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How To Clean A Dog Bed

We love our furry friends, but as adorable as they may be, pet odor is not one of the perks that comes with owning a dog. And while it may be somewhat easy to pop your pupcakes in the tub or take them to the groomer, figuring out how to clean a dog bed is a bit more complicated.

Don’t worry: The housekeeping professionals at Merry Maids have you covered, whether you’re trying to figure out how to clean a large dog bed or a small one. Ready to learn the best ways to help your dog have sweet smelling dreams? Let’s go!

How to Clean a Dog Bed on a Routine Basis

Smell isn’t the only factor to consider when it comes to doggie hygiene. You also need to keep pups and their belongings clean because it can help prevent flea infestations. Ideally, you should clean your canine BFF’s bedding once or twice a week.

You’ll need:
  • A handheld pet vacuum or vacuum cleaner with attachment
  • A lint roller brush
  1. Take the bed outside and give it a good shake so that any fur, dander or dirt falls loose.
  2. You can air the bed out in the sun for a while if you like, but try to place it on a patio or concrete driveway away from grassy patches. That way you can reduce the odds of unintentionally bringing fleas into your home.
  3. While the bed is airing out, clean up any stray fur or debris by vacuuming the spot in your house where the pet bedding typically sits.
  4. Before returning the bed to its usual place, vacuum it to remove any pet hair.
  5. Use a lint roller to give the dog bed a once over so that you can remove those stubborn pieces of fur that refuse to let go.

How to Wash a Dog Bed

Sometimes that bed goes from a little smelly to downright intolerable. That’s why it’s important to give your dog's special place a thorough cleaning about once a month, weather permitting since the bedding will need to be dried outside. The instructions below will work regardless of whether you’re trying to figure out how to clean a large dog bed or a smaller model.

You’ll need:
  • A clean bathtub
  • A handheld pet vacuum or vacuum with attachments
  • A lint roller
  • A gentle, pet-friendly laundry detergent
  1. Vacuum the cover of the dog bed. Use the lint roller to tackle any stubborn pooch hair that won’t come free.
  2. Remove the cover from the foam padding, take it outside and shake it out to get rid of any soil or dirt that has accumulated inside.
  3. Fill your bathtub with hot water, and submerge the bed cover. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This step will help kill any flea eggs that might be present.
  4. Remove the cover from the tub and wring it out well.
  5. Place the cover in the washing machine. Add your detergent and use the heavy-duty setting with cold water. Note: Do not put the cover in the dryer, as you could shrink it.
  6. Drain the tub, wipe it down and refill it with clean hot water.
  7. Vacuum the foam bedding and hit it with the lint roller, just as you did with the cover.
  8. Add a little of the laundry detergent to the hot water.
  9. Use your hands to massage the soapy water into the foam.
  10. Repeat step 6.
  11. Rinse the foam out in the clean water. Squeeze it until no more soap runs out. You may need to do this several times until the water runs clear.
  12. Set the cover and the foam padding outside in the sun to dry. Here again, you’ll want to lay them on a concrete driveway or patio rather than on the grass.
  13. Flip the bedding a few times to make sure it dries evenly.
  14. Vacuum the area where the bed typically sits before returning the cover and foam mattress.
Tip: In between washings, you can spray the bed with a pet-safe odor eliminator to keep your home from getting stinky.

You probably don’t want to sleep in a stinky bed that never gets clean, so why would your pup? Take the time to clean your BFF’s bedding on a regular basis, so that your canine companion can snuggle up and have sweet dreams. And know that every time you see that doggy grin, you’re really getting a big “thank you.”

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