How to Clean Your Dog’s Bed: Complete Care Guide for Pet Owners
Pup-approved linens fend off odors, allergens, and parasites while enhancing home comfort.
How to Clean Your Dogâs Bed and Why Itâs Essential
A clean dog bed is crucial for your petâs health, comfort, and overall well-being. Unwashed beds can harbor odors, harmful bacteria, fleas, and allergens that affect both canine and human family members. Regular cleaning not only enhances your dogâs comfort, it also helps prolong the life of the bed and keeps your living environment fresh.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
- Prevents skin irritations, infections, and allergens that can arise from accumulated dander, saliva, and bacteria.
- Reduces parasites such as fleas and mites, which can nest in fabrics and filling.
- Controls odors so your home stays pleasant and welcoming.
- Preserves bedding quality, extending the lifespan and maintaining comfort for your pet.
How to Wash Your Dogâs Bed
Cleaning methods depend on the bedâs material, size, the manufacturerâs instructions, and how soiled it is. Follow these core steps to keep any dog bed fresh and hygienic.
Step 1: Remove Excess Hair
- Use a pet hair vacuum or pet hair remover tool for thorough cleaning.
- Employ a lint roller, masking tape, or wear rubber/latex gloves and wipe the bed to lift stubborn hairs.
- Pay special attention to crevices, seams, and sides where hair collects.
Step 2: Pre-treat Stains and Odors
- Spot clean tough stains (such as urine or feces) with a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner.
- Allow the solution to dwell and blot or gently scrub for best results.
- Repeat treatments on persistent areas, always using cleaners safe for pets.
Step 3: Machine Wash (If Allowed)
- Check the label and manufacturerâs instructions before washing.
- Most soft beds and dog blankets can go in the machine, provided they fit.
- Use a hot water setting for deep cleaningâhigh temperatures kill germs and parasites.
- Fragrance-free, pet-friendly detergent prevents irritation or allergic reactions.
- To prevent clogging, use a dog bed laundry bag to contain excess hair.
- After the cycle, clean the filter and wipe machine seals to remove leftover debris.
- For stubborn odors, run a post-wash empty cycle: add 1â2 cups white vinegar and 1/2 cup baking soda to the dispenser.
Step 4: Hand Wash or Soak (For Non-Machine Beds)
- Place plastic or foam beds in a large basin, bathtub, or kidsâ pool.
- Fill with warm water, pet-safe detergent, and 1 cup of vinegar for deodorizing and disinfecting.
- Squeeze and knead soft parts; use a sponge and scrub plastic surfaces thoroughly.
- Rinse several times to remove all suds and soap residues.
- Thoroughly disinfect the wash area after use.
- Avoid using kitchen sinks for pet items to prevent cross-contamination.
Step 5: Special Case â Memory Foam & Specialty Beds
- Follow manufacturer instructions closely if provided.
- Hand wash with a diluted solution of non-toxic detergent. Avoid soaking; instead, spray lightly and blot residue.
- Sprinkle baking soda to deodorize and leave overnight, then vacuum.
- Repeat on both sides as needed.
What others are reading
Step 6: Cleaning Hard Beds
- Wipe down with a damp, soapy cloth.
- Scrub persistently at tough stains, using pet-safe products.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup.
Step 7: Dry the Bed
- Air dry flat in a sunny spot or hang indoors; avoid direct heat if manufacturer advises against it.
- Ensure thick, fiber-filled beds are fully dryâdampness leads to mold or mildew.
- Take extra care with memory foam and large beds, which may take longer.
- Some beds can tolerate a dryerâs high heat cycle to sanitize, but check the label first.
Step 8: Reassemble and Inspect
- Ensure filling is evenly distributed and that covers close securely.
- Inspect for damaged seams, tears, or loose fastenings and repair if needed.
- Place the bed back in your dogâs favorite spot once completely dry.
How Often Should You Clean a Dog Bed?
For optimal hygiene, clean your dogâs bed every 1â2 weeks. More frequent washing may be necessary for dogs with allergies, skin conditions, or if the bed becomes visibly soiled. Beds in busy, multi-pet households may also require frequent attention.
- Bedding: Weekly to biweekly cleaning, or immediately if soiled.
- Stuffed beds: As needed; every few weeks for deep cleaning, spot treat between washes.
- Hard beds and crates: Monthly or during major spring cleaning sessions.
What If the Bed Is Infested With Fleas?
Flea infestations require urgent, thorough handling. First, wash the bed in hot water (at least 140°F/60°C) to kill fleas and larvae. Note that flea cocoons can survive standard cleaning cycles, so itâs vital to:
- Treat all pets in the home with veterinary-approved flea treatments.
