Wash Your Dog’s Bed Even When It’s Not Machine Washable!
How do you wash a dog bed that is not machine washable? Washing a dog bed that is not machine washable can be a bit challenging, but it is necessary to keep your furry friend’s bed clean and free of dirt, dust, and bacteria. Regular cleaning of your dog’s bed can help prevent odour and ensure your dog’s good health. In this article, we will discuss various methods and products that can be used to clean a dog bed that is not machine washable.
Method 1: Hand Wash
Hand washing is the most popular and easiest way to clean a dog bed that is not machine washable. The process is straightforward, and you can use household items to do it. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Hair
The first step is to remove any loose dirt and hair from the bed. You can use a brush, vacuum cleaner, or lint roller to remove the dirt and hair. Make sure to remove as much dirt and hair as possible before proceeding to the next step.
Before you begin the cleaning process, it’s essential to remove any loose dirt and hair from your dog’s bed. This step will make the cleaning process more effective and prevent dirt and hair from getting stuck in the washing machine or clogging up the drain.
You can remove loose dirt and hair using a vacuum cleaner, a lint roller, or a brush. Here are some tips for each method:
- Vacuum Cleaner
Using a vacuum cleaner with a handheld attachment is an effective way to remove loose dirt and hair from your dog’s bed. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by removing any large clumps of dirt or hair by hand.
- Use the vacuum cleaner to suck up any remaining dirt and hair from the surface of the bed. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where dirt and hair can get trapped.
- If your vacuum cleaner has a brush attachment, use it to loosen any dirt and hair that’s stuck in the fabric.
- Empty the vacuum cleaner’s canister or change the bag to prevent any dirt or hair from escaping.
- Lint Roller
If your dog’s bed is covered in hair but doesn’t have much loose dirt, a lint roller can be a quick and easy way to remove it. Here’s how to use a lint roller:
- Start by removing any large clumps of hair by hand.
- Use the lint roller to roll over the surface of the bed, picking up any remaining hair. Press firmly and roll in different directions to ensure you pick up all the hair.
- If the lint roller becomes full of hair, peel off the used sheet and continue rolling until you’ve covered the entire surface of the bed.
- Brush
If your dog’s bed is covered in loose dirt, a brush can be an effective tool for removing it. Here’s how to use a brush:
- Start by removing any large clumps of dirt by hand.
- Use a stiff-bristled brush to brush the surface of the bed, loosening any dirt that’s stuck in the fabric.
- If the bed has any seams or crevices, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt that’s trapped.
- Once you’ve brushed the entire surface of the bed, use a vacuum cleaner or lint roller to pick up any loose dirt that’s been loosened by the brush.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove loose dirt and hair from your dog’s bed before beginning the cleaning process. This will help to make the cleaning process more effective and prevent any dirt or hair from getting stuck in your washing machine or clogging up your drain.
Step 2: Soak the Bed in Water
Fill a large tub or sink with warm water and add a gentle detergent. Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals that can damage the fabric or irritate your dog’s skin. Soak the bed in the water for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how dirty it is.
Step 3: Scrub the Bed
After soaking the bed, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the bed gently. Pay special attention to areas that are heavily soiled or stained. You can also use a toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Step 4: Rinse the Bed
Once you have finished scrubbing the bed, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to remove all the soap residue to prevent skin irritation and to keep the bed smelling fresh.
Step 5: Dry the Bed
After rinsing the bed, squeeze out the excess water and hang it to dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid drying the bed under direct sunlight or using a dryer as the heat can damage the fabric.
Method 2: Spot Clean
If your dog’s bed has small stains or spots, you can spot clean it instead of washing the entire bed. Spot cleaning is quicker and easier than hand washing, and you can do it in a few simple steps:
Spot cleaning is an important step in the process of cleaning a non-machine washable dog bed. It involves cleaning specific areas of the bed that are dirty or stained, rather than cleaning the entire bed. Spot cleaning can be done using a variety of methods, depending on the type of stain or dirt that needs to be removed.
Here are some methods for spot cleaning your dog’s bed:
- Baking Soda
Baking soda is an effective and natural way to remove odours from your dog’s bed. Here’s how to use baking soda for spot cleaning:
- Sprinkle baking soda over the stained or dirty area of the bed.
- Let the baking soda sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the odour.
- Use a vacuum cleaner or a lint roller to remove the baking soda and any loose dirt or hair.
- White Vinegar
White vinegar is another natural cleaning agent that can be used to remove stains and odors from your dog’s bed. Here’s how to use white vinegar for spot cleaning:
- Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the stained or dirty area of the bed with the vinegar solution.
- Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate the stain.
- Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful stain remover that can be used to remove tough stains from your dog’s bed. Here’s how to use hydrogen peroxide for spot cleaning:
- Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water in a spray bottle.
- Spray the stained or dirty area of the bed with the solution.
- Let the solution sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate the stain.
- Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Enzymatic Cleaner
Enzymatic cleaners are specifically designed to break down and remove stains caused by urine, feces, vomit, and other bodily fluids. Here’s how to use an enzymatic cleaner for spot cleaning:
- Apply the enzymatic cleaner to the stained area of the bed.
