How to Wash a Dog Bed Properly (2026) – Step-by-Step for Every Material

Quick Answer

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Before You Start: Read the Care Label

Every dog bed handles washing differently depending on its fill material and cover fabric. Before doing anything:

1. Check for a removable cover. Most quality beds have zippered, machine-washable covers. This is the single most important feature for long-term hygiene. 2. Identify the fill type. Memory foam, polyester fill, shredded foam, and cedar chips all require different cleaning approaches. 3. Read the care label. Some covers shrink on high heat. Some foam inserts cannot be submerged. The label saves you from expensive mistakes.

If your current bed doesn't have a removable cover, consider upgrading. Our best dog beds guide prioritizes beds with machine-washable removable covers — it's a non-negotiable feature for hygiene.

How to Wash Removable Dog Bed Covers

Step 1: Pre-clean. Vacuum or lint-roll the cover to remove as much pet hair as possible before loading it into the machine. Pet hair clogs drain pumps and sticks to washer drums.

Step 2: Pre-treat stains. Apply a paste of baking soda and water to visible stains. Let sit 15 minutes. For urine stains, use an enzymatic cleaner (Nature's Miracle or similar) — regular detergent doesn't break down urine crystals.

Step 3: Wash correctly.

• Temperature: Cold or warm (never hot — hot water sets protein stains and can shrink some fabrics)
• Detergent: Pet-safe, fragrance-free formula (fragranced detergents can irritate sensitive dogs)
• Cycle: Normal or gentle depending on fabric weight
• Addition: 1/2 cup white vinegar in the rinse cycle neutralizes odors naturally
• Avoid: Bleach (weakens fabric fibers) and fabric softener (reduces absorbency and can irritate skin)

Step 4: Dry properly.

• Microfiber/canvas: Tumble dry on low heat or line dry
• Fleece/sherpa: Air dry only — dryer heat causes pilling
• Oxford nylon: Air dry — heat can damage waterproof coating

How to Clean Memory Foam Dog Bed Inserts

Critical rule: Never put memory foam in a washing machine or submerge it in water. Memory foam is a sponge — it absorbs water throughout its structure and takes days to dry, creating a perfect environment for mold and mildew growth inside the foam.

Monthly maintenance clean: 1. Remove the cover and vacuum the entire foam surface with an upholstery attachment 2. Sprinkle baking soda generously over the entire surface 3. Let sit for 30 minutes to absorb odors and moisture 4. Vacuum thoroughly

Spot cleaning stains: 1. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water 2. Dip a clean cloth in the solution — wring out until barely damp 3. Gently blot (never rub) the stain 4. Blot with a clean, dry cloth to absorb moisture 5. Allow to air dry completely before re-covering

Deep sanitizing (quarterly): 1. Complete the monthly clean steps above 2. Lightly mist the foam surface with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution 3. Place in direct sunlight for 2–4 hours — UV light is a natural antimicrobial 4. Ensure foam is completely dry before re-covering

For orthopedic memory foam beds, proper foam care extends the lifespan significantly — a well-maintained high-density foam insert lasts 4–5 years.

How to Wash Dog Beds Without Removable Covers

Beds without removable covers are harder to clean but manageable:

For small beds that fit in your washer: 1. Vacuum thoroughly first 2. Pre-treat stains with enzymatic cleaner 3. Wash on gentle cycle, cold water, pet-safe detergent 4. Run an extra rinse cycle to flush all detergent 5. Dry completely — tumble dry on low or air dry. Do NOT use high heat.

For beds too large for your washer: 1. Take outside and vacuum or shake out debris 2. Fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and pet-safe detergent 3. Submerge the bed and gently agitate by hand for 5–10 minutes 4. Drain and refill with clean water to rinse. Repeat until water runs clear. 5. Squeeze (don't wring) out excess water 6. Air dry completely in the sun — this can take 24–48 hours depending on thickness

Important: If the bed has memory foam inside and no removable cover, do NOT submerge it. Spot clean the surface only.

This is why removable covers matter. When you're ready to upgrade, look for beds in our anxiety-relief collection or waterproof collection — all feature removable, washable covers.

Drying Your Dog Bed: Critical Tips

Improper drying is the #1 cause of mold, mildew, and premature odor development in dog beds.

Do:

• Air dry foam inserts completely (24–48 hours) before re-covering
• Use direct sunlight when possible — UV kills bacteria and freshens naturally
• Use a fan pointed at the bed to accelerate drying indoors
• Tumble dry covers on LOW heat only
• Feel inside seams and corners to confirm complete dryness before reassembling

Don't:

• Put memory foam in the dryer — heat degrades viscoelastic properties
• Use high heat on any dog bed component — causes shrinkage and fabric damage
• Re-cover a foam insert that feels even slightly damp
• Skip the drying step on rainy days — wait for proper conditions

How Often Should You Wash a Dog Bed?

Cover: Every 1–2 weeks — the same frequency as your own bedsheets. More often if your dog is muddy, drools heavily, or has skin conditions.

Foam insert: Monthly surface clean, quarterly deep sanitize. Baking soda and vacuuming monthly keeps odors controlled. Quarterly sun-drying and vinegar sanitizing prevents bacterial buildup.

Full bed replacement timeline:

• Standard polyester fill: Every 6–12 months (when fill flattens permanently)
• Memory foam: Every 3–5 years (when foam stops recovering its shape within 10 seconds)
• Latex foam: Every 5–7 years

Signs your bed needs immediate washing:

• Visible stains or soiling
• Noticeable odor even from a distance
• Your dog has had fleas or ticks
• Your dog is recovering from illness
• Someone in the house has allergies that are worsening

Frequently Asked Questions