacuuming it up. This dual approach is crucial in ensuring the area is fresh again.

Final Cleaning Steps

If the fabric is machine washable, use a detergent designed for pet odors. Set the machine on a cold cycle. Adding an enzymatic cleaner can enhance the process, breaking down proteins that cause persistent odors. Always check care labels for specific washing instructions.

Preparing Bedding and Choosing Cleaning Solutions

First, remove all items from the area, including sheets, pillows, and blankets. Check for any stains or lingering odors before proceeding with the cleaning process. This step ensures that the entire surface is accessible and allows for a thorough treatment.

For effective elimination, it’s vital to select the right cleaning agents. Enzymatic cleaners are my top recommendation as they break down the compounds causing the smell. These products penetrate fibers, offering a deep clean. Look for options specifically designed for organic stains.

Trending Now
ANGRY ORANGE Enzyme Cleaner - 1 Gallon
Powerful citrus cleaner for pet messes
This enzyme cleaner tackles stubborn pet stains and odors effectively, leaving a fresh citrus scent. Ideal for a wide range of surfaces, it breaks down even tough messes.
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Vinegar is a natural alternative that works wonders. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution neutralizes odors and helps lift stains. After application, let it sit for at least 15 minutes before blotting with a clean cloth.

Baking soda can also be beneficial. After treating with a cleaner, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the area to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Vacuum it up after a few hours for a fresher scent.

If the fabric is machine washable, use a suitable detergent. Check the care label for temperature settings. Hot water often aids in breaking down stains, but ensure the fabric can withstand it.

Finally, always perform a patch test with any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area to prevent damage or discoloration. This precaution helps maintain the integrity of your treasured fabrics.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process for Cat Urine Stains

First, gather your supplies: white vinegar, baking soda, an enzyme cleaner, and a clean cloth. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid strong odors.

Step 1: Blotting

Use a clean cloth to blot the affected area. Press firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain further.

Step 2: Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture generously onto the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to neutralize the odor.

Step 3: Baking Soda Application

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the treated area. This helps to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Let it sit for several hours, or overnight if possible.

Step 4: Enzyme Cleaner

After the baking soda has had time to work, use an enzyme cleaner for deep cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the stain. These products break down the compounds in the mess.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After the enzyme cleaner has done its job, rinse the area with clean water and blot again with a dry cloth. Ensure it’s thoroughly dried to prevent any lingering smells.

Must-Have
Pooph Pet Odor Eliminator Spray - 32oz
Instant odor dismantling with no chemicals
Pooph provides a safe and effective way to eliminate pet odors at the molecular level, ensuring lasting freshness without harsh fragrances or chemicals.
Amazon price updated: October 22, 2025 2:50 am

For additional guidance on tackling tougher stains, check out how do you clean cat urine out of a mattress.

FAQ:

What is the best way to remove cat urine from bedding?

To effectively remove cat urine from bedding, first, you should act quickly. Blot the area with paper towels to absorb as much liquid as possible. Next, rinse the affected area with cold water. After that, apply a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) to neutralize the odor. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wash the bedding in your washing machine with a laundry detergent. It’s advisable to add a cup of baking soda for extra odor removal. Finally, dry the bedding in sunlight if possible, as the sun helps eliminate lingering smells.

Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash bedding with cat urine?

While regular laundry detergent can help clean bedding, it may not fully eliminate the odor of cat urine. To ensure complete removal, it’s recommended to use a specialized enzymatic cleaner designed for pet stains. These cleaners break down the proteins in urine that cause the smell. If you choose to use standard detergent, consider adding an enzyme-based additive or baking soda to enhance the cleaning process. Always check the labels of your products to ensure they are safe for the fabric of your bedding.

What if the cat urine stain has dried on the bedding?

If the cat urine stain has dried, it can be more challenging to remove, but it is still possible. Start by gently scraping off any crusted material with a dull knife or spoon. Then, rehydrate the stain with a mixture of vinegar and water to loosen it. After allowing it to sit for about 10-15 minutes, blot the area with a clean cloth. Next, wash the bedding in hot water with a strong detergent and an enzymatic cleaner to break down the dried urine. If the smell persists after washing, repeat the process or consider soaking the bedding in a vinegar solution before the wash. Dry it outside in the sun, which can help eliminate any remaining odor.

For immediate relief from unwanted scents on your linens, grab some baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount directly on the affected area, allowing it to absorb the odor for at least 15 minutes. This natural deodorizer works wonders in neutralizing the smell.

Next, prepare a solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, using equal parts. Lightly mist the stained area with this mixture, avoiding oversaturation. The acetic acid in vinegar breaks down the components responsible for the lingering scent.

After applying the vinegar solution, gently blot the area with a clean cloth to lift the stain and odor. Follow up by washing the fabric in the hottest water safe for the material, adding a cup of baking soda to your regular detergent for an extra boost. This combination will help eliminate any remaining traces.

