We know all about cleaning our own bed, but how often should we clean our dog’s bed and what’s the best way to do it to ensure it’s free from bacteria?
Your pet’s bedding can harbor ticks, mites, and fleas. Laundry expert and CEO of Laundryheap, Deyan Dimitrov, has shared his ultimate guide on how to properly clean your dog’s bed to keep them happy and hygienic.
1 Start by removing pet hair from the bed
Firstly, remove all pet hair from the bed and their blanket. The best way to do this is by rolling lint on the bed and, if there’s a lot of hair, using a vacuum cleaner. Remove as much hair as possible and shake off the excess outdoors.
2 Treat any stains with a stain remover
Use your usual stain remover on your pet’s bedding before washing it. The stain remover will be removed during the cleaning process, so don’t worry as it won’t harm your pet. For a more natural alternative, opt for some white vinegar and let it penetrate the stain for five to 10 minutes before washing.
3 Put all bedding and blankets in the washing machine
Put all your dog’s bedding and blankets in the washing machine and wash them separately from any other laundry on a cold wash. Use a pet-specific detergent and add some pet hair solvent to get rid of any remaining hair. Avoid using fabric softener or any other products in the rinse cycle as they may cause irritation to your dog.
If your washing machine is not big enough to fit your pet’s bed, the bathtub (or even the shower) is the next best option – just make sure to clean and disinfect it afterward.
4 Dry in the dryer or naturally
Dry your pet’s bedding in the dryer and choose an eco-friendly setting. If you’re looking for a more natural option or simply don’t have a dryer, place your pet’s bedding in the sun to dry.
Sun-drying the bedding is not only more eco-friendly, but the ultraviolet rays are excellent for getting rid of any lingering odors.
5 Clean your pet’s bed regularly
Clean your pet’s bed at least once a week and vacuum in between cleanings. This will help keep your home hygienic and fresh-smelling!
You can also freshen up your pet’s beds with some pet bed sprays in between washes to keep everything fresh and clean.
