Accidents happen—whether it’s from kids, pets, or even a spilled cleaning solution that leaves behind an odor. One of the toughest household challenges is removing urine smell from a Sofa. The odor penetrates deep into cushions and upholstery, and if not treated properly, it can linger for months. Worse yet, the wrong cleaning method can permanently damage the fabric or leather.

This guide explains how to remove pee smell from different sofa materials—including fabric, leather, sponge, and faux leather sofas—and how to maintain your sofa in the long run to keep it fresh, clean, and comfortable. Each method is designed for home and commercial furniture users who want professional results without expensive tools.

1. Why Urine Smell Is Hard to Remove

Urine contains urea, uric acid, and ammonia—compounds that quickly break down and release strong, long-lasting odors. When it soaks into the sofa cushion or upholstery, the smell becomes trapped in both the fabric fibers and the padding foam. As the moisture evaporates, uric acid crystals remain, reactivating the odor whenever the area becomes damp again.

To eliminate the smell completely, you must neutralize the acid and kill the bacteria—not just mask it with perfume or air fresheners.

Common mistakes include:

• Only spraying air fresheners instead of deep cleaning.

• Using hot water, which sets urine stains into fabric.

• Failing to clean the sofa base or foam layers.

• Ignoring invisible residues that lead to recurring odor.

Understanding the type of sofa material is the key to choosing the right treatment method.

2. How to Remove Pee Smell from Fabric Sofas

Fabric sofas are among the most absorbent and commonly used, making them especially challenging when dealing with urine odors. The goal is to neutralize the smell without damaging the fibers.

Step 1: Blot the Spot

Use a dry, white towel to blot as much urine as possible. Avoid rubbing, as that pushes the liquid deeper into the cushion.

Step 2: Apply a Vinegar Solution

Mix:

• 1 part white vinegar

• 1 part distilled water

• 1 teaspoon mild dish soap

Spray lightly over the affected area. Vinegar neutralizes ammonia and breaks down odor-causing compounds. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Blot and Rinse

Dampen a clean towel with plain water and blot again to remove the soap and vinegar solution. Repeat until the cloth comes up clean.

Step 4: Apply Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda generously across the damp area. Leave overnight to absorb odor and moisture, then vacuum the next day.

Step 5: Deep Drying

Air-dry the sofa completely using a fan or open window. If odor persists, use an enzyme cleaner made for pet urine to fully dissolve uric acid residues.

3. How to Clean a Leather Sofa

Leather sofas are elegant and durable, but they can absorb odor through seams or surface pores. Urine not only leaves a smell but can also discolor leather if not treated quickly.

Step 1: Blot Immediately

Use a soft microfiber cloth or paper towel to gently absorb surface moisture. Do not press too hard to avoid spreading liquid or damaging the finish.

Step 2: Gentle Cleaning Solution

Mix:

• 1 cup lukewarm water

• 1 tablespoon mild, non-detergent soap

Dip a soft cloth and wipe the area gently along the leather grain. Avoid soaking.

Step 3: Neutralize the Odor

Combine equal parts of white vinegar and water. Dampen a cloth and gently wipe the surface to neutralize lingering ammonia smell.

Step 4: Dry and Condition

Wipe the area dry and allow it to air-dry away from heat or sunlight. Once dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore flexibility and shine.

For stubborn smells, use a leather-safe enzyme spray to dissolve remaining organic matter. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.

4. How to Remove Pee Smell from Sponge Sofas

Sponge-based sofas or cushions absorb liquid quickly, trapping odor deep inside. Removing the smell requires reaching the foam layer and neutralizing bacteria.

Step 1: Remove Covers

If possible, unzip and wash the sofa covers separately. Use cold water and enzyme detergent to eliminate odor effectively.

Step 2: Clean the Sponge Core

Mix:

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 1 cup water

Lightly spray the foam surface without soaking it completely. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down uric acid crystals.

Step 3: Rinse and Blot

Spray clean water to rinse off the vinegar. Use towels to blot and absorb excess moisture. Do not wring or twist the foam, as it can lose shape.

Step 4: Air-Dry Thoroughly

Place the foam in a well-ventilated area with good airflow for 24–48 hours. Avoid direct sunlight, which can harden the sponge. A fan or dehumidifier helps speed up drying.

If the smell persists, repeat the process or replace the foam section if it’s severely contaminated.

5. How to Handle Faux Leather Sofas

Faux leather (PU or PVC) sofas are popular in public spaces and homes because they resist stains and moisture. However, urine can still seep into seams and leave odor behind if not cleaned immediately.

Step 1: Wipe the Surface

Clean with a soft cloth dipped in mild soap and warm water. Gently wipe the affected area, including stitching and corners.

Step 2: Neutralize the Smell

Mix:

• 1 part vinegar

• 2 parts water

Spray lightly, then wipe dry after 10 minutes. For deeper deodorizing, sprinkle baking soda on a dry towel and place it over the area overnight.

Step 3: Clean Hidden Areas

If the sofa has detachable cushions, lift them and clean underneath. Wipe any urine that may have seeped into the base or frame.

Step 4: Dry and Protect

Allow the surface to air-dry completely. Apply a PU-safe protectant to maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.

Avoid alcohol or strong chemical cleaners that may damage the synthetic coating.

6. Deep Cleaning for Cushions and Foam

Even after surface cleaning, trapped odor inside cushions can remain. This section ensures every layer is properly sanitized.

Step 1: Wash Removable Covers

Machine wash or hand wash according to fabric instructions, using enzyme detergent and cold water. Air-dry fully before reassembly.

Step 2: Treat the Foam Core

Spray vinegar-water solution evenly across the foam, blot with towels, and dry naturally.

Step 3: Replace if Needed

If odor persists after multiple cleanings, the inner foam may need replacement. Using odor-resistant sponge materials during reupholstery is a good preventive choice.

7. Sofa Maintenance and Odor Prevention

Prevention is always easier than deep cleaning. Regular sofa maintenance keeps your furniture looking and smelling new.

For Fabric Sofas

• Vacuum weekly to remove dust, crumbs, and pet dander.

• Treat spills immediately before they sink in.

• Use fabric protectors that repel moisture and stains.

For Leather Sofas

• Wipe gently every two weeks with a damp cloth.

• Apply conditioner every few months.

• Avoid placing near radiators or direct sunlight.

For Sponge Sofas

• Air out removable cushions monthly.

• Use waterproof liners for households with children or pets.

• Rotate cushions to maintain even compression.

For Faux Leather Sofas

• Clean regularly with mild soap and water.

• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive sponges.

• Use a vinyl or PU protector to extend lifespan.

8. When to Call Professionals

If a strong odor remains even after several treatments, professional cleaning may be the best option. Technicians use steam extraction, ozone, or enzyme-based systems that reach deep layers of upholstery.

Call professionals when:

• Odor returns after drying.

• There are visible stains or mold.

• The sofa has expensive materials like real leather.

• The urine damage covers a large area.

Professional service ensures deep sanitization without risking material damage.

Conclusion

Getting pee smell out of a sofa requires different cleaning methods for different materials. Fabric needs deep neutralization, leather requires gentle care, sponge demands interior cleaning, and faux leather benefits from surface protection. Acting quickly and drying completely are the two most important steps for success.

By maintaining your sofa regularly, you not only remove unpleasant odors but also extend its lifespan and preserve its beauty. Whether in homes, offices, or public spaces, a clean sofa is more than furniture—it’s part of a healthy, welcoming environment.