How to wash a dog bed comes down to six straightforward steps: vacuum off loose fur, spot-treat stains, run a gentle wash cycle with detergent and vinegar, then air-dry completely. The key is checking your bed's care label first—some beds are fully machine washable, while others only let you remove and wash the cover.
Regular cleaning keeps your pup's sleep spot fresh and odor-free. Below, we walk you through the full process and explain why washability matters more than you might think.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You don't need fancy products. Here's what works:
- Washing machine (or large basin for hand washing)
- Pet-safe laundry detergent
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Vacuum cleaner
Step 2: Remove Loose Dirt and Fur
Start by vacuuming the bed or shaking it outdoors. Getting rid of loose hair and debris makes the wash more effective.
This step also keeps your washing machine from clogging with fur.
Step 3: Spot-Clean Stubborn Stains
Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply it to any visible stains and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Then scrub gently with a brush. This lifts dirt before the main wash.
Step 4: Wash the Bed
Place the dog bed in your washing machine. Run it on a gentle cycle with warm water.
Add your regular detergent and one cup of white vinegar. The vinegar breaks down odor-causing bacteria without harsh chemicals.
Step 5: Air-Dry the Bed Completely
Take the bed out and lay it flat in a well-ventilated area. Avoid the dryer—high heat can shrink fabric or damage the fill.
Full drying prevents mildew. Depending on thickness, this can take 12–24 hours.
Step 6: Freshen with Baking Soda
Once the bed is bone-dry, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the surface. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then vacuum it up.
This final step pulls out any lingering smells and leaves the bed feeling fresh.
Whole-Bed Washable vs. Cover-Only: What's the Difference?
Most dog beds only let you wash the outer cover. The foam or filling stays inside, which means dirt, drool, and bacteria can build up where you can't reach.
Fully machine-washable beds solve that problem. You toss the entire bed into the washer—no unzipping, no hand-scrubbing foam inserts. This is especially helpful for puppies who have accidents or senior dogs with incontinence.
Some newer designs use self-heating technology that reflects your dog's body heat—with no wires or electric parts inside. Because there's nothing electronic to damage, the whole bed can go straight into the machine.
If washing the bed feels like a chore, a fully washable design cuts the hassle in half.
How Often Should You Wash a Dog Bed?
A good baseline is every one to two weeks. If your dog plays outside daily, has allergies, or is still being potty trained, aim for weekly.
Between washes, a quick vacuum and a sprinkle of baking soda keep things fresher. Need help choosing the right bed size before you buy? Check out our dog bed size guide to find the best fit for your pup.
3 Quick Tips to Keep Your Dog's Bed Cleaner Longer
Use a washable blanket on top.
It catches most of the fur and dirt before it reaches the bed itself. Toss the blanket in the wash weekly.
Wipe muddy paws at the door.
A small towel by the entrance saves you from washing the whole bed after every rainy walk.
Make sure the bed dries all the way.
Damp filling is where mildew and funky smells start. Give it extra time if it's thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a dog bed in the dryer?
Most dog beds should be air-dried. High heat can shrink the cover or damage the filling. Always check the care tag first.
How do I get rid of dog smell in the bed?
White vinegar in the wash cycle neutralizes odors naturally. After the bed dries, a baking soda treatment absorbs any leftover smells.
Can I wash a memory foam dog bed?
Memory foam should not go in the washing machine—it absorbs too much water and can break apart. Wash the cover separately and spot-clean the foam by hand.
