A clean dog bed isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s essential for your dog’s health. Dog beds accumulate dirt, dead skin cells, oils, pet dander, bacteria and fleas over time. Regular washing prevents skin irritation, reduces odours and keeps pests at bay. Here’s how to clean your dog’s bed properly.
How Often Should You Wash a Dog Bed?
As a general rule, wash your dog’s bed every 1–2 weeks. Wash more frequently if your dog has skin conditions, allergies, rolls in things outdoors, or sheds heavily. Spot-clean between washes for accidents or muddy paw prints.
What You’ll Need
- Pet-safe laundry detergent (unscented or enzyme-based)
- A washing machine (front or top loader)
- A vacuum cleaner with upholstery attachment
- White vinegar or baking soda (for odour neutralising)
- A lint roller (for pre-treatment)
Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Dog Bed
- Remove loose fur and debris: Shake the bed outdoors, then vacuum thoroughly with an upholstery attachment. Use a lint roller for stubborn fur.
- Pre-treat stains: Apply an enzyme-based stain remover to any soiled areas. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before washing.
- Check the care label: Most quality dog beds have removable, machine-washable covers. Check the label for temperature and cycle recommendations.
- Wash on warm or hot: Use a warm wash cycle (40–60°C) with pet-safe detergent. Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to neutralise odours and soften fabric naturally.
- Dry thoroughly: Tumble dry on low or air dry in the sun. Ensure the bed is completely dry before returning it to your dog — damp beds can harbour mould and mildew.
Can’t Remove the Cover? Washing a Non-Removable Dog Bed
If your dog’s bed doesn’t have a removable cover, check if the whole bed fits in your washing machine. Many donut beds and bolster beds can be machine washed whole on a gentle cycle. For oversized beds, use a laundromat with large-capacity machines, or hand wash in a bathtub with pet-safe detergent, rinse thoroughly and air dry in the sun.
Tips for Keeping a Dog Bed Cleaner for Longer
- Place a waterproof liner under the cover if your dog is prone to accidents
- Use a washable blanket on top of the bed as an easily-laundered top layer
- Keep nails trimmed to prevent the bed cover tearing
- Treat for fleas regularly — a single flea can lay 50 eggs per day in bedding
Frequently Asked Questions — Washing Dog Beds
Can I wash my dog’s bed in a regular washing machine?
Yes — most dog beds or bed covers are machine washable. Use a pet-safe, unscented detergent and run a rinse cycle afterwards to ensure no detergent residue remains. Clean the machine drum after washing to remove pet fur.
What detergent is safe to wash dog beds with?
Use an unscented, enzyme-based pet laundry detergent or a fragrance-free biological detergent. Avoid fabric softeners and strongly scented products, which can irritate dogs’ sensitive noses and skin.
How do I get dog smell out of a dog bed?
Add half a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle and another half cup to the rinse cycle. Baking soda can be sprinkled on the bed and vacuumed off between washes as an odour absorber. Sunlight is also a natural deodoriser and disinfectant — air dry outside when possible.
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