Top Rated
Arm & Hammer OxiClean Laundry Detergent - 5 Gallon
Cleans 492 loads with powerful stain-fighting
This professional-grade laundry detergent combines the cleaning strength of baking soda and OxiClean for exceptional stain removal and freshness across 492 loads.
Amazon price updated: October 22, 2025 2:50 am

Once the washing cycle is complete, check the fabric before drying. If any scent persists, repeat the previous steps. Air drying the fabric outside can also help, as fresh air and sunlight work effectively to remove stubborn odors.

Removing Stains and Odor

For immediate relief, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Follow with blotting using a clean cloth until the spot is lifted. Avoid rubbing; it can spread the issue.

Dealing with Residual Smell

After treating the area, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the damp spot. This will absorb any lingering scent. Allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before vacuuming it up. This dual approach is crucial in ensuring the area is fresh again.

Final Cleaning Steps

If the fabric is machine washable, use a detergent designed for pet odors. Set the machine on a cold cycle. Adding an enzymatic cleaner can enhance the process, breaking down proteins that cause persistent odors. Always check care labels for specific washing instructions.

Must-Have
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator - 1 Gallon
Effective against strong pet odors
This powerful cleaner tackles tough pet odors and stains with the natural scent of orange, providing a safe cleaning solution for homes with pets.
Amazon price updated: October 22, 2025 2:50 am

Preparing Bedding and Choosing Cleaning Solutions

First, remove all items from the area, including sheets, pillows, and blankets. Check for any stains or lingering odors before proceeding with the cleaning process. This step ensures that the entire surface is accessible and allows for a thorough treatment.

For effective elimination, it’s vital to select the right cleaning agents. Enzymatic cleaners are my top recommendation as they break down the compounds causing the smell. These products penetrate fibers, offering a deep clean. Look for options specifically designed for organic stains.

Vinegar is a natural alternative that works wonders. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution neutralizes odors and helps lift stains. After application, let it sit for at least 15 minutes before blotting with a clean cloth.

Baking soda can also be beneficial. After treating with a cleaner, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the area to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Vacuum it up after a few hours for a fresher scent.

If the fabric is machine washable, use a suitable detergent. Check the care label for temperature settings. Hot water often aids in breaking down stains, but ensure the fabric can withstand it.

Finally, always perform a patch test with any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area to prevent damage or discoloration. This precaution helps maintain the integrity of your treasured fabrics.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process for Cat Urine Stains

First, gather your supplies: white vinegar, baking soda, an enzyme cleaner, and a clean cloth. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid strong odors.

Step 1: Blotting

Use a clean cloth to blot the affected area. Press firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain further.

Step 2: Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture generously onto the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to neutralize the odor.

Step 3: Baking Soda Application

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the treated area. This helps to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Let it sit for several hours, or overnight if possible.

Step 4: Enzyme Cleaner

After the baking soda has had time to work, use an enzyme cleaner for deep cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the stain. These products break down the compounds in the mess.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After the enzyme cleaner has done its job, rinse the area with clean water and blot again with a dry cloth. Ensure it’s thoroughly dried to prevent any lingering smells.

Hot Pick
Zeiff Pro-Grade Multi-Purpose Cleaner - 1 Gallon
Professional-grade cleaning and odor removal
Zeiff offers innovative cleaning solutions that effectively dissolve pet stains and odors while being safe and eco-friendly, suitable for various surfaces.
Amazon price updated: October 22, 2025 2:50 am

For additional guidance on tackling tougher stains, check out how do you clean cat urine out of a mattress.

FAQ:

What is the best way to remove cat urine from bedding?

To effectively remove cat urine from bedding, first, you should act quickly. Blot the area with paper towels to absorb as much liquid as possible. Next, rinse the affected area with cold water. After that, apply a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) to neutralize the odor. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wash the bedding in your washing machine with a laundry detergent. It’s advisable to add a cup of baking soda for extra odor removal. Finally, dry the bedding in sunlight if possible, as the sun helps eliminate lingering smells.

Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash bedding with cat urine?

While regular laundry detergent can help clean bedding, it may not fully eliminate the odor of cat urine. To ensure complete removal, it’s recommended to use a specialized enzymatic cleaner designed for pet stains. These cleaners break down the proteins in urine that cause the smell. If you choose to use standard detergent, consider adding an enzyme-based additive or baking soda to enhance the cleaning process. Always check the labels of your products to ensure they are safe for the fabric of your bedding.

What if the cat urine stain has dried on the bedding?

If the cat urine stain has dried, it can be more challenging to remove, but it is still possible. Start by gently scraping off any crusted material with a dull knife or spoon. Then, rehydrate the stain with a mixture of vinegar and water to loosen it. After allowing it to sit for about 10-15 minutes, blot the area with a clean cloth. Next, wash the bedding in hot water with a strong detergent and an enzymatic cleaner to break down the dried urine. If the smell persists after washing, repeat the process or consider soaking the bedding in a vinegar solution before the wash. Dry it outside in the sun, which can help eliminate any remaining odor.

For immediate relief from unwanted scents on your linens, grab some baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount directly on the affected area, allowing it to absorb the odor for at least 15 minutes. This natural deodorizer works wonders in neutralizing the smell.

