A dog bed is used daily. Hair, dust, dander, sand, and sometimes moisture accumulate in it. However, it’s not always obvious from the outside when a thorough cleaning is needed. How often should you wash a dog bed, can the entire bed go into the washing machine, and what do you do with a filling that isn't washable?
In this guide, you'll learn how to clean your dog's resting place step-by-step, without unnecessarily stressing the cover, zippers, or filling. The most important rule is simple: always check the washing label first and treat the cover and filling as separate components.
How often should you clean a dog bed?
A practical starting point is to regularly check and clean the bed weekly. The US health service CDC recommends weekly cleaning for pet beds and blankets as a general schedule. This doesn't mean that every complete bed needs to go into the washing machine every week. Often, removing hair, vacuuming, and spot cleaning are sufficient, while you wash the removable cover according to its washing label.
How often washing is truly necessary depends on the dog and its use. Clean the bed sooner if:
- your dog sheds a lot;
- the coat is often wet or muddy after walks;
- a distinct odor develops;
- there is visible dirt, saliva, urine, or vomit on it;
- your dog visits multiple outdoor spots and then immediately lies in the bed;
- a veterinarian has requested extra hygiene.
For a dog that sheds little, usually comes in clean and dry, and lies on an extra blanket, the removable cover may need a full wash less often. Therefore, don't just follow a fixed calendar, but also pay attention to odor, moisture, and visible dirt.
Short cleaning schedule for home
- Every few days: remove loose hair, sand, and crumbs.
- Weekly: vacuum the seams, underside, and area beneath the bed. Check the cover for stains and moisture.
- When needed: wash the removable cover according to the washing label.
- Immediately after an accident: blot up moisture and treat the spot before it penetrates deeper into the filling.
- After washing: allow all components to dry completely before reassembling the bed.
This schedule is a basic guideline. A puppy, a long-haired dog, or a dog that enjoys playing in mud and water usually requires more frequent maintenance.
Washing a dog bed: first read the washing label
Not every dog bed is made of the same materials. A cover made of polyester, corduroy, or fleece may have different instructions than a core made of foam, flock filling, or fiber filling. Therefore, before you start, check for:
- the maximum washing temperature;
- whether machine washing is allowed;
- whether the cover can be tumble dried;
- whether bleaching or dry cleaning is excluded;
- whether only the cover, or also an inner cover, is washable.
Can't find a label? Don't randomly choose a hot program. Contact the seller or manufacturer and for now, only spot clean the filling. Too high a temperature, hard spinning, or a dryer can cause fabric to shrink, stress zippers, and deform some fillings.
Step-by-step cleaning of the dog bed
1. Remove hair and loose dirt
Gently shake out the bed outdoors. Then use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery nozzle and carefully go along the corners, seams, and zipper. Do not pull hard on loose threads and do not vacuum with maximum force directly on delicate seams. Stuck hairs can first be loosened with a suitable hair remover or a lightly damp rubber glove.
This step prevents large amounts of hair from ending up in the washing machine and filter.
2. Disassemble the bed
Gently unzip the outer cover and remove the base and bolster fillings. If necessary, take a photo beforehand so you know which part belongs where later. Immediately check the zipper, seams, and inner covers for wear or damage.
Do not force a zipper if fabric is caught in it. Move the zipper back a bit, free the fabric, and then try again.
3. Pre-treat stains
Blot a fresh stain with a clean, absorbent cloth. Do not rub hard, as this can spread moisture further. For spot cleaning, use a small amount of lukewarm water and a mild, preferably unscented detergent suitable for the fabric. Test the detergent first on an inconspicuous area.
Do not use aggressive cleaners without checking if they are safe for the material and for pets. Never mix cleaning products.
4. Wash the cover according to the label
Close the zipper before the cover goes into the washing machine. If the washing label doesn't exclude it, turn the cover inside out. Choose the prescribed temperature and a gentle program. Dose detergent carefully, as more detergent does not automatically make a cover cleaner and can leave residues.
For the By Cee Cee orthopedic dog bed, the outer cover is fully removable and, according to current product information, washable at 30 °C. The bed is actively available in various designs and sizes. Always check the label of your specific product even for this bed before washing.
5. Clean the filling correctly
Do not assume that the filling can go into the washing machine just because the cover is washable. Foam cores and loosely filled inner cushions can retain water, deform, or be difficult to dry completely. If the label does not explicitly state that the filling is machine washable, opt for:
- good airing in a dry place;
- gentle vacuuming with a clean upholstery nozzle;
- spot cleaning with a lightly damp cloth;
- immediate blotting dry after a small accident;
- allowing enough drying time before putting the cover back on.
Do not completely drench a non-washable filling. Moisture that remains inside is difficult to control and can cause an unpleasant odor.
6. Allow everything to dry completely
Preferably dry the cover as indicated on the washing label. Only use the dryer if explicitly allowed. Lay or hang the cover out generously and ensure sufficient ventilation. Only reassemble the bed when both the cover and filling feel completely dry.
Avoid prolonged direct sunlight if the fabric may be prone to discoloration. Do not place wet foam parts directly on a heater, as strong localized heat can affect the material.
7. Reassemble the bed gently
Distribute the filling evenly and carefully push the corners into place. Close the zipper without pulling on it. Then lightly shake the bed and let it rest for a moment so its shape can recover.
