By Ethan BrooksA clean dog bed is more than just a nice touch for your home; it is a key part of your pet’s health and comfort. Dog beds collect dirt, dander, hair, and odors over time, making regular washing essential. This guide walks you through the entire process, from checking the care label to ensuring the bed is completely dry, so you can keep your dog’s sleeping spot fresh and inviting.
Before You Start: What You Will Need
Gather your supplies before diving in. Having everything ready makes the process smoother.
- A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment
- A lint roller or rubber grooming brush for stubborn hair
- A pet-safe laundry detergent (free of heavy fragrances and harsh chemicals)
- Baking soda and white vinegar (for spot cleaning and odor removal)
- A washing machine large enough to handle the bed components
- A dryer or a well-ventilated space for air drying
How Often Should You Wash a Dog Bed?
The frequency depends on your dog and your household. A good rule of thumb is to wash the cover every one to two weeks and give the entire bed a deep clean, including the insert, about once a month. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, has allergies, or sheds heavily, you may need to wash it more often. Always defer to the manufacturer’s instructions on your specific bed, as some materials require gentler care. In hot weather, a clean bed is even more important for your dog’s comfort.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing a Dog Bed
Step 1: Check the Care Label
The care label is your best friend. It tells you exactly what the bed is made of and how to clean it. Look for symbols that indicate whether the cover is removable, if the insert can be machine washed, and what water temperature to use. Some beds have waterproof liners that require special care. If the label says “dry clean only,” follow that advice to avoid damaging the bed. Bolster and donut beds often have unique shapes that require special attention to the care label.
Step 2: Remove Loose Hair and Debris
Before getting the bed wet, remove as much loose material as possible. Take the bed outside and give it a good shake. Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush to suck up hair, dander, and crumbs from both the cover and the insert. A lint roller or a damp rubber glove can pick up the last bits of stubborn fur. This step prevents hair from clogging your washing machine and helps the detergent work more effectively.
Step 3: Spot Clean Stains
Treat any visible stains before washing. Mix a small amount of pet-safe detergent with water, or make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub the stained area with a soft brush or cloth. For tough organic stains, a spray of white vinegar can help break them down. Let the spot treatment sit for about 15 minutes before moving on.
Step 4: Wash the Cover (If Removable)
Unzip and remove the cover. Turn it inside out to help release trapped hair and protect the fabric during the wash. Wash the cover in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. Use a small amount of pet-safe detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as these can break down fibers and irritate your dog’s skin. Running an extra rinse cycle helps ensure all soap residue is removed.
Step 5: Wash the Insert (If Machine Washable)
Not all inserts are meant for the washing machine. If the care label says it is safe, place the insert in the machine. For large inserts, a front-loading machine is often gentler. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a minimal amount of detergent. You can add a few clean tennis balls to the dryer later to help fluff the filling, but avoid high spin speeds in the washer, which can damage the internal batting.
Step 6: Handle Non-Machine-Washable Inserts (Foam)
Foam and memory foam inserts should almost never go in a washing machine. The agitation can break the foam apart, and the water is nearly impossible to fully rinse out, leading to mold and mildew. Instead, clean foam inserts by sprinkling baking soda over the surface, letting it sit for several hours, and then vacuuming it off. Spot clean any soiled areas with a damp cloth and mild soap. Airing the foam insert in a sunny, well-ventilated spot helps freshen it.
Step 7: Dry Thoroughly
Drying is the most critical step for preventing mildew. If the cover is dryer-safe, tumble it on low heat. Remove it promptly to prevent wrinkles. For machine-washable inserts, dry on a low or no-heat setting. This can take multiple cycles. The filling must be completely dry before you put the cover back on. For foam inserts, allow several hours or even a full day of air drying in a well-ventilated area or in the sun. Never put a damp insert back into a cover, as the enclosed space is a perfect breeding ground for mold.
