How to Wash Your Dog’s Bed the Easy Way
Sometimes your dog’s bed can go from a little smelly to really unpleasant. Just like people, dogs need a clean place to rest. Their beds collect fur, dirt, drool, odors, and even tiny pests over time. That’s why it’s a good idea to deep-clean your dog’s bed about once a month, especially when the weather allows you to dry it outside in the sun.
Whether your dog has a big bed or a small one, these easy steps will help you clean it properly and keep your home fresh.
What You’ll Need
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A clean bathtub
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A handheld pet vacuum or regular vacuum with attachments
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A lint roller
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Gentle, pet-safe laundry detergent
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Access to sunlight for drying
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
1. Vacuum First
Start by vacuuming the outside of the dog bed. This removes loose hair, dirt, and crumbs. Then use a lint roller to pick up stubborn fur that the vacuum missed.
2. Remove and Shake the Cover
Take the cover off the foam cushion. Bring it outside and shake it well to remove hidden dust and dirt trapped inside.
3. Soak in Hot Water
Fill your bathtub with hot water and place the cover inside. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes. This helps loosen grime and can also kill flea eggs if any are present.
4. Wring It Out
Take the cover out and squeeze out as much water as possible.
5. Wash in Machine
Put the cover in your washing machine with gentle detergent. Use a heavy-duty cycle with cold water.
⚠️ Avoid using the dryer because heat can shrink the fabric.
6. Clean the Tub Again
Drain the tub, wipe it clean, and refill it with fresh hot water. Add a small amount of detergent.
7. Clean the Foam Inside
Vacuum the foam cushion just like you did the cover. Use the lint roller again to remove leftover fur.
8. Wash the Foam
Place the foam in the tub and gently press it so soapy water goes inside. Massage it softly with your hands to remove dirt.
9. Rinse Thoroughly
Drain and refill the tub with clean water. Rinse the foam by squeezing it until no soap comes out. You may need to rinse several times until the water runs clear.
10. Dry in the Sun
Place both the cover and foam outside in sunlight to dry. Lay them on a clean hard surface like a patio or driveway, not grass. Turn them a few times so they dry evenly.
11. Put It Back
Before putting the bed back, vacuum the floor where it usually sits. Then reassemble the bed once everything is fully dry.
Helpful Tip
Between washes, spray the bed lightly with a pet-safe odor remover to keep it smelling fresh.
Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Bed Matters
You wouldn’t want to sleep in a dirty, smelly bed—so your dog shouldn’t either. A clean bed keeps your pet healthier, reduces odors in your home, and helps your furry friend sleep comfortably.
When your dog curls up happily on a fresh bed and gives you that adorable grin, that’s their way of saying thank you. 🐾