How often should my dogs bed be washed – owners guide

After a day filled with adventures, your furry friend deserves a cosy spot to rest. But with the inevitable mess that comes with pet ownership it raises the important question: how often should you wash your dog’s bed? In this guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind regular cleaning, potential health risks, handling allergies, quick cleaning tips, and the step-by-step process of washing your dog’s bed. Let’s dive in!

Why Regular Dog Bed Cleaning Matters

Your dog’s bed isn’t just a comfy spot; it’s a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, fungi, fleas, and other parasites. Washing your dog’s bed a minimum of twice a week is crucial to maintaining a healthy living environment for both your pet and your family.

Health Risks

Unchecked, microorganisms can linger on your dog’s bed for up to a year, posing potential health risks to everyone in your home. Regular cleaning not only ensures your pet’s comfort but also reduces the risk of infections that can be transmitted to both your dog and the human members of your household.

Think about all the places your dog lays on the couch, carpeting, and even your clothing. They can carry those microorganisms throughout your home, causing the spread of all kinds of diseases and pest infestations. When your dog bed goes without a good cleaning, you are putting your entire family’s health at risk, as well as those who visit your home.

Allergies and Solutions

Discovering pet allergies later on, long after you brought your new best friend home, is not uncommon. For allergy-prone households, using a washable throw or cover can be a game-changer. Heavy shedders benefit from washable covers or liners that can be laundered frequently to keep a pet’s bed clean, providing relief for both pets and allergy sufferers.

Furthermore, waterproof washable dog beds allow the pet dander and other allergens to remain on the surface of the pet bed and not get into the fibres. This will allow you to wash the bed easily without worrying about ruining it or missing allergens hiding deep down. Keeping a pet’s bed clean is important to ensure that you maintain a healthy home for everyone, including those with allergies.

How Often Should I Wash my Dogs Bed – The Cleaning Process

While there are no shortcuts to a thorough cleaning, following the proper steps can make the process more manageable. However, easy-washable dog beds are a must. In today’s world of dog beds, it’s very easy to find one of these types of beds as more and more people are learning the importance of a clean dog bed.

Preparing for Wash

Start by vacuuming the bed to remove surface dirt and hair. Spot clean with a pet-friendly stain remover and, if applicable, remove the cover for a more thorough cleaning.

Choosing the Right Detergent

Opt for a non-toxic detergent to avoid harmful residues. A mixture of pet-safe detergent and half a cup of apple cider or white vinegar can help eliminate lingering odor. Be sure that the detergent you use is pet-friendly. Remember, they have a far better sense of smell than we do, and scented detergents can cause health issues and also cause a pet to become irritable.

Setting the Right Temperature

Wash your dog’s bed, bedding, and blankets at a minimum of 60 degrees Celsius to effectively kill bacteria. Always separate pet items from the rest of your household laundry. Also, when possible, be sure to dry them in the dryer. This will further ensure that the pet’s bedding is rid of all the germs and pests.

Hand Wash or Washing Machine?

Most pet beds are machine washable but always check the label. For hand-wash-only items, soak the bed in a pet-safe detergent solution, then rinse until all soap suds are gone. Purchasing waterproof, washable dog beds and a waterproof dog mat will help you with this task. However, you want to ensure that you are washing the bed as it is recommended.

Drying Techniques

Squeeze out excess water before air drying or using a dryer for removable covers. Hanging the filling or padding to dry is essential. If weather permits, sun-drying not only freshens the fabric but also helps eliminate germs.

Again, if you were to purchase a waterproof, washable dog bed, you could ensure that the dog bed filler is kept intact and germ-free while only having to wash the exterior or cover of the bed.

Between Washes

Maintaining a clean dog bed between washes is essential. A quick vacuum and wipe with a damp cloth can prevent dirt build-up. Regular baths for your pup, especially if they enjoy rolling in the mud, can significantly contribute to a cleaner bed.

When considering how often should I wash my dog’s bed its important to consider ensuring your dog’s bed stays clean isn’t only about appearances—it’s vital for your pet’s health and well-being, as well as the health of your household. By incorporating proper cleaning into your routine, you’re not only extending the life of the bed but also creating a safe and comfortable haven for your furry companion.

Remember: for the best results, opt for waterproof, washable dog beds and easy washable dog beds, and consider using a waterproof dog mat for added protection. Happy cleaning!

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