Dealing with nocturnal enuresis or involuntary urination, commonly referred to as bed wetting, can be tedious for both kids and parents. Especially when it comes to cleaning, the task can be quite daunting. However, things can be handled efficiently if you know exactly how to clean up after bed wetting. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on cleaning child’s mattress, removing urine stains and odors, and preventing future accidents.
How to clean up after bed wetting
Start by gathering all required cleaning supplies. This includes a vacuum cleaner, laundry detergent, baking soda, a spray bottle, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and an enzyme cleaner if available.
Step 1: Remove excess urine
If your child wakes up shortly after wetting the bed, this is the ideal time to clean up as much moisture as possible. Using a dry towel, blot the urine from the mattress, applying pressure to absorb excess liquid. Be careful not to rub or scrub as this can push the urine further into the mattress.
Step 2: Spray vinegar solution
Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts of cold water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Saturate the affected area with this vinegar solution. It will not only neutralize the urine stain and pee smell but also acts as a natural disinfectant.
Step 3: Absorb with Baking Soda
Take the baking soda and generously sprinkle it over the vinegar solution until you can’t see the urine stain anymore. Let this dry baking soda sit overnight or for at least 8-10 hours. Baking soda is excellent in absorbing lingering odours and urine residue.
Step 4: Vacuum the dry baking soda
Once the baking soda has dried, it’s time to employ your vacuum cleaner. Thoroughly vacuum the mattress to remove all the dried baking soda. Ensure you have cleaned every nook and cranny.
Step 5: Apply Hydrogen Peroxide
If pee stains persist, apply hydrogen peroxide directly on the mattress stains. It’s a powerful oxidizer that can help lift and eliminate stubborn urine stains.
Step 6: Use an Enzyme Cleaner
For the most stubborn smells and stains, an enzyme cleaner can do wonders. Apply it directly to the stains. The enzymes will break down the proteins in the urine, removing the urine smell and stain for good.
Step 7: Air-dry the Mattress
After all the treatments, allow your mattress to air dry. This will ensure any excess urine or cleaning solution has completely evaporated.
Step 8: Use a Mattress Protector
The best way to prevent urine from soaking into a mattress in the future is by using a mattress cover or waterproof mattress pad. It acts as a barrier to keep your child’s mattress dry and is much easier to clean urine from, in case your child wets the bed again.
Final Thoughts
In the end, make sure that you’re understanding and supportive of your child during this phase. Nocturnal enuresis can be embarrassing for kids. Complementing their efforts to overcome bed wetting and assisting them in cleaning can help to build their confidence.
By knowing how to clean up after bed wetting, you can keep your child’s mattress clean and odor-free. Follow the steps above to remove urine stains and pee smells effectively and ensure your child has a clean and dry bed to sleep in.