How to Clean a Dog Bed and Keep It Fresh Between Washes

Why Dog Beds Need Regular Cleaning

Dogs bring dirt, hair, saliva, and outdoor debris into their beds. Even clean dogs accumulate skin cells, oils, and bacteria in bedding over time. A dog bed that isn't cleaned regularly develops smells, harbours allergens, and can cause skin irritation.

The washing frequency depends on the dog: puppies in training and senior dogs need more frequent washing; adult dogs with healthy skin can be washed less often.

Weekly Maintenance Routine

Vacuum the Bed

Vacuum the cover (with the cover on the bed) at least once a week. This removes loose hair, skin cells, and debris before it works into the fabric. Use the upholstery attachment on a vacuum cleaner.

Brush the Dog First

Brushing the dog before vacuuming the bed reduces the amount of hair that ends up in the bed in the first place. A five-minute brush each week keeps the bed cleaner between washes.

Air the Bed

Once a week, remove the cover and let the inner breathe. Lay the inner in sunlight if possible — natural UV light kills bacteria and reduces smells. Even 30 minutes in sunlight makes a difference.

How to Wash a Dog Bed Cover

Step 1: Remove the Cover

Strip the cover from the inner. Check the manufacturer's instructions for washing temperature.

Step 2: Pre-Treat Stains

Spot-treat any stains with enzyme-based pet stain remover before washing. Enzyme cleaners break down the proteins in urine and faeces that standard detergent misses.

Step 3: Wash at 40°C Minimum

Wash at 40°C or higher to kill dust mites and bacteria. For beds used by puppies or senior dogs with incontinence, wash at 60°C. Use a pet-safe laundry detergent — avoid detergents with strong fragrances that can irritate dog skin.

Step 4: Add Vinegar

Add 250ml of white vinegar to the fabric softener compartment. Vinegar removes smells naturally without harsh chemicals. It also helps soften the fabric and removes soap residue.

Step 5: Dry Thoroughly

Tumble dry on low heat if the cover allows, or air dry completely. A damp cover left in a pile develops mould. Ensure the cover is fully dry before putting it back on the inner.

Deep Cleaning the Inner

When to Deep Clean

Deep clean the inner (foam or fibre filling) at least monthly. More frequently for puppies in training or senior dogs.

Vacuum the Inner

Vacuum the inner with the upholstery attachment. This removes hair and debris from the surface.

Spot Clean the Inner

For localised stains on the inner: spot clean with enzyme cleaner, blot with a damp cloth, and air dry completely.

Deodorise with Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda over the inner, leave for 30 minutes, vacuum thoroughly. Baking soda absorbs smells without chemicals.

Sun the Inner

Lay the inner in direct sunlight for several hours. UV light kills bacteria and naturally deodorises. This is the most effective and chemical-free way to freshen a foam inner.

Between-Wash Freshness Tips

Baking Soda

Sprinkle baking soda over the cover between washes. Leave for 15 minutes, vacuum off. This absorbs smells and keeps the bed fresher between washes.

Enzyme Spray

Keep an enzyme pet spray handy for accidents. Spray immediately, blot, and air dry. Immediate treatment prevents stains and smells from setting.

Rotate Covers

If you have two covers, rotate them so one is always in the wash while the other is in use. This makes weekly washing practical — you never have a bed without its cover.

Waterproof Liners

Use a waterproof liner between the cover and inner. This protects the inner from moisture, accidents, and extends the time between deep cleans. A wipeable waterproof liner can be cleaned quickly without removing the cover.

FAQs

Can I wash a dog bed in the washing machine?

Yes — most removable covers are machine washable. Check the manufacturer's instructions for temperature and detergent recommendations. Large dog bed covers may need a commercial-size machine.

How often should I wash my dog's bed?

Weekly for covers (or more for puppies and senior dogs). Monthly for the inner. If the dog has skin issues or allergies, wash more frequently.

What detergent should I use?

Pet-safe, fragrance-free laundry detergent. Avoid biological detergents with strong enzymes that can irritate dog skin. White vinegar as a fabric softener is effective and chemical-free.

My dog bed smells even after washing — what do I do?

Wash at a higher temperature (60°C). Add vinegar to the wash. Check the inner — if the inner has absorbed smells, it may need deep cleaning or replacing. A waterproof liner between cover and inner prevents the inner from absorbing smells in future.

Can I tumble dry a dog bed cover?

Check the manufacturer's instructions. Many covers can be tumble dried on low heat. Air drying in sunlight is preferable — the UV light provides additional deodorising.