Dogs bring companionship and joy, but they can also bring shedding, accidents, and muddy paws onto the bed. This guide offers practical, American-friendly steps to keep a bed clean when pets share your space, using common products and straightforward routines.
With routine care and the right gear, households with dogs can enjoy a tidy sleep surface without constant scrubbing or expensive deep cleans. The strategies below balance convenience, effectiveness, and gentle care for both fabrics and furry companions.
Quick Answer
Establish a simple routine: cover the bed with a waterproof or machine washable layer, brush or wipe down dogs before bed, spot-clean with a pet-safe enzymatic spray, and run the washable cover through the laundry regularly. If an accident occurs, act quickly with an enzymatic remover, rinse, and rewash the cover to prevent staining and odors from lingering.
What You’ll Need
- Waterproof dog bed cover queen size
- Machine washable dog bed cover
- Waterproof mattress protector for dog bed
- Enzymatic pet stain and odor remover spray
- Pet hair remover roller for bedding
Before You Start
Assess the bed frame, mattress, and any existing stains. Test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to prevent fabric damage. Plan a cleaning cycle every 1–2 weeks, and more often if dogs shed heavily or have accidents. Safety notes: keep cleaners out of reach of pets during and after use until surfaces are fully dry. Ensure the room is well-ventilated and follow product labels for dilution and usage instructions. Time estimates vary by setup but expect 20–60 minutes per cleaning cycle, plus drying time for any covers.
Step-By-Step: How To Keep Bed Clean With Dogs
- Choose the right cover: start with a waterproof mattress protector and a machine washable dog bed cover to guard the core mattress and simplify cleanup.
- Prep the bed: remove pillows or non-fabric components, and shake loose fur into a trash bag or vacuum to minimize debris during washing.
- Brush your dog: briefly brush or wipe paws and fur before bedtime to reduce hair transfer and dirt on the bed surfaces.
- Spot-clean promptly: for minor spills, wipe with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of enzymatic pet stain and odor remover spray to neutralize odors and break down organic residues.
- Wash regularly: launder the machine washable dog bed cover on a hot or warm cycle, following care instructions; replace the waterproof cover as needed if wear reduces efficacy.
- Protect the core: keep the waterproof mattress protector in place to shield the mattress from moisture and stains, and replace it if signs of wear appear.
- Address odors quickly: if odors linger after washing, reapply the enzymatic spray and allow air-drying in a well-ventilated area before re-covering the bed.
- Manage hair buildup: use a pet hair remover roller for bedding between wash days to keep surfaces clean and visually tidy.
- Maintain routine: set a gentle weekly schedule for brushing, quick wipe-downs, and a fresh wash of the covers to stay on top of messes.
- Inspect for wear: periodically check seams, zippers, and fasteners on waterproof covers and protectors for signs of damage and replace as needed.
- Reassemble and test: after washing and drying, reassemble the bed setup, ensure all components are dry, and place the bed back in its sleep zone for the night.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Persistent odor after washing | Enzymatic cleaners may not reach embedded residues | Re-treat with enzymatic remover and rinse thoroughly; air dry | Clean spills promptly; use a waterproof protector |
| Stubborn stains on cover | Hard-to-remove organic matter | Use recommended stain remover spray and rewash | Cover with waterproof protector to reduce staining |
| Cover leaking moisture | Damaged waterproof layer | Replace protector or cover; verify proper fit | Choose a high-quality waterproof option and inspect regularly |
| Excessive shedding on bedding | Healthy dog coat shedding season | Regular brushing; frequent quick wipe-downs | Brush outside and in common, clean areas often |
| Allergies flare after cleaning | Harsh cleaners or residues | Switch to pet-safe enzymatic products; ensure complete rinsing | Opt for fragrance-free formulations |
Common Mistakes
- Using regular household cleaners on fabrics that contact skin; they can leave residues.
- Washing only the surface without addressing hidden stains in the core mattress area.
- Neglecting to dry covers completely before reusing, which can promote mold or mildew.
- Failing to replace worn waterproof layers when they begin to leak.
- Integrating too many products at once, which may cause chemical interactions or confusion.
Tips For Best Results
- Establish a washing cadence that matches your dog’s shedding cycle and activities; more frequent washing during wet seasons can help.
- Choose waterproof products that are washing-machine friendly and designed for pet use.
- Keep an extra waterproof protector on hand for quick swaps when dirty events occur.
- Pre-treat stains with enzymatic sprays to prevent set-in residues from drying into fabrics.
- Rotate bed placements to reduce high-traffic wear on one area and extend cover life.
Call A Professional
If there are persistent bed odors that refuse to lift after multiple cleanings, or if stains become deeply embedded in memory foam or non-removable layers, consider consulting a professional upholstery cleaner with pet-friendly solutions. Seek help when excessive moisture or mold concerns arise, or if you notice any allergic reactions or skin irritations in household members that could indicate deeper contamination.
FAQ
How often should I wash a dog bed and cover?
Washing frequency depends on shedding, activity, and accidents, but a practical baseline is every 1–2 weeks for covers and monthly for the core if protected, more often during wet or muddy periods.
Can I use a regular detergent on the machine washable dog bed cover?
Use a mild, pet-safe detergent and avoid heavy scents; check care labels for water temperature and cycle recommendations.
What’s the best way to remove hair from bedding?
A pet hair remover roller is effective between washes; a damp rubber glove can also help lift hair from fabrics before washing.
Are enzymatic sprays safe for pets and humans?
Yes, when used as directed. Enzymatic products break down organic stains and odors without harsh chemicals; ensure surfaces are fully dry before pets re-enter the room.
Buying Guide
When selecting products to keep a bed clean with dogs, consider size, materials, and how they fit your routine. Key buying factors include size compatibility with your bed, noise level (for devices like rollers or vacuums used nearby), energy efficiency (for powered cleaners or washing machines), controls (ease of use and clear labeling), and placement (ease of access and ventilation in the sleeping area). Compare waterproof mattress protectors and machine washable covers by durability and washability, and assess how well each item aligns with your dog’s shedding and staining patterns. For quick decision-making, prioritize a waterproof protector paired with a machine washable cover, and supplement with an enzymatic stain remover for reliable, odor-free results. Keeping these factors in mind helps households maintain a clean, comfortable sleeping environment for both humans and dogs without constant upkeep.