By Jenny Smith 
You’re not alone. Thousands of people ask the same question online every month: how to get wee out of a sofa? And unfortunately, most quick fixes only mask the problem. This guide breaks down what works, using insights from real users and expert advice, so your sofa doesn’t have to suffer permanently.
Why Urine Is So Hard to Remove from a Sofa
Urine penetrates deeply into the fabric, padding, and even wood or metal framing inside a sleeper sofa. If not treated quickly and correctly, it can cause:
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Persistent ammonia-like odors
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Bacterial growth and mold
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Stains that become permanent
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Embarrassment when guests visit
On Reddit and cleaning forums, users report that vinegar and baking soda alone often don’t solve the problem, especially when the pee has soaked into foam cushions or mattress layers.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Pee Smell Out of Your Sofa
H2: 1. Blot Immediately and Avoid Rubbing
The first and most important step is to blot up as much moisture as possible using paper towels or a microfiber cloth. Press gently but thoroughly.
🚫 Don’t rub the spot—Reddit users warn this spreads the urine deeper into the foam.
If you have a wet/dry vacuum, this is the perfect time to use it.
H2: 2. Spray with a Vinegar Solution
Mix a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water and spray it directly on the affected area. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Vinegar neutralizes urine’s pH and helps lift fresh stains.
Then blot again to absorb the excess liquid.
H2: 3. Sprinkle Baking Soda and Let It Sit Overnight
Cover the spot with a generous amount of baking soda and leave it for several hours—or overnight if possible. Baking soda draws out odor and moisture. Vacuum it up once fully dry.
💡 One Redditor noted that this step helped with smell but didn’t fully eliminate pet urine odor, especially cat pee.
H2: 4. Use an Enzymatic Cleaner for Persistent Smell
For pet urine or deeper odors, a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner (like Nature’s Miracle or Rocco & Roxie) is essential. These break down the proteins in urine that cause odor and bacteria.
Make sure to test the cleaner on a hidden spot first to avoid discoloration.
H2: 5. For Sleeper Sofas, Check Internal Layers
If you own a sleeper sofa, unzip the cushion covers and check whether the mattress or frame is affected. Urine can easily soak down to the foam or the bed frame.
To address this:
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Clean the surface of the mattress with an enzyme spray
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Use a steam cleaner if the fabric allows
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Air-dry the mattress in sunlight
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Replace foam inserts if the smell persists
🧼 According to users on The Spruce and Quora, foam often needs replacing if odor lingers after multiple treatments.
How to Prevent It from Happening Again
Life happens. That’s why it’s smart to invest in sofas with protective materials, like waterproof fabric, stain-resistant finishes, or washable cushion covers. And that’s where Povison makes a difference.
Tired of stressing over little spills and big messes? At Povison, the world’s best fully assembled furniture brand, we believe your sofa should work as hard as you do, without sacrificing style.
Imagine sinking into the Vintage Chenille Sofa Waterproof Loveseat Sofa after a long day—its plush chenille fabric wraps you in warmth, while the hidden waterproof lining quietly shields against accidents. Whether it’s juice spills, puppy puddles, or potty-training mishaps, this loveseat takes it all in stride, so you can breathe easy and enjoy family time.
Prefer clean lines with a clever edge? The Modern Beige Sofa with Curved Armrests and Carbon Steel Legs brings effortless elegance to busy homes. Its subtly curved arms offer visual softness, while the high-performance fabric resists scratches, stains, and surprise spills. Think of it as your chic-but-tough living room ally—always ready, never fussy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is baking soda enough to remove urine smell from a sofa?
A: It helps reduce odor, but for pet urine or old stains, you’ll need an enzyme cleaner for full removal.
Q: Can I use essential oils to cover the smell?
A: You can mask it temporarily, but without proper cleaning, the smell will return.
Q: How long does it take to fully remove the smell?
A: It depends on the depth of the stain. Minor accidents may clear after one cleaning. Deep stains might require multiple rounds or professional help.
Q: What are the best sofa materials for preventing stains?
A: Waterproof polyester, faux leather, microfiber, and treated chenille are top choices.
Don’t Let a Small Accident Ruin Your Sofa
Whether it’s a potty-training toddler or a mischievous pet, a urine accident doesn’t have to mean disaster. With quick action, the right cleaning method, and preventative furniture choices, your sofa can stay fresh, odor-free, and guest-ready.
Looking for sofas that make cleanup easy? Browse Povison today to discover beautiful, durable, and fully assembled furniture designed for real life. That’s why we’re proud to be known as the world’s best fully assembled furniture brand.
