Caring for a dog requires significant time and dedication, including daily training, walks, love, and affection.
However, one aspect that’s often overlooked—but incredibly simple—is washing your dog’s bed. Dogs spend a lot of time on their beds, bringing in dirt, dust, and odors from your home, yard, and walks.
This makes their bed a hotspot for germs and bacteria. Regularly cleaning the dog bed can enhance your dog’s quality of life and keep them smelling fresh between baths.
But do you know the best way to clean your dog’s bed?
The Needs for Cleaning Your Dog’s Bed Cover
Your dog’s favorite spot to sleep, their dog bed, is most likely where the germs they track in end up.
Cleaning your dog’s bed cover is just as important as regularly vacuuming your house or giving your dog a wash.so the cloud of germs coming from your dog’s bed can be stopped with a routine wash.
What Is the Best Way to Wash a Dog Bed?
Cleaning your dog’s bed is straightforward with the right approach. Follow these steps to ensure your pet’s bed stays fresh and hygienic:
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Indoor Dog Bed Covers
Remove the Cover: Unzip the cover and take out the foam and bolster.
Shake It Out: Shake the bed cover outdoors to get rid of large dirt particles and hair. Make sure you’re downwind to avoid the debris blowing back on you.
Zip It Up: Re-zip the cover before washing to help it maintain its shape.
Machine Wash: Place the cover in the washing machine with cold water and unscented detergent. Avoid using bleach.
Dry Properly: Air dry the cover or tumble dry on low heat to prevent damage.
Reassemble: Once dry, unzip the cover and replace the foam and bolster.
Voilà! Your dog’s bed is now clean and ready for use.
Bonus Tip: Extend the Life of the Foam
To protect the foam for longer, consider adding a water-resistant liner. These liners can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and diluted detergent. However, never put the water-resistant liner in the washing machine.
Recommendations for Routine Care
Shake out the bed cover outdoors every two to three weeks to remove large particles and dog hair before washing.
Wash the cover in cold water using your washing machine and unscented detergent.
Line drying is preferred to extend the life of the fabric, although tumble drying on low heat is acceptable if necessary.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Your Dog’s Bed
Fluffing the Bolster: If the bolster looks deflated, remove it from the cover and gently massage it to restore its shape.
Avoid placing the bolster in the dryer, as this can damage it. For added support, use the zipper to add more fiber fill.
Odor Control: Add baking soda to the wash to help eliminate persistent odors.
Fabric Care: Always zip the cover before washing to preserve its structure. There’s no need to turn it inside out.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your dog’s bed clean, fresh, and comfortable, ensuring a healthier environment for your furry friend.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for Outdoor Dog Bed Covers
Inspect and Unzip: Remove the foam from the cover and inspect it for any issues.
Shake It Out: Shake the cover outdoors to remove dirt, hair, and debris.
Zip It Up: Re-zip the cover to prepare it for cleaning.
Prepare Cleaning Supplies: Grab a towel and a bucket filled with diluted detergent.
Wipe Down the Cover: Dampen the towel with the cleaning solution and wipe the cover thoroughly.
Air Dry: Allow the bed cover to air dry completely before reassembling.
Voilà! Your pet bed is now clean.
Bonus Tip: Prolong the Foam’s Lifespan
Consider using a water-resistant liner for the foam. These liners can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and diluted detergent. Avoid placing water-resistant liners in the washing machine.
Important Notes for Outdoor Dog Beds
Never machine wash or tumble dry outdoor dog bed covers, as this can damage the waterproof coating on the canvas fabric.
Use only diluted detergent to wipe down the covers.
Spot-Treatment for Foam
If the foam requires cleaning, follow these steps:
- Use a dilute detergent solution with a damp cloth to spot-treat dirty areas.
- Avoid soaking the foam, using bleach, or saturating it.
- Ensure the foam is completely air-dried before use. Orthopedic foam takes the longest to dry, while egg-crate and full-support foam dry faster.
- For bathroom accidents, apply a urine neutralizer and spot-treat with a damp cloth.
How to Clean Water-Resistant Pet Cots
Simply spray the cot with a garden hose or wipe it down with a cloth and diluted soap to remove dirt or debris.
Avoid machine washing or tumble drying the mesh; air drying is the best option.
Detergent Recommendations for Dog Beds
Always use unscented detergent to clean your pet’s belongings, as some essential oils can be harmful to dogs.
Avoid scented dryer sheets, scent beads, or essential oils on wool dryer balls.
Use a high-quality laundry soap compatible with your washing machine. There’s no need for specialized dog bed soaps or fancy cleaning solutions.
At Pets365, our mission is to provide budget-friendly advice for pet parents while ensuring the best care for your furry friends.