Next, prepare a solution of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, using equal parts. Lightly mist the stained area with this mixture, avoiding oversaturation. The acetic acid in vinegar breaks down the components responsible for the lingering scent.

After applying the vinegar solution, gently blot the area with a clean cloth to lift the stain and odor. Follow up by washing the fabric in the hottest water safe for the material, adding a cup of baking soda to your regular detergent for an extra boost. This combination will help eliminate any remaining traces.

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Odorcide Cat Attack Concentrate Odor Eliminator
Proven cat odor neutralizer for homes
This non-enzymatic formula is designed to permanently eliminate cat odors, providing instant and lasting freshness to carpets and upholstery.
Amazon price updated: October 22, 2025 2:50 am

Once the washing cycle is complete, check the fabric before drying. If any scent persists, repeat the previous steps. Air drying the fabric outside can also help, as fresh air and sunlight work effectively to remove stubborn odors.

Removing Stains and Odor

For immediate relief, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Follow with blotting using a clean cloth until the spot is lifted. Avoid rubbing; it can spread the issue.

Dealing with Residual Smell

After treating the area, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the damp spot. This will absorb any lingering scent. Allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before vacuuming it up. This dual approach is crucial in ensuring the area is fresh again.

Final Cleaning Steps

If the fabric is machine washable, use a detergent designed for pet odors. Set the machine on a cold cycle. Adding an enzymatic cleaner can enhance the process, breaking down proteins that cause persistent odors. Always check care labels for specific washing instructions.

Preparing Bedding and Choosing Cleaning Solutions

First, remove all items from the area, including sheets, pillows, and blankets. Check for any stains or lingering odors before proceeding with the cleaning process. This step ensures that the entire surface is accessible and allows for a thorough treatment.

For effective elimination, it’s vital to select the right cleaning agents. Enzymatic cleaners are my top recommendation as they break down the compounds causing the smell. These products penetrate fibers, offering a deep clean. Look for options specifically designed for organic stains.

Vinegar is a natural alternative that works wonders. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution neutralizes odors and helps lift stains. After application, let it sit for at least 15 minutes before blotting with a clean cloth.

Baking soda can also be beneficial. After treating with a cleaner, sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the area to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Vacuum it up after a few hours for a fresher scent.

If the fabric is machine washable, use a suitable detergent. Check the care label for temperature settings. Hot water often aids in breaking down stains, but ensure the fabric can withstand it.

Finally, always perform a patch test with any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area to prevent damage or discoloration. This precaution helps maintain the integrity of your treasured fabrics.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process for Cat Urine Stains

First, gather your supplies: white vinegar, baking soda, an enzyme cleaner, and a clean cloth. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid strong odors.

Step 1: Blotting

Use a clean cloth to blot the affected area. Press firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain further.

Step 2: Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture generously onto the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to neutralize the odor.

Step 3: Baking Soda Application

Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the treated area. This helps to absorb any remaining moisture and odors. Let it sit for several hours, or overnight if possible.

Step 4: Enzyme Cleaner

After the baking soda has had time to work, use an enzyme cleaner for deep cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the stain. These products break down the compounds in the mess.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

After the enzyme cleaner has done its job, rinse the area with clean water and blot again with a dry cloth. Ensure it’s thoroughly dried to prevent any lingering smells.

For additional guidance on tackling tougher stains, check out how do you clean cat urine out of a mattress.

FAQ:

What is the best way to remove cat urine from bedding?

To effectively remove cat urine from bedding, first, you should act quickly. Blot the area with paper towels to absorb as much liquid as possible. Next, rinse the affected area with cold water. After that, apply a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) to neutralize the odor. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wash the bedding in your washing machine with a laundry detergent. It’s advisable to add a cup of baking soda for extra odor removal. Finally, dry the bedding in sunlight if possible, as the sun helps eliminate lingering smells.

Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash bedding with cat urine?

While regular laundry detergent can help clean bedding, it may not fully eliminate the odor of cat urine. To ensure complete removal, it’s recommended to use a specialized enzymatic cleaner designed for pet stains. These cleaners break down the proteins in urine that cause the smell. If you choose to use standard detergent, consider adding an enzyme-based additive or baking soda to enhance the cleaning process. Always check the labels of your products to ensure they are safe for the fabric of your bedding.

What if the cat urine stain has dried on the bedding?

If the cat urine stain has dried, it can be more challenging to remove, but it is still possible. Start by gently scraping off any crusted material with a dull knife or spoon. Then, rehydrate the stain with a mixture of vinegar and water to loosen it. After allowing it to sit for about 10-15 minutes, blot the area with a clean cloth. Next, wash the bedding in hot water with a strong detergent and an enzymatic cleaner to break down the dried urine. If the smell persists after washing, repeat the process or consider soaking the bedding in a vinegar solution before the wash. Dry it outside in the sun, which can help eliminate any remaining odor.

Johnny Gold Jr.
Johnny Gold Jr.

Meow! I’m Johnny Kitten, your Scottish Fold friend. I love naps, treats, and sharing tips to help humans take better care of cats. Here I share my best tips, guides, and fluffy stories.

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