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The best way to clean a dog bed is to remove loose hair first, wash the removable cover, clean the inner cushion as the care label allows, and dry every part fully before putting the bed back together. Regular cleaning helps control dirt, fur, drool, and everyday pet smells.
Always check the bed’s care label before washing, drying, bleaching, or using heat. Some dog beds can go in a washing machine. Others need spot cleaning or hand washing.
Start by Checking the Care Label
Look for washing directions on the cover, cushion, or bottom of the bed. The label may tell you:
- Whether the cover is removable
- Whether the cushion can be machine washed
- Which water temperature to use
- Whether the bed can go in a dryer
- Whether bleach or fabric softener should be avoided
Do not assume the whole bed is washable just because it fits in the machine. Foam inserts, waterproof liners, and beds with stiff supports may need different care.
If the label is missing, use cool or lukewarm water, mild detergent, and gentle cleaning methods. Avoid high heat unless the manufacturer says it is safe.
Remove Hair and Loose Dirt First
Dog hair can collect inside the washing machine and stick to the bed during the wash. Remove as much as possible before adding water.
Take the bed outside and shake it well. Then use one of these tools:
- A vacuum with an upholstery attachment
- A lint roller
- A rubber pet-hair brush
- A slightly damp rubber glove
- A soft-bristle brush
Pay extra attention to seams, corners, zippers, and fabric folds. Crumbs, dirt, and small bits of grass often hide in these areas.
Pretreat Stains and Smelly Spots
Check the bed for drool marks, muddy areas, food stains, or urine spots. Treat them before washing so they do not set deeper into the fabric.
Blot wet spots with a clean towel. Do not rub hard, since rubbing can spread the mess.
Apply a small amount of mild laundry detergent mixed with water. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot or gently work it into the fabric with a soft cloth.
For pet messes, use a cleaner made for the type of fabric on the bed. Enzyme cleaners are often used to break down organic messes such as urine, but they are not suitable for every fabric or foam. Follow the cleaner label and test it on a hidden area first.
Do not mix cleaning products. In particular, never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar, or other household cleaners.
Wash a Removable Dog Bed Cover
A removable cover is usually the easiest part to clean.
Zip the cover closed before washing unless the care label says otherwise. Closing the zipper may help protect its teeth and reduce stretching.
Use:
- A gentle washing cycle
- Mild, fragrance-free detergent
- The water temperature listed on the label
- An extra rinse if detergent tends to remain in thick fabric
Wash the cover by itself or with other pet bedding. Avoid packing the machine too tightly. The cover needs room to move so water and detergent can reach the fabric.
Strong scents may bother some dogs. Heavy fabric softeners can also leave residue, so it is usually best to skip them unless the care label allows their use.
How to Clean the Inner Cushion
The correct method depends on what is inside the bed.
Fiber-Filled Cushions
Beds filled with polyester fiber may be machine washable if the label allows it. Use a large machine with enough space for the cushion to move.
A packed washer may not clean or rinse the center of a thick bed. It may also become unbalanced during the spin cycle.
For a large bed, a high-capacity machine may work better than a small home washer. Check the washer instructions before adding bulky pet bedding.
Solid Foam Beds
Solid foam should not usually be placed in a washing machine unless the manufacturer clearly says it is washable. The washer can tear the foam or leave it waterlogged.
To clean foam:
- Remove and wash the outer cover.
- Vacuum loose hair and dirt from the foam.
- Blot stains with a cloth dampened with mild soapy water.
- Wipe the area again with a clean damp cloth.
- Press with dry towels to remove extra moisture.
- Air-dry the foam flat in a well-ventilated area.
Do not soak the foam. Thick foam can take a long time to dry, and moisture may stay trapped inside.
Shredded Foam Beds
Some shredded foam beds have an inner liner that keeps the filling together. Do not open the liner unless the product instructions say to do so.
Spot-clean the liner or wash it only as directed. Loose foam pieces can be difficult to handle and may damage a washer or dryer.
Check the cover, fill, care label, bed size, stain or odor source, moisture, extraction, and full drying.
Bolster and Support Beds
Dog beds with raised sides may contain mixed materials, such as foam panels and fiber filling. The center cushion may be washable while the outer frame is not.
Check each piece separately. Do not wash rigid inserts, cardboard supports, or foam bolsters unless the manufacturer permits it.
Hand-Washing a Dog Bed
Hand washing can work for beds that are too delicate for a machine but safe to soak.
Use a bathtub, large sink, or clean storage tub. Fill it with enough cool or lukewarm water to cover the bed. Add a small amount of mild detergent.
