A clean and fresh dog bed is essential for the well-being of your dog and the hygiene of your home. Dogs spend a lot of time on their bed, and it is inevitable that it will collect dirt, hair and odours. Regularly washing your dog bed helps to maintain a healthy environment for your four-legged friend. In this blog we explain how to wash a dog bed the right way.
Step 1: Read the label
Before you start washing your dog cushion, it is important to read the label. This will provide the manufacturer’s specific washing instructions. Some dog cushions are fully machine washable, while others are hand wash only or have a removable cover that can be washed.
Step 2: Remove loose hair and dirt
Before washing your pillow, it is a good idea to remove loose hairs and dirt. You can do this with a vacuum cleaner or a lint roller. Removing hairs helps to prevent blockages in your washing machine and ensures a cleaner wash result.
Step 3: Wash the cover
Most dog beds have a removable cover that can be washed. Follow the instructions on the label for the correct washing temperature and detergent use. Preferably use a mild, hypoallergenic detergent that is safe for pets. Wash the cover on a gentle cycle to protect the fabric.
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Preparation: Unzip the cover and remove the inner cushion. Shake the cover to remove excess dirt and hair.
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Machine Washing: Place the cover in the washing machine. Use a mild, pet-safe detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can be harmful to your dog and damage the fabric.
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Drying process: Air dry the cover or use a low temperature in the dryer. Air drying helps to extend the life of the fabric and prevents shrinkage.
Step 4: Wash the inner cushion
Not all inner cushions are washable, so always check the label. If the inner cushion is washable, follow the same steps as for the cover. For large dog cushions, consider washing the cushion in a bathtub with warm water and mild detergent.
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Hand wash: Fill a bathtub or large basin with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Soak the inner pillow and gently knead to remove dirt and odors. Drain thoroughly afterwards.
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Rinse: Rinse the cushion thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Soap residue can irritate your dog's skin, so make sure the cushion is completely clean.
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Drying: Allow the inner cushion to air dry completely. Lay the cushion flat and turn it regularly to ensure even drying. Avoid using a dryer as this may damage the filling.
Step 5: Regular maintenance
To keep your dog bed fresh and clean, regular maintenance is essential. Vacuum the bed weekly to remove hair and dirt. Additionally, use a pet-safe odor remover to neutralize unpleasant odors. This will help keep the bed fresh between washes.
Additional tips
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Use fitted sheets: A fitted sheet over the dog cushion can help trap dirt and hair and keep the cushion itself clean. These covers are often easier to wash than the entire cushion.
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Protect the pillow: Consider using a waterproof or water-resistant cover to protect the pillow from accidents and spills. This will extend the life of the pillow and make cleaning easier.
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Replace in time: Even with regular maintenance and cleaning, a dog bed will wear out over time. Replace the bed regularly to ensure your dog always has a comfortable and hygienic place to sleep.
Conclusion
Keeping a dog bed clean is important for your dog's health and comfort. By following the correct washing instructions and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure that the bed stays fresh and hygienic. Dreamydog we offer a wide range of washable dog cushions and covers that are easy to keep clean. Visit our webshop for more information and choose the perfect cushion for your four-legged friend.
