Clean & Deodorize Dog Beds
Written by Shannon, Owner and Founder of Long Island MaidsDog beds collect hair, dander, drool, dirt, and oils—creating that distinctive "dog smell." Regular washing keeps your dog comfortable and your home fresh.
How Often to Wash
According to the American Kennel Club, regular washing prevents odor buildup and reduces allergens:
- Weekly: Vacuum or lint roll the bed
- Every 1-2 weeks: Wash removable cover
- Monthly: Full wash including insert/stuffing
- Immediately: After accidents, if dog has been sick, or after flea treatment
Before Washing: Remove Hair First
Pet hair clogs washing machines. Always de-hair the bed before washing (see our pet hair removal guide):
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Use rubber gloves (dampened) and rub in one direction
- Roll with a lint roller
- Tumble in dryer for 10 min on no-heat to loosen hair first
Washing the Bed
Check the Label
Most dog beds are machine washable, but check first. Look for water temperature and dryer settings. Remove any non-washable parts.
Pre-Treat Stains
Spray visible stains with enzymatic pet cleaner. Let sit 15-30 minutes. For heavy odor, sprinkle baking soda over the entire bed and let sit for an hour before washing.
Wash with Pet-Safe Detergent
Use unscented, dye-free detergent—dogs have sensitive skin. Add 1/2 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle to help remove odor and soften fabric. Use hot water if the bed allows it (kills bacteria and dust mites).
Double Rinse
Run an extra rinse cycle. Detergent residue can irritate your dog's skin and trap odors.
Dry Completely
Dry on low heat or air dry. The bed must be completely dry before use—dampness leads to mildew and more odor. Add wool dryer balls to fluff the filling.
Non-Washable Beds
For beds that can't go in the washing machine:
- Vacuum thoroughly—get into all seams and corners
- Spot clean stains with enzymatic cleaner
- Sprinkle with baking soda—let sit 30-60 min, vacuum off
- Spray with fabric refresher (pet-safe, unscented)
- Air out in sunlight—UV helps kill bacteria and freshen
Between Washes: Keep It Fresh
- Shake out the bed outside daily
- Vacuum weekly with pet attachment
- Sprinkle baking soda, wait 15 min, vacuum
- Use a washable blanket on top—wash that more often
- Keep bed in a well-ventilated area
- Wipe down waterproof liners weekly
When to Replace
Even with regular washing, dog beds don't last forever:
- Persistent odor that doesn't wash out
- Flattened or lumpy filling that doesn't bounce back
- Tears or holes exposing stuffing
- Stains that won't come clean
- General rule: Replace every 1-2 years depending on use
Choosing an Easy-Clean Bed
Next time you buy, look for:
- Removable, machine-washable cover—essential
- Waterproof liner—protects the filling
- Tightly woven fabric—resists hair embedding
- Quality filling—holds shape through washing
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash my dog's bed?
Wash removable covers every 1-2 weeks. Do a full wash including the insert/stuffing monthly. Vacuum or lint roll weekly between washes. Wash immediately after accidents, illness, or flea treatment.
Can I put a dog bed in the washing machine?
Most dog beds are machine washable—check the label first. Remove pet hair before washing to prevent clogging. Use a large-capacity machine for big beds. For beds too large for home machines, use a laundromat's commercial washer or hand wash.
What detergent is safe for washing dog beds?
Use unscented, dye-free laundry detergent—dogs have sensitive skin and strong scents can irritate them. Avoid fabric softeners. Adding 1/2 cup white vinegar to the rinse helps remove odors and softens fabric naturally.
How do I remove dog smell from a bed I can't wash?
Vacuum thoroughly, sprinkle with baking soda, wait 30-60 minutes, then vacuum again. Spot clean stains with enzymatic cleaner. Air the bed in direct sunlight—UV helps kill bacteria and freshen. Use a pet-safe fabric refresher spray between deep cleans.
When should I replace my dog's bed?
Replace when you notice persistent odor that won't wash out, flattened or lumpy filling that doesn't bounce back, tears or holes exposing stuffing, or stains that won't come clean. Generally, replace every 1-2 years depending on use and quality.
Related Guides
Need Help with Pet Odors?
Our pet-friendly cleaning service includes attention to all pet areas—beds, surrounding floors, and upholstery.
Serving: Dix Hills · Commack · Huntington · Cold Spring Harbor and 40+ more · View all areas