Gently press the bed under the water. Do not twist or pull it, since this can move the filling into lumps.
Drain the dirty water and refill the tub with clean water. Press and rinse until the water runs clear and no soap remains.
Push out extra water with your hands. Then roll the bed in clean towels to absorb more moisture. Avoid wringing it.
Dry the Dog Bed Completely
A dog bed must be fully dry before your dog uses it again. Damp filling can develop a musty smell.
Follow the care label. Depending on the bed, you may be able to:
- Tumble-dry it on low heat
- Use an air-only dryer setting
- Hang the cover to dry
- Lay the cushion flat on a drying rack
- Air-dry it near a fan
Turn thick cushions several times so both sides dry. Press the center to check for cool or damp areas.
High heat can shrink covers, weaken waterproof coatings, or damage foam. Use heat only when the label allows it.
Do not put a damp cover back over a damp cushion. Let every part dry separately first.
How Often Should You Clean a Dog Bed?
A removable cover can often be washed every one or two weeks. The inner cushion may need less frequent cleaning if it stays protected.
Clean the bed sooner when:
- It smells
- It has visible dirt or stains
- Your dog came inside muddy
- The bed is used by several pets
- Your dog sheds heavily
- The bed is near an outdoor door
- Your dog has had an accident
A dog bed in a crate or bedroom may stay cleaner than one used on a porch, in a car, or beside a food bowl.
Keep the Bed Cleaner Between Washes
Small cleaning habits can reduce how often the whole bed needs a deep wash.
Vacuum the bed every few days during heavy shedding. Wipe muddy paws before your dog lies down. Wash blankets placed on top of the bed more often than the cushion itself.
A washable throw or fitted pet-bed cover can protect a hard-to-clean foam bed. Make sure the extra layer does not block airflow or create loose fabric that your dog may chew.
Clean spills and accidents as soon as possible. Fresh messes are usually easier to remove than dried ones.
Common Dog Bed Cleaning Mistakes
Washing Without Removing Hair
Loose fur may clog filters, collect in the washer, or stick to other laundry. Vacuum first.
Using Too Much Detergent
Thick bedding can trap soap. Use a modest amount and rinse well.
Washing a Bed That Is Too Large for the Machine
A tightly packed bed may not get clean. It can also place stress on the washer. Use a larger suitable machine or clean the bed by hand.
Soaking Foam
Foam can hold water deep inside. Spot-clean it unless the care instructions say it can be washed.
Using High Heat
Heat may shrink the cover, damage foam, or affect waterproof backing. Follow the care label.
Putting the Bed Back Together While Damp
Moisture can remain between the cover and cushion. Dry all parts fully before reassembly.
When a Dog Bed May Need Replacing
Cleaning cannot fix every problem. Consider replacing the bed if:
- The foam is crumbling
- The filling stays lumpy after drying
- The cover has large tears
- The zipper no longer closes
- The bed stays strongly smelly after proper cleaning
- The inner cushion cannot be dried fully
- Your dog has chewed through the fabric and can reach the filling
Choose a replacement with a removable, machine-washable cover if easy care is a priority. A spare cover can also make laundry day easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a dog bed in the washing machine?
Some dog beds are machine washable, but others are not. Check the care label for the cover and inner cushion separately. Foam beds and beds with rigid supports often need spot cleaning.
What detergent should you use for a dog bed?
Use a mild detergent that rinses clean. A fragrance-free option can help reduce strong leftover scents. Follow the detergent directions and avoid using more than needed.
Can you put a dog bed in the dryer?
Only use a dryer if the care label allows it. Low heat or an air-only setting may be recommended. Foam inserts should not go in the dryer unless the manufacturer clearly says it is safe.
How do you clean a dog bed that cannot be washed?
Vacuum it well, blot stains with mild soapy water, wipe away detergent with a clean damp cloth, and let the bed air-dry fully. Use a washable cover or blanket to help protect it in the future.
How do you remove dog hair before washing the bed?
Shake the bed outside, then use a vacuum, lint roller, rubber brush, or damp rubber glove. Clean seams and corners where hair collects.
How often should a dog bed be washed?
Many removable covers can be washed every one or two weeks. Wash sooner when the bed is dirty, smelly, muddy, or used by several pets. Follow the product’s care guidance.
Why does a dog bed still smell after washing?
The bed may still contain trapped dirt, detergent, or moisture. Wash or rinse it again if the care label allows, and make sure the center dries completely. A deeply damaged or heavily soiled cushion may need replacing.
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