Is the bed new and delivered vacuum-packed? Then the filling will need more time. For the By Cee Cee orthopedic dog bed, we recommend shaking the bed well upon receipt and allowing it to rest for 24 to 48 hours.
What to do with urine, vomit, or a wet bed?
Act as quickly as possible. Move the dog away from the spot, put on gloves if necessary, and blot up as much moisture as possible. Then remove the cover and follow the washing label. If the liquid has seeped into a non-washable filling, gently clean the spot and allow the component to dry very thoroughly.
If a strong odor persists after drying, or if the filling has become deeply saturated, replacing the affected inner component may be the most careful solution. In case of repeated urination, diarrhea, vomiting, or other sudden changes in behavior, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian. This blog provides maintenance advice and does not replace a medical assessment.
Extra attention for fleas, fungus, or a contagious condition
A normal washing routine is not the same as a targeted hygiene protocol. In cases of fleas or a veterinarian-diagnosed contagious condition, different cleaning instructions may apply. The PDSA, for example, mentions washing bedding at high temperatures for fleas, but not every dog bed or cover can withstand such temperatures.
In that situation, follow your veterinarian's treatment advice while also considering the washing label. If the material cannot tolerate the recommended approach, ask what safe alternatives are suitable. Never just use a pesticide on the bed or near your dog.
How to keep the dog bed fresh longer
- Dry wet paws. This prevents moisture and sand from directly soaking into the cover.
- Use a washable blanket. A loose blanket is often quicker to wash than the entire cover.
- Ventilate the resting spot. Do not permanently place the bed against a damp wall or in an area without air circulation.
- Vacuum under the bed too. Hair and sand often accumulate along the edges and underside.
- Alternate with an extra cover. This ensures your dog always has a familiar resting spot when the other cover is being washed and dried.
- Check seams and zippers. A small loose thread or initial damage is easier to repair before it gets worse.
Common mistakes when washing a dog bed
Putting the entire bed in the washing machine without checking
A bed can become too large or heavy once it absorbs water. Moreover, the filling is often not intended for machine washing. Therefore, first remove all loose components.
Washing hotter than the label indicates
A higher temperature seems more thorough but can cause shrinkage, discoloration, or deformation. The product's washing label remains the guiding principle.
Using too much detergent or fabric softener
Overdosing can leave residues and a strong odor. Use the recommended amount for the wash load and preferably choose a mild product. Fabric softener is usually not necessary.
Replacing the cover while parts are still damp
A cover may appear dry on the outside while seams or filling still contain moisture. Give each component sufficient drying time.
Forcing a loose zipper or seam
Open and close zippers gently. Check that no fabric or filling is caught between the teeth and do not forcefully cram inner cushions through an opening that is too small.
What to look for in an easy-to-maintain dog bed?
An easy-to-clean bed starts with a practical design. When choosing, look for a fully removable cover, clear washing instructions, separate inner cushions, and a fabric from which hair can be easily removed. An extra loose cover or washable blanket makes daily maintenance even easier.
Additionally, choose an appropriate size. In a bed that is too small, the cover may become extra tight, while a very large bed may not fit in your washing machine. So, don't just consider comfort, but also how you can wash and dry the removable cover at home.
Frequently asked questions about washing a dog bed
Can a dog bed go in the washing machine?
Only if the washing label allows it. For many models, only the removable outer cover can go into the machine. The filling then needs to be aired separately or spot cleaned.
At what temperature do you wash a dog bed?
Always follow the temperature on the washing label. The cover of the By Cee Cee orthopedic dog bed is washable at 30 °C. Do not automatically use a warmer program, as this can damage the material and zippers.
Can the filling of a dog bed go in the washing machine?
That depends on the material. Only do so if the manufacturer explicitly states it. Foam and some inner cushions can deform or retain a lot of water.
Can the cover of a dog bed go in the dryer?
Only if the drying symbol on the label allows it. Air drying is the safest choice if in doubt.
How do you get dog hair out of a bed?
First shake out the bed, then use an upholstery nozzle. Stubborn hairs can be loosened with a suitable reusable hair remover. Remove as much hair as possible before the cover goes into the washing machine.
How do you prevent a dog bed from smelling quickly?
Regularly remove hair and dirt, dry wet paws, use a loose washable blanket, and ensure good ventilation of the resting area. Clean accidents immediately and never put a damp cover back on.
Can you use cleaning vinegar or bleach?
Do not use any product without checking that it is suitable for the fabric according to the manufacturer and can be safely rinsed out. Bleach and other aggressive agents can damage the material. Never mix cleaning agents.
When should you replace a dog bed?
Replacement may be advisable if the filling is permanently deformed or deeply soiled, components no longer dry completely, the zipper does not close securely, or seams and fabric are so damaged that normal use is no longer safe.
A fresh resting place without unnecessary wear and tear
Cleaning a dog bed doesn't have to be complicated. Regularly remove loose dirt, wash the removable cover according to the label, and treat the filling only in a way suitable for its material. Allow everything to dry completely and check seams, zippers, and shape with every cleaning.
With a consistent, calm routine, the bed stays well-maintained, and you prevent small stains or damp spots from getting worse. This way, your dog always has a clean and comfortable place to rest.
Sources consulted on August 27, 2026: CDC, cleaning and disinfecting pet supplies, LICG, a dog's own resting place and PDSA, fleas on dogs.