Keeping Pet Beds Clean Naturally

Why Regular Bed Cleaning Matters

Pet beds accumulate skin cells, saliva, oils, fur, and dirt. Within a week, they harbor dust mites, bacteria, and potentially flea eggs. Regular cleaning reduces allergens, prevents flea populations, and controls odors.

Washing Schedule

• Weekly: Remove and wash the bed cover or liner if the bed has one.
• Bi-weekly: Wash the entire bed (insert and cover) if it fits in your machine, or spot clean and deodorize the insert.
• Monthly: Deep clean the full bed, inspect for wear, and treat with a deodorizer.

How to Machine Wash a Pet Bed

1. Remove cover and shake outside to dislodge fur.
2. Pre-treat stains with baking soda paste, sit 15 minutes.
3. Wash hot (kills dust mites). Use unscented, plant-based detergent.
4. Add 1/2 cup white vinegar to the rinse cycle as deodorizer and softener.
5. Dry on medium heat or air dry in sunlight (UV kills bacteria).

Hand Washing and Spot Cleaning

For beds too large for machines or without removable covers:

1. Vacuum thoroughly on both sides.
2. Fill tub with warm water and 2 tbsp unscented castile soap.
3. Submerge and agitate by hand, squeezing water through filling.
4. Rinse with 1/2 cup vinegar until water runs clear.
5. Squeeze (don’t wring) excess water. Dry flat in sun or near a fan.

Natural Deodorizing Between Washes

1. Move bed to a ventilated area.
2. Sprinkle generous baking soda over the surface.
3. Sit 30-60 minutes to absorb oils and neutralize odors.
4. Vacuum thoroughly with multiple passes.

Safe for all pets — no fragrances, essential oils, or chemicals.

Dealing with Fleas in Bedding

1. Wash immediately in hottest water tolerated. Heat above 130F kills fleas at all stages.
2. Dry on highest setting for 30+ minutes.
3. Vacuum the surrounding area including carpet and baseboards.
4. Repeat wash in 3-4 days to catch surviving eggs.
5. Treat your pet simultaneously — cleaning the bed alone won’t solve an infestation.

Choosing a Bed That Is Easy to Clean

• Removable, machine-washable cover. Most important feature.
• Tightly woven outer fabric. Traps less fur, easier to vacuum.
• Waterproof inner liner. Keeps moisture and odors out of the filling.
• Synthetic filling over foam. Dries faster, tolerates repeated washing. Memory foam retains moisture and risks mold.