Real Dog Bed

Published on: May 5, 2025
Author: Mearedey Tauch

Your dog’s bed isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s where they dream, decompress, and feel safest. But let’s be honest: it also gets gross—fur, drool, dirt, and the occasional mystery smell. Whether you live with a muddy pup or a senior who needs extra hygiene, knowing how to clean a dog bed the right way can make all the difference.

Here’s your stress-free guide to keeping your dog’s bed (and home) feeling fresh, clean, and healthy.

🧼 How Often Should You Clean a Dog Bed?

The rule of paw: wash your dog’s bed once every 1–2 weeks.
If your pup is dealing with allergies, incontinence, or skin issues, aim for once a week or even more often.

🧺 Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Dog Bed

1. Remove All Covers
   If your dog bed has a removable, machine-washable cover (like Real Dog Bed does!), unzip it and shake out debris.
2. Vacuum the Foam Base
   Use a vacuum or lint roller to remove embedded fur, dander, and crumbs.
3. Pre-Treat Stains
   Spot-treat any urine, dirt, or food stains with a gentle, pet-safe stain remover.
4. Machine Wash Cold
   Wash the cover on a cold, gentle cycle using unscented, pet-safe detergent. Avoid fabric softeners—they can irritate your dog’s skin.
5. Air Dry or Tumble Dry Low
   To preserve shape and prevent shrinkage, air dry when possible. If you tumble dry, use the lowest heat setting.
6. Optional: Deodorize the Base
   Sprinkle a light layer of baking soda on the foam base, let sit for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum off.

🚫 What to Avoid

• No bleach or strong detergents – they can trigger allergies and ruin materials
• No high heat – it can damage memory foam or orthopedic layers
• Don’t skip vacuuming – fur buildup creates odor and bacteria

🌿 Keep It Fresher, Longer

• Place a blanket or towel on top of the bed for easy swapping
• Wipe muddy paws before bed
• Use a waterproof liner if your dog is a senior or a heavy drooler
• Rotate beds every few months for even wear and easier maintenance

💬 Final Woof

A clean dog bed isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for your pup’s health and your home’s air quality. With the right bed (we’re partial to Real Dog Bed, of course), cleaning is easy, durable, and totally stress-free.

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