How to Wash a Dog Bed (Foam, Covers & Odors)

Dog beds absorb oils, dander, and outdoor dirt — a clean bed means fewer odors, less bacteria, and better sleep for pets (and humans sensitive to allergens). Here is how to wash every common bed type without destroying foam shape.

How Often to Clean

Vacuum the foam insert monthly even when the cover is clean.

Removable Cover Beds (Easiest)

1. Zip off cover; shake debris outside.
2. Pre-treat urine or saliva spots with enzyme cleaner 10 minutes.
3. Machine wash cold or warm per label — avoid hot water shrinking covers.
4. Air-dry or low heat; high heat degrades waterproof liners.

Foam Insert Without Machine Wash

Most memory foam and egg-crate inserts should not go in the washer.

Instead:

• Vacuum both sides with upholstery attachment
• Spot-clean with mild detergent + damp cloth; blot, never soak through
• Sprinkle baking soda, wait 30 minutes, vacuum for odors
• Sun-dry briefly on a dry day — UV helps, but don’t leave foam out for hours (UV can break down some foams)

If the insert is waterlogged or moldy, replace it — interior mold is a health hazard.

Bolster & Donut Beds

Check for hidden zippers on the bolster ring. Some “one-piece” plush beds are surface-wash only — forcing them into home machines tears stitching.

When non-removable, use a large commercial front-loader at a laundromat only if the care tag allows machine wash.

Orthopedic & Memory Foam Beds

High-density foam loses support if bent while wet. Keep inserts flat on a rack to dry 24–48 hours before reassembly.

Pair cleaning with our orthopedic bed buying guide when foam feels flat after years of use.

Detergents & Additives

• Fragrance-free, pet-safe detergent reduces skin flare-ups
• Skip fabric softener — it coats fibers and traps odor
• White vinegar in the rinse cup helps neutralize smell (test on dark fabrics first)

When to Replace the Whole Bed

• Permanent urine smell after enzyme treatment
• Foam chunks or permanent indentations (“nest” deeper than 2 inches)
• Torn waterproof liner leaking into foam
• Chewed corners exposing stuffing — ingestion risk

Allergy-Friendly Routine

Use a washable cover plus a liner sheet you change weekly. HEPA vacuum the sleeping area and wash dog blankets on the same schedule.

Shop replacement beds & blankets and orthopedic options when it is time to upgrade.

A clean bed is cheap preventive care — your dog spends 12+ hours a day on it. Make that surface as fresh as your own bedding.