Sometimes that bed goes from a little smelly to downright intolerable. That’s why it’s important to give your dog's special place a thorough cleaning about once a month, weather permitting, since the bedding will need to be dried outside. The instructions below will work regardless of whether you’re trying to figure out how to clean a large dog bed or a smaller model.
You’ll need:
- A clean bathtub
- A handheld pet vacuum or vacuum with attachments
- A lint roller
- A gentle, pet-friendly laundry detergent
Step-by-Step Instructions
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1Step 1Vacuum
Vacuum the cover of the dog bed. Use the lint roller to tackle any stubborn pooch hair that won’t come free.
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2Step 2Remove cover
Remove the cover from the foam padding, take it outside and shake it out to get rid of any soil or dirt that has accumulated inside.
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3Step 3Submerge in hot water
Fill your bathtub with hot water, and submerge the bed cover. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This step will help kill any flea eggs that might be present.
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4Step 4Wring out cover
Remove the cover from the tub and wring it out well.
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5Step 5Wash in washing machine
Place the cover in the washing machine. Add your detergent and use the heavy-duty setting with cold water. Note: Do not put the cover in the dryer, as you could shrink it.
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6Step 6Drain & refill tub
Drain the tub, wipe it down and refill it with clean hot water. Add a little of the laundry detergent to the hot water.
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7Step 7Vacuum & lint roll foam bedding
Vacuum the foam bedding and hit it with the lint roller, just as you did with the cover.
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8Step 8Soak foam
Use your hands to massage the soapy water into the foam.
Repeat step 6.
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9Step 9Rinse
Rinse the foam out in the clean water. Squeeze it until no more soap runs out. You may need to do this several times until the water runs clear.
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10Step 10Dry
Set the cover and the foam padding outside in the sun to dry. Here again, you’ll want to lay them on a concrete driveway or patio rather than on the grass. Flip the bedding a few times to make sure it dries evenly.
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11Step 11Return cover
Vacuum the area where the bed typically sits before returning the cover and foam mattress.
Tip: In between washings, you can spray the bed with a pet-safe odor eliminator to keep your home from getting stinky.
You probably don’t want to sleep in a stinky bed that never gets clean, so why would your pup? Take the time to clean your BFF’s bedding on a regular basis, so that your canine companion can snuggle up and have sweet dreams. And know that every time you see that doggy grin, you’re really getting a big “thank you.”