- Vacuum the bed and surrounding areas before and after washing.
- Double wash the bed to best eliminate larvae and adults.
- Consider replacing heavily infested beds if cleaning proves ineffective.
Always combine bed cleaning with a comprehensive household flea control plan.
Extra Tips for Bed Maintenance
- Use a removable cover: Beds with zipped, washable covers are easiest to clean regularly.
- Rotate beds: Keeping a backup means your dog always has a place to rest cleaning cycles.
- Protect beds: Use dog-safe, water-resistant sheets for puppies or senior dogs prone to accidents.
- Regular inspection: Check for damage, clumping, or wear before every wash.
- Keep the area clean: Vacuum around the bed and wash adjacent toys or blankets during each cleaning.
Which Cleaning Method for Which Type of Dog Bed?
| Bed Type | Recommended Method | Drying Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Soft/Fabric Bed | Machine wash (if allowed), vacuum, spot clean stains | Air dry flat; avoid dryer for thick fillings |
| Memory Foam Bed | Hand wash foam, machine wash covers | Air dry foam thoroughly; hanging covers is fine |
| Plastic/Hard Bed | Wipe down with soapy cloth, rinse, disinfect | Towel dry or air dry completely |
| Beds with Removable Covers | Remove and wash covers in machine, hand wash insert if needed | Hang or air dry covers; follow insert’s care label |
| Infested Bed | Hot water wash, double clean, vacuum, treat pets for fleas | Replace if infestation persists |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I wash any dog bed in the washing machine?
Not all. Always check the care label and read manufacturer instructions first. Most removable covers and soft beds are machine washable, but some foam inserts and specialty beds may require hand washing or delicate care.
How do I get rid of dog bed odors?
Use a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda in the wash cycle. Air drying in sunlight also helps break down odors naturally. For persistent smells, repeat washing or sprinkle baking soda before vacuuming.
Should I use scented detergents?
No. Choose fragrance-free, pet-safe detergents to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions for your dog.
Whatâs the best way to clean stuffing or inserts?
Solid foam inserts should be hand washed and air dried thoroughly. Polyester or fiberfill may be machine washable but check care instructions to prevent clumping and damage.
Can I use bleach or strong disinfectants?
Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach unless instructions specifically allow itâthese can be toxic or cause irritation. Use pet-safe sanitizers or natural products like vinegar for disinfection.
How do I clean the area around the bed?
Vacuum surrounding rugs, floors, or carpets weekly; wash any nearby blankets, toys, or furniture covers during each cleaning session to minimize allergens and pests.
General Dog Bed Upkeep & Spring Cleaning Tips
- Beds, blankets, and furniture covers: Wash several times each year or more often if your dog is prone to shedding or messes.
- Dog toys: Launder soft toys frequently and inspect for tears. Some hard toys can be placed in the dishwasher or hand washed.
- Crates and carriers: Clean and disinfect as part of regular spring cleaning routines.
Quick Reference Table: Cleaning Frequency Guidelines
| Item | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Dog Bed | Every 1â2 weeks, immediately if soiled |
| Blankets/Covers | Weekly or as needed |
| Toys (soft) | Every 1â2 months |
| Toys (hard) | Quarterly or as needed |
| Crates/Hard Beds | Monthly or during major cleaning |
Creating a Healthier Home for Pets and People
Maintaining clean sleeping areas for your dog protects every member of the household. Fresh, hygienic bedding minimizes the spread of germs, reduces odors, and supports good skin and coat condition for your pet. By cleaning regularly, you ensure your dog’s bed remains a safe and welcoming retreat.
- Choose beds with easily washable components for convenience.
- Replace damaged or extremely dirty beds as necessary for pet safety.
- Coordinate bed cleaning with groomingâbrush your dog before putting them back on a clean bed to keep it fresh longer.
Final Advice: Make Cleaning Your Dogâs Bed a Habit
Whether your dogâs bed is simple or elaborate, regular cleaning enhances comfort and health. Use pet-safe products, follow manufacturer instructions, and clean both the bed and surrounding area. When in doubt, err on the side of caution with gentle, thorough cleaning techniques. A well-kept dog bed shows you care for your petâs happinessâand the cleanliness of your home.
References
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/how-to-clean-a-dog-bed/
- https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/how-to-clean-a-dog-bed
- https://www.akcreunite.org/spring-cleaning/
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/cleaning/
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/spring-cleaning-guide-pet-owners/
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/diy-dog-safe-cleaning-solutions/
- https://www.chewy.com/american-kennel-club-akc-casablanca/dp/133975
- https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/blog/dog-days-of-summer-cleaning
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/heated-beds-safe-dog/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
