To wash a dog bed, read the care instructions for both the outer cover and the inner cushion before adding anything to the washing machine. Remove loose hair, separate the parts as directed, and use only the cleaning and drying methods approved for each material. A machine-washable cover does not mean the foam or filling can be washed the same way.
This guide explains how to plan a dog bed cleaning routine, handle removable covers, and check that every layer is dry before your dog settles back in.
Start with the dog bed's care label
Find the care label or the manufacturer's instructions for your exact bed. Check whether the cover is removable, whether the insert can be washed, which cleaning products are permitted, and how each part should be dried.
Pay attention to separate instructions for waterproof liners, bolsters, nonslip backing, foam, and decorative trims. A zipper makes a cover removable, but it does not establish that the cover is machine-washable. If the label is missing or unclear, ask the manufacturer before soaking or machine-washing the bed.
Gather supplies and prepare a temporary resting spot
Have a suitable vacuum attachment or lint-removal tool, a clean cloth, and a detergent permitted by the care instructions ready. Choose a product suitable for the fabric and follow its directions. Do not add fragrance boosters, fabric softener, bleach, or other treatments unless the bed's instructions allow them.
Give your dog another clean, dry place to rest while the bed is being cleaned. Keep detergents, zipper pulls, and removable parts away from pets and children.
Step 1: Remove loose hair and debris
Before wet cleaning, remove as much surface hair, dirt, and crumbs as practical. Use a vacuum attachment or lint-removal tool suitable for the fabric, taking care around seams and worn areas. This makes it easier to see stains and reduces the amount of loose material entering the wash.
Inspect the bed for open seams, exposed filling, damaged zippers, and worn backing. Follow the manufacturer's repair advice or replace damaged components where appropriate. Do not leave a bed in use if your dog can readily pull out and swallow its filling.
Step 2: Separate the cover, liner, and insert
Unzip and remove only the parts designed to come apart. Avoid forcing a large foam insert through a small opening. A quick photo can help you remember the position of bolsters and cushions when reassembling.
Keep nonwashable inserts dry and away from wet laundry surfaces. If the cover and liner have different care instructions, clean them separately. Do not assume a water-resistant cover has protected the insert completely; check underneath for moisture or staining.
Step 3: Treat stains only as permitted
If the instructions allow spot treatment, use a compatible cleaner and follow both its label and the fabric-care directions. Test on an inconspicuous area when recommended. Blot rather than aggressively scrubbing delicate material.
For urine or other accidents, remove excess moisture promptly using the permitted method. An enzyme-based cleaner may be an option only if it is suitable for the bed's materials and used according to its label. Keep your dog away during treatment and until the surface is ready for use. Never mix cleaning products.
Step 4: Wash the removable cover
If the cover is machine-washable, follow its specified temperature, cycle, detergent, and closure instructions. Use a machine with enough capacity for the item to move as intended; do not force an oversized bed or cover into a small drum. Check the washing machine's own load guidance as well.
If hand washing is required, use the method and water temperature specified for the fabric. Rinse as directed so cleaning-product residue is not left in the material. Avoid choosing a hotter cycle or stronger treatment simply because the cover smells dirty; that can damage fabrics, backing, or protective layers.
Step 5: Clean foam and filling according to their own instructions
Foam inserts, loose fiber filling, and enclosed cushions can have very different care requirements. Some are spot-clean only, while others may permit a particular washing method. Do not put foam in a washing machine or immerse it unless the manufacturer explicitly allows that treatment.
For a spot-clean-only insert, follow the recommended method without saturating it. Avoid wringing or twisting foam. If an insert has persistent odor, deep contamination, or damage that cannot be addressed using its approved cleaning method, ask about a replacement rather than repeatedly soaking it.
Step 6: Dry every layer completely
Check whether each component must air-dry or can go in a tumble dryer. Use only the allowed heat setting and method. High heat can damage some foam, covers, waterproof layers, and nonslip backing.
Allow enough time for thicker areas, seams, and cushion centers to dry. A cover that feels dry on the outside does not establish that the filling underneath is ready. Do not reassemble the bed while any part remains damp, and do not use an oven or space heater to speed up drying.
Once everything is dry, check shape, seams, fastenings, and backing. Refit the cover without straining the zipper and make sure the finished bed lies securely on the floor.
How often should you wash a dog bed?
Use the manufacturer's guidance and adjust the routine to the bed's condition and your household. Outdoor dirt, wet coats, shedding, and accidents can change how much cleaning is needed. Remove surface debris between washes when the fabric permits.
Clean up spills and soiling promptly rather than waiting for a calendar date. If a skin condition, parasite problem, or other health concern requires a special cleaning routine, ask your veterinarian for suitable instructions instead of assuming ordinary washing is enough.
Common dog bed cleaning mistakes
Washing every part together: Check the cover, liner, and insert separately.
Overloading the machine: An item that fits through the door may still exceed the machine's suitable load.
Adding unapproved cleaners: Stronger fragrance or a harsher treatment does not necessarily mean a cleaner or more suitable bed.
Putting the cover back on damp filling: Wait until all layers are fully dry.
Ignoring damaged seams: Inspect before and after cleaning, especially if your dog chews bedding.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash a dog bed with no removable cover?
Only using the method approved for the whole bed. Some enclosed beds are washable, while others require spot cleaning. Check the bed's label and your machine's capacity before proceeding.
Can I put a foam dog bed in the dryer?
Only if the manufacturer explicitly permits it. Do not infer that a foam insert is dryer-safe because its cover can be tumble-dried.
Why does the bed still smell after washing?
Check whether the insert is affected, whether cleaning residue remains, and whether every layer dried fully. Follow approved care methods rather than covering the smell with fragrance. An insert that cannot be adequately cleaned may need replacement.
Make easy care part of your next bed choice
When comparing dog beds, look beyond the word washable. Check which parts can be cleaned, how the insert is maintained, whether replacement covers are available, and how much drying space you need.
Brandi's Pet Shop carries dog beds in its catalog. Review the care instructions for the individual model before purchasing, and choose a bed whose maintenance requirements suit your home as well as your dog's resting space.
