Cleaning a dog bed helps manage odors, remove dirt, and keep pets healthy. This guide walks American households through a safe, effective wash using common machine settings and readily available supplies.
Quick Answer
Yes — many dog beds are machine washable when you follow fabric care labels and use the right accessories. Use a gentle cycle with warm water, a pet-safe detergent, and a proper washing bag for small parts. Air dry or use a dryer rack to prevent warping or shrinking.
What You’ll Need
- machine washable dog bed cover microfiber removable cover size large
- dog bed washing bag mesh laundry bag for machine wash
- pet-safe unscented laundry detergent for dog beds
- enzyme pet stain remover for dog beds
- pet bed dryer rack for quick air drying after washing
Before You Start
Check fabric care labels on the bed and its cover. If the label permits machine washing, choose a gentle or delicate cycle and warm water (not hot) to avoid shrinkage. Pre-treat heavy stains with an enzyme pet stain remover, keeping the solution away from the bed’s foam insert unless specified safe. Remove any removable covers and wash separately to improve cleaning efficiency.
Time estimate: about 60–90 minutes from start to finish, including washing and drying. Ensure the washing machine has enough space for the bed, and consider a second rinse to remove all soap residue that can irritate pets.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean A Dog Bed In The Washing Machine
- Unzip and remove the removable microfiber cover from the dog bed. Wash the cover separately to protect the fill and maintain color.
- If the bed has a foam insert, remove it if possible. If not removable, spot clean the insert and replace after drying.
- Pre-treat any stains or odors with enzyme pet stain remover for dog beds, following directions on the bottle. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
- Place the cover and any soft components into a mesh laundry bag for machine wash to prevent snagging and to keep zippers from catching on the machine drum.
- Load the washing machine with a machine washable dog bed cover and other soft items to balance the load. Use a pet-safe unscented laundry detergent for dog beds in a small amount.
- Set the machine to a delicate cycle with warm water. If the bed is very dirty, a second rinse cycle can help remove all detergent residue.
- Run an extra rinse if your washer allows. Avoid hot water, which can damage some fabrics and foam components.
- Remove items promptly after the cycle completes. If the bed components are dryable, transfer to a pet bed dryer rack for quick air drying after washing to maximize airflow and reduce tumble-drying heat exposure.
- Reassemble the bed once everything is completely dry. Reinsert the foam or padding only when fully dry to prevent mold growth.
- Vacuum or brush the bed frame and surrounding area to remove any remaining fur and debris.
- Inspect for any lingering odor or stains. Repeat treatment if necessary, focusing on problem areas.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Persistent odor after washing | Insufficient rinse or odor-causing residue | Run an extra rinse and use a urine-neutralizing enzyme cleaner on tough spots | Wash regularly; treat stains promptly |
| Color fading or fabric fraying | Overloading or using too high a heat | Wash on delicate with cold or warm water | Follow care labels; use a gentle bag |
| Foam insert compressed after drying | Insufficient drying time | Air dry completely or use a low-heat dryer rack | Ensure thorough drying before reuse |
| Bed cover shrinking | Hot water or high heat | Rewash on warm or cold water with air dry | Avoid hot cycles |
Common Mistakes
- Using regular laundry detergent with strong fragrance
- Overloading the washing machine, which prevents proper cleaning
- Forcing the foam insert back in before it’s fully dry
- Not using a protective mesh bag for the cover and parts
Tips For Best Results
- Wash the cover separately from the bed’s padding to improve cleaning and drying times.
- Opt for a scent-free, pet-safe detergent to minimize skin irritation and allergies.
- Use a dryer rack or line drying when possible to extend the bed’s lifespan.
- Regularly inspect seams and zippers for wear and tear and repair as needed.
Call A Professional
Seek professional cleaning if the bed contains persistent mold, severe staining, or if the foam padding shows signs of degradation. Stop using the bed if there is any swelling, unusual odor, or material deterioration that could affect your pet’s safety.
FAQ
Is every dog bed suitable for machine washing?
Most removable covers are machine washable, but always check the care label for specific instructions.
How often should I wash a dog bed?
Washes every few weeks or as needed based on odor, staining, and pet activity.
Can I dry a dog bed in a regular dryer?
Only if the care label allows it and the fill can tolerate heat; otherwise use a dryer rack or air dry.
What if the cover won’t fit in the washing bag?
Pre-treat stains, wash in a larger bag or directly in the washer on a gentle cycle, ensuring the bed’s components aren’t damaged.
Buying Guide
When choosing a dog bed that’s easy to clean in the washing machine, consider size, construction, and fabric type. A large, machine-washable cover with a removable, microfiber surface tends to clean well and dry faster. Look for an integrated drying solution or a dedicated pet bed dryer rack to speed up air drying after washing. For households with sensitive pets, choose unscented, pet-safe detergents and enzyme stain removers to handle accidents effectively. Ensure the bed can withstand repeated washing without losing shape, and confirm that the cover and insert are compatible with your washer’s cycle options.