How to Wash a Dog Bed For A Healthier and More Comfortable Resting Spot

Dogs bring joy, energy and unconditional affection into our homes. Since they give us so much happiness, it only feels right to offer them a comfortable place to rest, unwind and feel secure.

A dog bed provides warmth, comfort and a dedicated sleeping spot that supports healthy routines and boundaries throughout the home. Over time, however, beds can collect dirt, hair and odours. Dogs also track in mud and debris from outdoors, which can leave their bed looking and smelling less than fresh.

Unclean dog beds may become smelly, harbor dirt or bacteria and develop stubborn stains, lingering odours or loose hair that is difficult to remove. Regular cleaning helps keep your dog’s resting space hygienic, comfortable and welcoming.

If you are wondering how to clean a dog bed, look no further. Lysol^® Canada makes the process simple. Keep reading to learn how to wash a dog bed properly and give your pet a safe and comfortable place to sleep.

Best Way to Wash Dog Bed: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Remove and Vacuum the Cover

Before washing your dog bed, remove the cover if it has one. Vacuum the cover to lift loose hair and dirt, which helps prevent machine clogging and supports a more effective wash. Check for visible stains and pretreat them if needed.

Step 2: Read the Care Label

Check the care label on both the cover and the bed itself. Some covers are machine washable, while others may require hand washing. The label will indicate the recommended washing temperature, whether the bed or cover can go in the dryer, and any important instructions that help maintain the bed’s shape and fabric quality.

Step 3: Spot Clean Stains and Damage

Before washing, inspect the bed and cover for stains, spills or worn spots. Spot-clean with a gentle detergent or a pet-safe cleaner.

Lift the filling away from the stained area, apply the cleaner, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then blot or brush until the stain lifts. Check for loose stitching or small tears and repair them before washing to help prevent additional damage during the cycle.

Step 4: Turn the Cover Inside Out

If the bed has a removable cover, turn it inside out before washing. This helps remove dirt and hair trapped in seams and protects the outer fabric from friction, helping the bed look newer for longer.

Step 5: Choose Washing Settings, Temperature, and Detergent

When washing your dog bed cover, select settings that clean gently but thoroughly. Follow the care label, as many dog bed covers wash best on delicate, bedding or bulky cycles.

Adding an extra rinse can help remove hair, dirt and detergent residue. Cold or warm water is often recommended because hot water can cause shrinking, fading or fabric damage, especially for beds with protective coatings or soft upholstery materials.

Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent designed for sensitive skin or delicate fabrics. For added hygiene benefits, include Lysol^® Laundry Disinfectant - Crisp Linen in your wash cycle.

It contains no bleach and works even in cold water to kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria that detergents may leave behind^*, helping keep fabrics hygienically clean.

Step 6: Air-dry or Tumble Dry on Low Heat

After washing, air-dry the cover and put it back on whenever possible to help maintain its shape. Lay it flat on a clean surface or over a drying rack for even drying. If the care label permits, you can tumble dry on low heat. Avoid hanging the bed from one side, as the weight of water can distort the fabric and filling.

Step 7: Reassemble the Bed

Once everything is completely dry, reinsert the insert into the cover. If your bed has a bolster, insert it last to restore the bed's original shape. Make sure the cover is fully zipped or secured.

^*vs detergent alone; Always read and follow the label.

FAQs

How often should you wash your dog’s bed?

Wash dog bed covers every 1-2 weeks, or weekly for particularly messy dogs, to remove dirt, hair, and bacteria. Deep-clean the inner mattress every 1-3 months, or more often if there are accidents or skin issues.

Can washing a dog bed too often damage the fabric or filling?

Yes, frequent washing can wear down both the fabric and the filling. Excessive cleaning may reduce the bed’s durability and its ability to stay clean and comfortable.

Can washing a dog bed help reduce shedding and allergies?

Regular washing helps remove accumulated hair, dander, pollen, and dust mites, which can reduce shedding around the home and help alleviate allergy symptoms.

What should you avoid using when washing a dog bed?

Avoid fabric softeners, dryer sheets, bleach, harsh chemicals, heavily fragranced detergents, and high heat. These can irritate your dog’s skin, leave residue, trap dirt, or cause shrinkage or damage to the bed.