Choosing a Pet-Safe Detergent
Your dog’s nose is much more sensitive than yours. Strong fragrances and harsh chemicals in standard laundry detergents can irritate your pet’s skin and respiratory system. Look for detergents specifically formulated for pets, or choose a free-and-clear variety that is fragrance-free and dye-free. Enzyme-based detergents are excellent for breaking down organic stains and odors. Always use the recommended amount; more detergent does not mean a cleaner bed, and leftover residue can attract dirt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much detergent: This leaves a sticky residue that traps dirt and can cause skin irritation. Always measure and consider an extra rinse cycle.
- Washing a foam insert in the machine: This can destroy the foam and void the warranty. Stick to spot cleaning and airing out.
- Putting a wet insert back into the cover: This traps moisture and almost guarantees mildew growth. Ensure every layer is bone dry.
- Using fabric softener or bleach: Fabric softener can ruin waterproof liners and reduce the bed’s ability to repel moisture. Bleach can discolor fabrics and leave harmful residues.
If your dog has a habit of chewing their bed, it is especially important to keep the bed clean and inspect it for damage during washing. See our guide on how to stop a dog chewing its crate bed for more tips.
Troubleshooting
The bed still smells after washing.
Odors can linger if the bed was not dried quickly enough or if detergent residue remains. Try washing the cover again with a cup of white vinegar in the rinse cycle (no detergent). For the insert, sprinkle baking soda, let it sit overnight, and vacuum thoroughly. Sunlight is a powerful natural deodorizer.
The filling is lumpy.
Lumpy filling usually means the batting shifted during washing or was not dried properly. If the insert is machine washable, try putting it in the dryer with a couple of clean tennis balls on a low or no-heat setting. The balls will help break up clumps and redistribute the filling. For non-washable inserts, you may need to manually fluff and reshape the foam.
The cover shrunk.
Shrinking typically happens when the cover is washed in hot water or dried on high heat. Check the care label for future washes. If the cover no longer fits, you might be able to gently stretch it back into shape while it is still slightly damp, or it may be time to replace it. For more on finding a bed that fits your needs, see our guide on dog beds and comfort.
FAQ
Can I wash a dog bed in a top-loader vs. a front-loader?
Both types of machines can work, but front-loaders are generally gentler on large, bulky items like bed inserts. Top-loaders with an agitator can be rough on the filling. If using a top-loader, try to balance the load and use a gentle cycle. Always check the capacity of your machine against the size of the bed.
What is the best way to remove dog hair from a bed before washing?
A combination of methods works best. Start by shaking the bed outside. Follow up with a vacuum using an upholstery tool. A rubber grooming brush or a damp squeegee can pull hair from the fabric fibers. Lint rollers are great for final touch-ups. Removing hair beforehand is the single most effective way to keep your washing machine clean.
How do I dry a foam dog bed insert?
Foam inserts must be air-dried. Never put them in a dryer or direct heat. Squeeze out as much water as possible after spot cleaning. Place the foam in a sunny, well-ventilated area. Prop it up on its side to allow air to circulate on all surfaces. Depending on the thickness, this can take a full day or longer. Ensure the center of the foam feels completely dry to the touch before using the bed again.
Can I use bleach to clean a dog bed?
Standard chlorine bleach is not recommended for dog beds. It can leave behind harmful chemical residues that your dog might ingest or absorb through their skin. It can also damage many fabrics and discolor the bed. If you need to whiten or disinfect, consider using oxygen bleach (hydrogen peroxide-based) or a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner, and always rinse thoroughly.
Establishing a regular washing routine for your dog’s bed is a simple way to support their health and extend the life of the bed itself. By checking the care label, using the right products, and ensuring everything is thoroughly dried, you can keep your pet’s favorite spot clean and comfortable. If you are looking for a bed that is easier to maintain, you might want to explore our selection of washable dog beds.
About Ethan Brooks
Ethan Brooks is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our everyday pet gear guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
