Washing Pet Beds
by Marissa Zumbo, July 2021
Let’s face it...We’re closer to our pets than we are to most members of our family. But many people don’t know how to care for their fluffy friends' bedding. Whether their bed has a cover or not, we can help you clean it the right way and keep your buddy comfortable for cat naps or doggie dozing.
Most pet beds will be machine washable, but make sure to check the label for instructions. If it indicates that the removable cover or entire bed itself is machine washable, follow these steps:
1. Vacuum or lint roller as much hair and fur off the bed as possible. This is critical.
2. Pre-treat any visible stains with a stain remover free of any harsh chemicals.
3. Set the washer to the highest recommended temperature setting for your particular bed. If the label doesn’t mention one, opt for at least 140° degrees (“Hot”).
4. Choose a detergent that’s free & clear, and wash the bed on delicate.
5. Include other dog towels or blankets in the same washer if needed. Avoid washing the bed with your clothes or linens.
6. Do an extra rinse cycle to make sure all the detergent washes off the bed.
7. Dry on low heat or outside on a sunny day. Don’t include any dryer sheets in the dryer as they can be harmful to pets.
It’s that dog gone simple!
If your particular bed recommends hand washing, you can still follow similar instructions. Wash the bed in warm water and a gentle detergent in your bathtub. Let sit for 15 minutes, rub out any problem areas, and then rinse completely with cold water. Dry on low heat or air dry.
If the bed is husky-sized, washing it in a large industrial machine might be necessary. We’ve got several different sizes to choose from at Big Waves. Remember, your furry friend uses their bed everyday, so you should be washing it every one to two weeks. It’s important to learn what works for you. And for fiddo!
SIGN UP FOR BLOG POSTS TO BE DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR EMAIL!