Your dog’s bed is basically a magnet for dirt, dander, drool, and the occasional mystery smell. Washing it in a machine can feel risky, especially if the bed is bulky or has a special filling. But with the right steps, you can get it clean without ruining it. Here is exactly how to wash a dog bed in a washer, from prep to drying, so your pup has a fresh, cozy spot to crash.
Check The Care Label First
Before you even think about the washer, flip the bed over and find the care tag. Most dog beds have a removable cover that you can wash separately, but the inner foam or stuffing often needs a different approach. If the tag says “spot clean only” for the inner pad, do not ignore it. For beds with non-removable filling, you may need to wash the entire bed on a gentle cycle with no spin. If you have a heavy-shedding breed like a Bernese Mountain Dog, you will especially want to check the tag because their thick fur can clog your machine if you are not careful.
Remove Loose Fur And Debris
Shake the bed outside or over a trash can to dislodge loose fur, crumbs, and dirt. Then use a lint roller or a rubber brush to pull off as much hair as possible. This step is not just about cleanliness, it protects your washer from getting clogged with pet hair. If your dog has a double coat, you might be surprised how much fur comes off. For extra stubborn hair, throw the bed in the dryer on a no-heat air fluff cycle for 10 minutes with a dryer sheet to loosen the fur before washing.
Pre-Treat Stains And Odors
Spot treat any visible stains with a pet-safe stain remover or a mix of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 15 minutes. For tough odors, especially if your dog has been drooling a lot (like some Bernese Mountain Dogs are known to do), add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar neutralizes smells without leaving a strong scent once the bed is dry.
Wash On A Gentle Cycle With Cold Or Warm Water
Place the bed cover or the entire bed (if it is machine-washable) in the washer. Use a pet-safe, enzyme-based detergent that breaks down organic stains. Avoid fabric softener, it can break down the waterproof lining or make the filling clump. Use cold or warm water, not hot, to prevent shrinking or damaging the foam. If the bed is large, wash it alone to give it room to move. For extra fluffiness, toss in a couple of clean tennis balls in a sock during the rinse cycle.
If your dog bed has a waterproof liner, zip it inside a mesh laundry bag before washing. This prevents the liner from tearing and keeps the filling from escaping into your machine.
Dry Thoroughly, But Gently
Drying is the most critical step. A damp dog bed can develop mold or mildew, which is bad for your dog’s skin and breathing. Air-dry the cover or bed outside in the sun if possible, the UV rays kill bacteria. If you use a dryer, set it to low heat or air fluff. Check the bed every 15 minutes and fluff it by hand. For beds with foam inserts, never put them in the dryer, let them air-dry completely, which can take 24 to 48 hours. A half-dry foam bed will smell sour fast.
A clean dog bed is not just about smell, it is about giving your dog a healthy place to rest after a long day of being your best friend.
How Often Should You Wash A Dog Bed?
For most households, washing the cover every two weeks is enough. The inner foam or pad can be washed every one to three months, depending on how much your dog sheds or drools. If your dog has allergies, wash the bed weekly. If you have multiple pets, like a dog and a cat who share beds, you might want to wash more often. For example, if you are wondering are Norwegian Forest Cats good with dogs, they often get along well and may snuggle together, which means more fur and dander to clean.
What About Beds That Do Not Fit In Your Washer?
If the bed is too large for your home washer, take it to a laundromat with a commercial-sized machine. Or spot clean it with a carpet cleaner and let it dry in the sun. Some pet owners also use a hose and a gentle shampoo to wash the bed outside on a sunny day, then let it drip dry. For heavy-shedding breeds like the Maine Coon cat or a Bernese Mountain Dog, a large bed can be a challenge, but a thorough cleaning every few months makes a big difference in your home’s smell and your pet’s comfort.
If your dog has skin issues or allergies, always use a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent. If you notice redness or itching after washing, stop using that detergent and ask your vet for a recommendation.
