🐾 How Often Should You Wash Your Dog’s Bed
(why your should wash it, and How to Do It Right)?
Friends of the Dog
(why your should wash it, and How to Do It Right)?
Friends of the Dog
pic by Ellie Burgin
Your dog’s bed is their cozy haven—a place they nap, chew, shed, and sometimes drag in a little of the outside world. But just like our own bedding, your dog’s bed needs regular cleaning to keep your pup healthy and your home smelling fresh.
How Often Should You Wash Your Dog’s Bed?
The general rule of thumb is:
Wash your dog’s bed at least once every 1–2 weeks.
However, factors like your dog’s lifestyle, breed, and health can affect this frequency:
Why It's Important to Wash Your Dog’s Bed
A dirty dog bed can harbor:
How to Wash Your Dog’s Bed
Follow these steps for a thorough clean:
Tip: Sunlight is a natural disinfectant—let your dog’s bed air out in the sun whenever possible.
Extra Tips
Final Woof
Your dog deserves a clean, comfy place to rest—and keeping their bed fresh is a simple act of love that supports their health and your household’s hygiene. A little routine care goes a long way!
How Often Should You Wash Your Dog’s Bed?
The general rule of thumb is:
Wash your dog’s bed at least once every 1–2 weeks.
However, factors like your dog’s lifestyle, breed, and health can affect this frequency:
- Active, outdoorsy dogs: Wash weekly—they bring in more dirt, allergens, and pests.
- Dogs with allergies or skin issues: Wash more frequently (every few days) to reduce triggers.
- Low-shedding or mostly indoor dogs: Every 2–3 weeks may suffice.
- It smells bad
- Your dog had an accident
- There’s visible dirt or debris
Why It's Important to Wash Your Dog’s Bed
A dirty dog bed can harbor:
- Bacteria and fungi – which can lead to skin infections
- Fleas, ticks, and mites – which cause discomfort and health issues
- Allergens – like pollen, dander, and dust
- Odors – that spread to your home
How to Wash Your Dog’s Bed
Follow these steps for a thorough clean:
- Check the Label - Look at the care instructions on the tag. Some beds are machine-washable; others may require handwashing or spot-cleaning.
- Remove Loose Hair and Debris
- Vacuum the bed thoroughly
- Shake it outdoors or use a lint roller
- Remove Covers (if applicable)Wash the cover and inner cushion separately if they can be removed.
- Use Pet-Safe Detergent. Choose a mild, fragrance-free detergent to avoid skin irritation.
- Machine Wash (if allowed)
- Use warm or hot water to kill bacteria
- Add baking soda to help with odors
- Dry Completely
- Tumble dry on low or air dry in sunlight
- Ensure the bed is completely dry to prevent mold or mildew
Tip: Sunlight is a natural disinfectant—let your dog’s bed air out in the sun whenever possible.
Extra Tips
- Rotate beds: Having two beds allows one to be in use while the other is being washed.
- Use washable covers: They make cleaning easier and prolong the life of the bed.
- Vacuum regularly: Between washes, vacuuming helps reduce buildup of hair and allergens.
Final Woof
Your dog deserves a clean, comfy place to rest—and keeping their bed fresh is a simple act of love that supports their health and your household’s hygiene. A little routine care goes a long way!