Dogs are those cute creatures that can make you feel both love and annoyance at the same time. You can’t resist their hugs just like they can’t resist mud, fur, and a weird smell they love to carry. Not only do they bring all those unwanted guests to the house, but they also sleep on their bed. If you ever walked past your dog’s bed and felt that eww feeling, maybe it’s time to get a deep clean of your dog’s bed.

There are different types of beds in the market, whether you’ve got a chew proof dog bed UK collection or those plush ones from the best dog beds UK collections. Every bed demands regular washing. In this blog, you will explore by step-by-step guide on how to wash a dog bed and keep it clean and fresh with a good smell.

Why Washing Your Dog’s Bed Matters

Would you like to sleep in a bed that has dirt, hair, and flies hovering over it with an extraordinary foul smell? No, right! Although dogs spend their time in dirt and bring those bacteria and fleas to the home, but still wouldn't enjoy sleeping in a dirty bed. If you don’t clean your dog’s bed, then it can lead to unpleasant smells and even health issues like allergies or sensitive skin.

Now that you know it’s important to clean the bed, it’s important to know how often to wash a dog bed. The ideal number is once every 1-2 weeks. But it also depends on your dog; if you have a hyperactive dog, then cleaning once a week is recommended. However, if the dog is lazy bee then every 2 weeks is better.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Dog Bed

1. Check the Label First

Do not put everything you see into the washing machine; not everything is made for the washing machine. It’s important to check the care tag. Most of the easy clean dog beds have removable covers and are machine washable. Especially indestructible dog bed UK owners go for may come with special washing instructions that need gentle care.

2. Vacuum Thoroughly

Vacuum the bed to remove dog hair and other things like food crumbs, and anything else hiding in the corners. This step is important if you’re washing in a machine, as there can be a clog because of excess fur. 
Pro Tip: Sprinkle a bit of baking soda on the bed before vacuuming. It helps lift hair and neutralises odours.

3. Remove the Cover (If Applicable)

If the dog bed has a removable cover, unzip and separate it from the inner cushion. The cover can be cleaned with the machine, but the inner cushion needs to be spot cleaned or hand-washed. You can also buy chew-proof dog beds UK collection that are often waterproof or have easily washable covers that last long and resist wear and tear.

4. Pre-Treat Any Stains

You should not anticipate much from a single wash, especially with more difficult stains that are a few weeks old. Stains such as mud, urine, or even food stains can be treated beforehand with a pet-safe detergent or a liquid mix of vinegar and water. Be sure to let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes, and be patient!

5. Machine Wash (if Safe)

Put the cover (and the cushion, if possible) into the washing machine with unscented and mild detergent. Wash on warm or hot to eliminate germs, mites, and bacteria. If you are working with one of the best dog beds (made with memory foam or orthopedic materials), check to see if the inner foam is machine washable. If not, just skip ahead to hand washing.

Washing tips:

• To balance the load, add towels or old blankets
• It's good practice to run an extra rinse cycle to take away detergent
• Avoid fabric softeners they can irritate your dog’s skin
• Complete the cycle by putting it in the dryer if the care label says it is safe. If not, hang outside to dry.

6. Hand Wash (if Needed)

If a machine wash is not feasible, fill a tub or a large sink which is warm water, and add mild detergent. Submerge the bed or cushion, and gently scrub it, reflecting on any areas that may need more attention or that have an odor now.
Allow it to soak for 15-30 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly in clean water. Again, make sure it doesn’t have soap left in it. Soap can irritate skin.

7. Dry Properly

Drying is just as important as washing. Damp bedding can trap moisture and lead to mould or mildew. No one wants that.

• Machine-dry (if allowed) on a low heat setting
• Air-dry in direct sunlight for natural deodorising and disinfecting
• Avoid high heat if the bed has synthetic or memory foam parts

Drying outdoors is ideal. The sun helps kill lingering bacteria and leaves the bed smelling fresh without artificial fragrances.

How to Maintain a Clean Dog Bed Between Washes

Don't want to wash the whole bed every week? Here’s the right way to follow to understand how to wash a dog bed:

1. Use a washable blanket or cover on top of the bed
2. Vacuum the bed often to remove hair and dirt
3. Spot clean any stains as soon as possible
4. Use pet-safe sprays to freshen up the fabric
5. Keep your dog clean (regular brushing and bathing your dog help more than you can imagine)

If you are considering investing in a dog bed, check out some easily cleaned options (and/or even chew-proof options) - UK pet owners definitely agree that makes the whole thing much easier and more hygienic for ongoing maintenance!

Best Types of Dog Beds for Easy Cleaning

If you’re in the market for a new dog bed and don’t want to deal with the hassle of hand-washing, look for these features:

• Removable, machine-washable covers
• Waterproof inner liners
• Odour-resistant materials
• Durable stitching and chew-resistant fabric

Some of the best dog beds UK pet owners love come with antibacterial protection or quick-dry designs. A good example is an indestructible dog bed UK vets and trainers suggest for active chewers or dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Final Thoughts

Washing a dog bed properly not only helps to keep your home smelling fresh but also protects your dog's good health. Using a good choice of materials, plus an easy routine, can make it so much easier and more of a habit.

PetBuds UK is here to help you, whether you're looking for stylish dog beds, comfortable dog beds, or beds tough enough to withstand even the most persistent chewers. Have a look at our range of chew-proof, easy-clean dog beds to help make cleaning a lot easier!