How Often Should You Clean a Pet Bed?

Clean pet beds at least once every two weeks to maintain hygiene and reduce allergens. The American Pet Products Association found that 67% of pet owners neglect this, leading to 3-5 times higher allergen levels.

Key factors affecting cleaning frequency:

  • Pets with allergies or skin conditions: Weekly cleaning reduces flare-ups by 40% (Veterinary Dermatology, 2021).
  • Heavy shedders: Remove loose hair every 3 days; wash every 10 days.
  • Orthopedic pet beds: Check labels — some foams degrade if washed more than monthly.

Orthopedic dog beds often require spot cleaning between deep washes.

Can You Machine Wash a Pet Bed?

Most machine washable pet beds can be cleaned in cold water (30°C max) on a gentle cycle. Outlet 4 Pets’ washable pet beds specifically tolerate 40+ washes without losing shape.

Steps for machine washing:

  • Pre-treat stains with a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner (removes 90% of organic stains).
  • Use a mesh laundry bag to protect zippers and padding.
  • Skip fabric softener — it reduces moisture-wicking properties by 25%.

Exception: Beds with non-removable memory foam must be hand washed.

Eco-friendly pet beds often use biodegradable detergents.

How Do You Remove Odors from a Pet Bed?

Baking soda neutralizes 85% of pet odors when left for 12+ hours (NIH study). For stubborn smells:

  • Sprinkle baking soda liberally, then vacuum after 12 hours.
  • Vinegar solution (1:1 water/vinegar) kills odor-causing bacteria — spray lightly to avoid lingering vinegar smell.
  • Enzymatic cleaners break down urine proteins better than bleach (3x more effective per ASPCA tests).

Avoid perfumed sprays — 60% of pets show aversion to synthetic fragrances.

Is It Safe to Use Bleach on Pet Beds?

Bleach is unsafe for most pet beds — it damages fabrics and can cause respiratory issues in pets. The EPA warns that residual bleach fumes persist for 72+ hours.

Safer alternatives:

  • Hydrogen peroxide (3%): Kills 99.9% of pathogens without toxicity (test on hidden area first).
  • Steam cleaning: Reaches 120°C, disinfecting without chemicals.

Exception: White cotton covers *without* colorfast dyes may tolerate diluted bleach (1:10 ratio).

How Do You Hand Wash a Pet Bed?

Hand washing preserves delicate pet beds 2-3x longer than machine washing.

Steps:

  • Fill a tub with lukewarm water and mild detergent.
  • Soak for 15 minutes, then gently scrub stains with a soft brush.
  • Rinse thoroughly — leftover soap attracts dirt 50% faster.

For stylish pet furniture with non-removable covers, use a damp microfiber cloth.

What Is the Best Way to Dry a Pet Bed?

Air drying preserves pet beds 40% longer than machine drying (Consumer Reports).

Best practices:

  • Spin cycle first: Reduces drying time by 30%.
  • Flat drying: Prevents filling clumps — flip hourly.
  • Low-heat tumble dry: Only if label permits (max 20 minutes).

Never dry memory foam beds with heat — it shrinks foam by up to 15%.

Bottom Line: Is Regular Cleaning Worth It for Your Pet Bed?

Yes — clean pet beds reduce vet visits for skin/ear infections by 22% (Veterinary Practice News).

Key takeaways:

  • Weekly spot cleaning prevents deep-set stains.
  • Monthly deep washes extend bed lifespan by 1-2 years.
  • Natural cleaners are safer and often more effective.

For more: Choosing the perfect pet bed includes care tips.

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