How to Wash Dog Bedding Properly (Without Ruining Your Washing Machine)

Dogs bring a lot of joy into our homes...but they also bring fur, dirt, and the occasional mystery smell into their beds.

Dog beds work hard. They collect fur, dirt, drool, oils, and whatever your pup tracked in from the backyard or park. Over time, that cosy sleeping spot can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria, odours, and allergens if it’s not cleaned regularly.

The good news? Washing dog bedding doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach, you can keep your dog’s bed fresh, hygienic, and long-lasting, without damaging your washing machine in the process.

This guide covers exactly how to wash dog bedding, including machine washing, hand washing, drying tips, and how often you should be doing it.

Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Bedding Matters

Before we get into the “how,” it’s worth understanding why regular dog bed cleaning is so important.

A clean dog bed helps:

• Reduce odours in your home

• Prevent bacteria, mould, and parasites

• Minimise allergens like dust mites and dander

• Support your dog’s skin and coat health

• Extend the life of the bed itself

In Australia, where dogs often spend time outdoors, washing pet bedding becomes even more essential due to dirt, sand, and seasonal allergens.

How to Wash Dog Bedding: Step-by-Step

The exact method will depend on the type of bed, but this process works for most standard dog beds.

1. Check the Care Label

Start here. Some dog beds have removable covers, while others are fully washable. The label will tell you:

• Whether it’s machine washable

• Recommended water temperature

• Drying instructions

If there’s no label, default to a gentle wash and air drying.

2. Remove Loose Hair and Debris

Before putting anything in the washing machine, remove as much hair as possible.

You can use:

• A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment

• A lint roller

• Rubber gloves (when slightly damp), or

• Specially designed pet hair cleaning mitts, like this one

This step is crucial to avoid clogging your washing machine.

3. Pre-Treat Stains and Odours

If there are visible stains or strong smells:

• Use an enzyme-based cleaner (great for urine or organic messes)

• Or apply a mix of baking soda and water to affected areas (mix to a paste-like thickness)

Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before washing.

4. Machine Wash (If Suitable)

For most dog beds and covers:

• Use cold or warm water (avoid hot unless specified)

• Choose a gentle or heavy-duty cycle depending on thickness

• Use a pet-safe, mild detergent

Avoid strong fragrances, as they can irritate your dog’s skin.

If you're washing pet beds that are bulky, consider using a laundromat machine for better space and balance.

5. Rinse Thoroughly

Run an extra rinse cycle if possible. This ensures:

• No detergent residue remains

• Reduced risk of skin irritation

6. Dry Completely

Drying is just as important as washing.

Options:

• Air dry in the sun (ideal in Australia, and has a natural antibacterial effect)

• Tumble dry on low heat if the label allows

Make sure the bed is completely dry to prevent mould or mildew.

How to Wash Dog Beds Without Removable Covers

Some dog beds don’t have removable covers, which makes washing a dog bed slightly trickier.

Here’s what to do:

• Spot clean first with an enzyme cleaner

• Soak the entire bed in a bathtub with warm water and detergent

• Gently scrub problem areas

• Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear

• Squeeze out excess water (don’t wring aggressively)

• Air dry completely

These beds take longer to dry, so plan ahead.

Tips for Washing Pet Bedding Safely

Washing pet bedding regularly is great, but doing it incorrectly can damage your machine.

Here’s how to avoid that:

• Always remove excess fur before washing

• Don’t overload the washing machine

• Wash pet items separately from clothes

• Clean your washing machine filter regularly

• Run an empty rinse cycle afterwards to clear hair and debris

A simple habit like this can save you from costly repairs.

What to Use When Cleaning a Dog Bed

Choosing the right products matters more than most people think.

Best options:

• Mild, fragrance-free detergent

• Pet-safe enzyme cleaners

• White vinegar (natural deodoriser)

• Baking soda (odour neutraliser)

Avoid:

• Harsh chemicals

• Bleach (unless heavily diluted and safe for fabric)

• Strongly scented detergents

Dogs have sensitive noses and skin, so gentler is always better.

How Often Should You Wash Dog Bedding?

This depends on your dog’s lifestyle, but here’s a general guide:

• Indoor dogs: every 1–2 weeks

• Outdoor or active dogs: weekly

• Puppies or dogs with allergies: more frequently (every few days if needed)

If the bed smells or looks dirty, it’s already time.

Regular washing dog bedding also makes each clean easier. Less buildup means less effort.

Extra Tips to Keep Dog Beds Cleaner for Longer

Want to reduce how often you need to wash dog beds? A few small habits go a long way:

• Use a removable, washable cover

• Place a blanket or liner on top (easy to wash weekly)

• Brush your dog regularly to reduce shedding

• Wipe paws before they come inside

• Rotate between two beds so one is always clean

These simple steps can cut your cleaning time in half.

FAQ: Washing Dog Bedding

1. Is it okay to wash dog bedding in the washing machine?

Yes, most dog bedding can be safely washed in a washing machine, especially if it has a removable cover. Just make sure to remove excess hair first, follow care instructions, and avoid overloading the machine. For large or heavy beds, a commercial machine may be a better option.

2. What should I wash my dog's bedding with?

Use a mild, pet-safe detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals and strong fragrances. You can also add white vinegar to help neutralise odours or baking soda for extra freshness. Avoid products that could irritate your dog’s skin.

3. How to wash pet bedding without ruining the washing machine?

The key is preparation:

• Remove as much fur as possible before washing

• Wash bedding separately from clothes

• Don’t overload the drum

• Clean the machine filter regularly

Running an empty rinse cycle after washing pet beds can also help clear any leftover debris.

4. How often should you wash a dog's bedding?

Most dog beds should be washed every 1–2 weeks. However, active dogs, outdoor dogs, or dogs with allergies may need more frequent cleaning. If you notice odours or visible dirt, don’t wait, wash it sooner.

5. Can I use hot water when washing a dog bed?

Warm water is usually safer. Hot water can damage certain fabrics or fillings unless the care label specifically allows it. If you’re trying to kill bacteria, focus on using the right detergent and thorough drying instead.

6. How do I get rid of strong odours in dog bedding?

Use a combination of enzyme cleaner (for organic smells), baking soda, and white vinegar during washing. Air drying in sunlight also helps naturally eliminate odours.

7. Can I put a dog bed in the dryer?

It depends on the material. Many covers can go in the dryer on low heat, but inner foam or stuffing often needs to be air dried. Always check the care label to avoid damage.

 

Keeping your dog’s bed clean isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s part of maintaining their overall health and comfort. Once you build it into your routine, washing pet bedding becomes quick, easy, and totally manageable.