The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Your Dog’s Bed

A clean and fresh bed is essential for your dog’s health and well-being. Not only does regularly cleaning your dog’s bed help to eliminate odors, it also prevents pests and allergens. 

Does your dog have a dedicated bed? If not, we’ve created a guide to help you choose the perfect dog bed, which you can read by clicking here!

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect dog bed for your beloved pooch, here’s a nine step guide on how to properly clean your dog’s bed.

How Often Should I Clean My Dog’s Bed

Based on a quick Google search, the general consensus is that you should be cleaning your dog’s bed roughly once a week. However, you should increase the frequency of cleaning if your dog:

• Participated in activities that made them dirty (i.e. rolling around the mud)
• Is not hypoallergenic and you or your family members are affected by allergy symptoms
• Shed their hair frequently. 

At the end of the day, common sense is your friend. If your dog’s bed looks dirty or smells, then it’s probably time to clean it. 

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Equipment That You Need To Clean Your Dog’s Bed

• Vacuum Cleaner: Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt, hair, and debris from the bed.
• Spot Cleaner: For treating stubborn stains or soiled areas.
• Laundry Detergent: Choose a mild, pet-safe detergent.
• Washing Machine: Check the care label on the bed to ensure it’s machine washable.
• Dryer or Sunlight: To dry the bed thoroughly.
• Brush: For fluffing up the bed’s filling material after cleaning.

 

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Steps To Cleaning Your Dog’s Bed

1. Remove Loose Debris

Before washing, take the bed outside and shake it to remove loose dirt, hair, and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to thoroughly remove any remaining particles.

2. Check for Stains

Inspect the bed for stains or soiled areas. If you spot stains, treat them with a pet-safe spot cleaner or a mixture of water and mild detergent. Gently blot the stains; avoid rubbing, as it can push the stain deeper into the fabric.

3. Check the Care Label

Read the care label on the bed to ensure it’s machine washable. If it’s not, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.

4. Disassemble the Bed

If the bed has removable covers or inserts, take them apart. This allows you to clean it more thoroughly.

5. Wash the Bed Covers

Place the covers in the washing machine. Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water. Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents as they can irritate your dog’s skin and damage the fabric.

6. Add Vinegar

For a natural odor eliminator and fabric softener, add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle. It helps break down odors and can be especially useful if your dog’s bed is particularly smelly.

7. Dry the Covers

After washing, tumble dry the covers on low heat or line dry them in direct sunlight. Sunlight has natural antibacterial properties and helps eliminate odors.

8. Clean the Bed’s Filling

If the bed has a removable insert or filling, check if it’s machine washable. If it is, follow the same washing and drying instructions as the covers. But if it’s not machine washable, spot clean any stains or soiled areas and allow it to air dry.

9. Fluff and Assemble

Once all parts are clean and dry, fluff the filling to restore its shape and assemble the bed! And that’s it, you’re all done! 

By following these steps, you can ensure your dog has a clean and comfortable bed to enjoy. To keep your dog’s bed fresh between washes, vacuum it regularly, and spot clean any stains promptly.