How to Clean a Dog Bed: 2 Easy to Follow Methods

The thought of getting into a bed with dirty or smelly sheets is repulsive. We all love the feeling of getting into a bed with crisp and clean sheets. Unfortunately, your dog’s bed may not get the same attention. You may get busy and forget about it or dismiss it because it looks fine. However, dirt and bacteria can linger in a dog bed.

So, to keep your pup protected and comfortable, here are some methods to keep your pet’s bed fresh and germ-free.

The 2 Easy Methods for Cleaning a Dog Bed

1. Machine Wash the Dog Bed

There are two types of dog beds that may be able to get washed in the washing machine. Some have removable covers, and others do not.

Dog Beds With Removable Covers

• Simply remove the cover from the foam or stuffing in the bed. If the bed stuffing needs to be cleaned also, hand wash separately in a laundry bag or pillowcase.
• Spot-treat any stains from urine, blood, or poop.
• Remove any loose hair with a brush or lint roller prior to putting it in the washer.
• Double-check the tag for any special washing instructions.
• Place the cover in the washing machine on the gentle cycle, and be sure to use a pet-safe detergent to clean the bed.
• Once the cover is cleaned, dry it according to the cleaning instructions on the bed.

Dog Beds Without a Removable Cover

• Read the cleaning label on the dog bed to determine if it is machine washable.
• Spot clean any dirty spots from things like urine and blood.
• Vacuum the bed to remove loose dirt and hair prior to washing.
• Pay attention and follow any special washing instructions.
• Place the whole bed in the washing machine on the gentle cycle (unless the instructions say otherwise).
• Be sure to use pet-safe detergent.
• Once the cycle is complete, air dry the bed or place it in the dryer. Be sure to check the washing instructions before putting the bed in the dryer.

2. Spot Clean the Dog Bed

Spot cleaning a dog bed may be required if the bed is not machine washable or it is too large to put in the washing machine. It's an ideal way to keep your dog’s bed clean and fresh without completely immersing it in water.

• Inspect the bed for any loose threads and torn or frayed fabric.
• Do a spot test to ensure the cleaning product will not harm the bed.
• Remove any loose dirt and hair with a vacuum, lint roller, or brush. Be sure to clean the corners and crevices of the bed.
• Brush any soiled or stained areas with a dry, stiff brush.
• Apply a mixture of pet-safe detergent and water to stains. Let sit for a few minutes, then blot the stain on a firm surface to help speed up the process. Repeat this process until the stains are removed.
• Allow the bed to dry thoroughly.

Things That Can Be Living in Your Dog’s Bed

Unfortunately, along with the cuteness and joy of pets comes germs and bacteria that we may not be able to see—things like viruses, parasites, and fungi.

Parasites: Mites and fleas love to feed off your pet. They latch onto your pet when they are enjoying the outdoors and can easily be brought into your home and the dog’s bed.

Hookworms and Roundworms: These parasites can enter your dog’s intestines from things like mice and infected feces. Roundworms can also pass to a puppy from its mother. These parasites can lay eggs in your dog’s bed if it is accidentally infected.

Hookworms can live in the small intestine of dogs and can pass to your dog’s bed through its fecal matter.

Ringworm: ringworm is a fungal infection that infects a dog’s hair, skin, and claws and can live up to two years in your dog’s bed.

Listeria and Salmonella: Harmful bacteria that can be carried in a dog’s intestines. Your dog may not show any signs of illness, but others in the household can be exposed to the bacteria.

Conclusion

Cleaning your pet’s bed can be done in the washing machine or by spot cleaning. Either way, frequently cleaning your dog’s bed is an important routine to keep your dog safe and healthy. It can also help prevent germs and bacteria from being spread throughout your home and making you or your dog sick.

Featured Image Credit: Rabizo Anatolii, Shutterstock