Dog bed stuffing is a material that is used to fill the inside of a dog bed. The most common types of stuffing are cotton, foam, and polyester.
How to wash a dog bed with stuffing depends on the type of stuffing used. All dog beds can be spot-cleaned by hand, but some can be machine-washed.
Cotton stuffing can be bleached to remove any dirt or stains. Foam stuffing can be cleaned with a damp cloth, and polyester stuffing can be washed in the washing machine.
How to Wash a Dog Bed with Stuffing
When shopping for dog beds, always choose a dog bed that can be machine washed so you can keep the bed healthy and smelling fresh.
To wash a dog bed with stuffing, you will need:
- A large washing machine
- Washing detergent
- White vinegar
- Remove the stuffing from the dog bed. Most dog beds have removable covers, so you can easily take the stuffing out. It will be enclosed in a thin fabric cover like a pillow.
- If your dog bed does not have a removable cover, you may need to cut it open to remove the stuffing pillow.
- Wash the cover of the dog bed. If your dog bed has a removable cover, you can machine wash it on a gentle cycle. If the cover is not machine washable, you can hand wash it with mild soap and water.
- Wash the stuffing of the dog bed. The stuffing can be machine washed on a gentle cycle or hand washed with mild soap and water.
- Allow everything to air dry completely before putting it back together. Once everything is dry, put the stuffing back into the dog bed cover and zip it up.
If your dog bed has a removable cover, the best way to wash it is to remove the cover and wash it separately.
Most dog beds have a waterproof or water-resistant liner that can be wiped down with a damp cloth.
If your dog bed is filled with stuffing and the cover is not removable, you will need to wash the entire bed.
Washing your dog’s bed regularly will help prolong its life and keep it looking and smelling fresh.
To wash a plush dog bed, unzip the cover and remove the stuffing. Hand wash the cover in cold water with a mild detergent and air dry before replacing the cover.
When washing a heated dog bed, be sure to remove the heating pad before washing the cover and stuffing according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Read our related article on How to Wash Dog Bed Foam the Right Way! Keep your dog’s bed fresh and clean with these tips!
How to Wash a Very Dirty Dog Bed
Some dog beds are too large to fit in a washing machine, or the bed is too dirty to get clean in a washing machine. In this case, it can be cleaned by hand in a large tub.
- Soak the bed in a tub or sink full of warm water and liquid laundry detergent. Agitate the fabric to help loosen dirt and debris. Let the bed soak for about 15 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water.
- Fill a bathtub or large container with enough cool water to cover the bed. Add a small amount of pet shampoo (or dish soap) and agitate the water to create suds. Soak the bed for 5 minutes, then rinse it off.
- Mix 1 cup of vinegar with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. Spritz the bed liberally, then let it sit for about 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Create a paste out of baking soda and water, then rub it into the bedding. Let the paste sit for about 15 minutes, then vacuum it off.
- Take the bed outside and hose it down. Be sure to remove all soap residue before bringing the bed back inside.
Read our related article on How to Deodorize Your Dog’s Bed! We show you step-by-step how to get rid of doggy smells to keep your home fresh.
Importance of Washing a Dog Bed
How to wash a dog bed with stuffing is an important thing to know because it is important for keeping your home and dog healthy.
It Helps to Keep Your Dog Clean and Healthy
When you wash your dog’s bed, you are also washing away any dirt, bacteria, or parasites that may be lurking in their sleeping area.
This helps to keep your pup clean, healthy, and free from any potential infections or skin problems.
It Removes Bad Smells
Let’s face it, dogs can be smelly, and their bed is one of the places where their scent is most concentrated. Washing it regularly will help to remove any bad smells, and leave their bed smelling fresh and clean.
It Helps to Prolong the Life of The Bed
By keeping the dog bed clean, you are helping to prolong its life. Dirt, saliva, and other body fluids can break down fabrics and cause them to deteriorate more quickly.
Washing their bed regularly will help it to stay in good condition for longer.
It’s a Good Bonding Activity
Washing your dog’s bed is a great opportunity to bond with your furry friend. It’s a chance to give them some one-on-one attention and show them that you care about their comfort and wellbeing.
Some dogs may be upset that you are taking apart their favorite pillow or bed. Use this time to give extra playtime, cuddles, and comfort to your furry best friend.
It’s Good Practice for When They’re Sick
If your dog ever needs to go into the hospital for treatment, they may have to have their bedding washed as part of the sterilization process.
Getting into the habit of washing their bed now will make it easier for both you and them if this ever happens.
Read our related article on How Big Should a Dog Bed Be? Discover which size bed your dog needs to be comfortable and cozy!
Risks of Not Washing the Dog’s Bed
Dogs are known for being some of the messiest animals in the world. Not only do they leave messes on the floor, but they also tend to cause a lot of chaos when it comes to their bedding.
In fact, many people choose not to wash their dog’s bedding as often as they should for fear that it will not be clean when they’re done.
However, there are a number of very good reasons why you should wash your dog’s bedding on a regular basis.
Here are 6 side effects of not washing your dog’s bedding:
- Increased number of fleas and other parasites
- The build-up of bacteria and dirt can lead to skin infections
- The unpleasant odor that may be hard to get rid of
- Allergies or respiratory problems caused by dust mites
- Mold or mildew growth due to moisture build-up
- A decrease in the overall lifespan of the bedding
- Increased allergies due to dander build-up
Can You Wash the Inside of a Pet Bed?
Yes, you can definitely wash the inside of a pet bed. You will just need to remove the stuffing and wash it separately.
Some beds come with removable coverings that can be washed in the machine, but others do not. If your pet bed does not have a removable cover, you can still wash it by taking out the stuffing and handwashing it.
Make sure to air dry it completely before putting the stuffing back in and using the bed again.
