Will washing my dog's bed kill fleas?
Yes, washing your dog's bed in hot water (at least 140°F / 60°C) kills adult fleas, larvae, and eggs. The key is using high heat in both the wash and dry cycles. Regular cold-water washing won't do the job—fleas can survive cool temperatures. Below, we explain how to wash a flea-infested dog bed properly, how often to do it, and what else you need to do to stop fleas from coming back.
Quick Answer: Does Washing Kill Fleas?
Yes, but only with hot water and high heat drying.
Adult fleas and their eggs die when exposed to temperatures above 140°F (60°C). Washing in hot water plus a full dryer cycle on high heat is the most effective way to eliminate fleas from bedding.
Cold or warm water alone won't work.
Fleas can survive cooler temperatures. If your washing machine doesn't get hot enough, you'll need to supplement with other methods like steam cleaning or freezing.
How to Wash a Dog Bed to Kill Fleas
Step 1: Remove the bed and vacuum the area.
Fleas don't just live on the bed—they hide in carpet, cracks, and furniture. Vacuum the floor and any nearby surfaces before washing the bed.
Step 2: Shake out loose debris outside.
Take the bed outdoors and shake off fur, dirt, and any visible flea dirt (small black specks that look like pepper).
Step 3: Wash on the hottest setting.
Use hot water (at least 140°F) and a pet-safe detergent. Add a cup of white vinegar to help break down oils and odors.
Step 4: Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
The dryer's heat is just as important as the wash. High heat kills any fleas or eggs that survived the wash cycle.
Step 5: Inspect and repeat if needed.
Check for any remaining flea dirt or live fleas. If you see signs of infestation, wash again or consider replacing the bed.
What If My Dog's Bed Isn't Machine Washable?
Some beds have foam inserts or materials that can't go in the washer. In that case, you have a few options:
Steam clean the surface.
A handheld steam cleaner reaches high enough temperatures to kill fleas and sanitize fabric. Go over the entire bed slowly.
Freeze the bed.
Place the bed in a large plastic bag and leave it in a freezer for 24–48 hours. Freezing kills fleas and eggs, though it may not eliminate all larvae.
Spot-clean with hot, soapy water.
Scrub the bed with a brush, hot water, and pet-safe detergent. Let it air dry completely in direct sunlight—UV rays help kill lingering pests.
If flea problems are frequent and washing is difficult, it may be time to upgrade to a fully machine-washable bed. Beds that can be tossed in the washer—cover and fill—make flea prevention much easier.
How Often Should You Wash a Flea-Infested Bed?
During active infestation: every 2–3 days.
Fleas reproduce quickly. Washing every few days breaks their life cycle and prevents eggs from hatching into adults.
After treatment: once a week for a month.
Even after treating your dog and home, wash the bed weekly to catch any stragglers. Flea eggs can survive for over a week before hatching.
For prevention: every 1–2 weeks.
Regular washing keeps flea populations from building up in the first place. It also reduces odors and allergens.
Where Do Fleas on Dog Beds Come From?
Fleas don't magically appear—they hitchhike from other animals, outdoor environments, or even your clothing. Here are the most common sources:
Other pets or wildlife.
If your dog plays with other animals or roams in areas where wildlife passes through, fleas can jump onto their fur.
Carpets, furniture, and clothes.
Flea eggs fall off your dog and land in soft surfaces. When those eggs hatch, the larvae crawl into dog beds, carpets, and upholstery.
Outdoor environments.
Grass, dirt, and shaded areas where other animals rest are hotspots for fleas. Your dog picks them up during walks or playtime.
Preventing Fleas Beyond Washing the Bed
Washing the bed is important, but it's only one part of flea control. Here's what else helps:
Treat your dog with vet-approved flea prevention.
Monthly topical treatments or oral medications stop fleas before they infest your home.
Vacuum frequently.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture at least twice a week during flea season. Empty the vacuum outside immediately to prevent eggs from hatching indoors.
Wash all pet bedding and blankets.
Don't forget throw blankets, crate pads, and any fabric your dog touches regularly. Wash them in hot water on the same schedule as the bed.
Keep your dog's sleep area clean and dry.
Fleas thrive in dark, damp spaces. Choose a bed that dries quickly and is easy to clean. If you're shopping for a new one, our dog bed size guide can help you find the right fit for your pup.
Can Flea Eggs Survive in a Clean Bed?
Flea eggs are tough, but they can't survive high heat or complete dryness. If you wash and dry the bed properly, eggs won't hatch.
The bigger risk is eggs that fall off the bed and into carpet or furniture. That's why treating the bed alone isn't enough—you need to clean the entire room.
Should You Replace a Flea-Infested Dog Bed?
If the bed is old, damaged, or impossible to clean thoroughly, replacing it may be the smartest move. A new, fully washable bed gives you a fresh start and makes future flea prevention easier.
Look for beds with removable, machine-washable covers and materials that dry quickly. Waterproof liners also help—if your dog has accidents or if you need to wipe down surfaces between washes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vacuuming a dog bed kill fleas?
Vacuuming removes adult fleas, eggs, and larvae from the surface, but it doesn't kill them unless you empty the vacuum outside immediately. For full elimination, washing in hot water is more effective.
Can I use flea spray on my dog's bed?
Yes, but read labels carefully. Some flea sprays are safe for fabric, while others are designed only for pet fur. Always let the bed dry completely before your dog uses it again.
How long can flea eggs live on a dog bed?
Flea eggs can survive for over a week in the right conditions—dark, humid, and undisturbed. Regular washing and vacuuming interrupt their life cycle and prevent hatching.