- Let the cleaner sit for the amount of time specified on the label.
- Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
By using one of these methods for spot cleaning, you can effectively remove stains, odors, and dirt from your dog’s bed without having to wash the entire bed. It’s important to spot clean your dog’s bed regularly to maintain its cleanliness and prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.
Step 1: Blot the Stain
If the stain is fresh, blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Do not rub the stain as it can spread and make the stain worse.
Step 2: Apply a Stain Remover
Apply a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water to the stain. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to break down the stain.
Step 3: Scrub the Stain
After the solution has sat for a few minutes, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the stain gently. Be careful not to damage the fabric or irritate your dog’s skin.
If you have a stubborn stain on your dog’s bed, you may need to scrub it to remove it completely. Scrubbing the stain can help to break it down and lift it from the fabric. Here’s how to scrub a stain from your dog’s bed:
- Apply Stain Remover
Before you begin scrubbing, apply a stain remover to the affected area. There are many pet-specific stain removers available on the market that are designed to break down and lift stains from pet bedding and fabrics. Apply the stain remover to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the fabric.
Applying a stain remover is an important step in removing stubborn stains from your dog’s bed. Pet-specific stain removers are formulated to break down and lift stains from pet bedding and fabrics without causing any harm to your dog or the bed. Here are the steps to apply a stain remover to your dog’s bed:
- Choose a Pet-Safe Stain Remover
When selecting a stain remover, it’s important to choose one that is safe for pets. Pet-specific stain removers are designed to be gentle on your dog’s skin and health, while still being effective at removing stains and odours. Look for products that are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances, and that are specifically labelled as pet-safe.
- Test the Stain Remover
Before applying the stain remover to your dog’s bed, it’s a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. This will help you ensure that the product won’t damage or discolour the fabric. Apply a small amount of the stain remover to an area of the bed that is not visible, such as under a cushion or on the underside of the bed. Wait a few minutes, then rinse the area with water and blot dry. If there is no damage or discoloration, you can safely proceed with applying the stain remover to the stain.
- Apply the Stain Remover
Apply a generous amount of the pet-safe stain remover to the affected area of the bed. Use a cloth or a soft-bristled brush to work the stain remover into the fabric. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much product to use and how long to let it sit.
- Let it Sit
After applying the stain remover, let it sit for the recommended amount of time. This will give the product time to penetrate the fabric and break down the stain. Be sure to keep your dog away from the bed while the stain remover is working, as some products can be harmful if ingested.
- Rinse the Area
Once the stain remover has had time to work, rinse the area thoroughly with water. Use a hose or a sink to rinse the area until the water runs clear and there are no suds or residue left on the fabric. Be sure to rinse the area well, as any leftover stain remover can attract dirt and cause the stain to reappear.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively apply a pet-safe stain remover to your dog’s bed. Remember to always choose pet-safe products and to test them on a small area before applying them to the entire bed.
- Scrub the Stain
After the stain remover has had time to work, it’s time to start scrubbing the stain. Use a soft-bristled brush or a clean cloth to gently scrub the affected area. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the fabric.
- Rinse with Water
Once you have scrubbed the stain, rinse the area with water to remove any leftover stain remover or dirt. You can use a hose or a sink to rinse the area thoroughly. Be sure to rinse the area until the water runs clear and there are no suds or residue left on the fabric.
- Blot the Area
After rinsing, use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the area and remove any excess moisture. Be sure to blot gently to avoid damaging the fabric. You can also use a fan or open window to help the area dry more quickly.
By following these steps, you can effectively scrub a stubborn stain from your dog’s bed. However, it’s important to note that scrubbing should only be done as a last resort, as it can damage the fabric of the bed. In many cases, spot cleaning with a pet-specific stain remover and gentle scrubbing can be enough to remove most stains from your dog’s bed.
Step 4: Rinse the Stain
Once you have finished scrubbing the stain, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to remove all the soap residue to prevent skin irritation and to keep the bed smelling fresh.
Step 5: Dry the Spot
After rinsing the spot, blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove excess water. Hang the bed to dry in a well-ventilated area.
Best Products for Cleaning a Dog Bed
There are many products available in the market that can be used to clean a dog bed. Here are some of the best products you can use:
- Pet-Safe Detergent
Pet-safe detergent is specially formulated to clean pet bedding, blankets, and other fabrics. It is gentle on your dog’s skin and does not contain any harsh chemicals that can irritate your dog’s skin or cause allergies. Pet-safe detergents are usually made with natural ingredients such as plant-based enzymes and essential oils, which help to break down dirt and stains while leaving a fresh, clean scent.
Some popular pet-safe detergents include:
- Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent
- Puracy Natural Laundry Detergent
- ECOS Pet Laundry Detergent
- Stain Remover
Stain removers are effective in removing tough stains and odors from your dog’s bed. They are designed to break down and dissolve stubborn stains caused by urine, feces, vomit, and other bodily fluids. Most stain removers are safe to use on various fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and nylon.
Some popular stain removers for pet beds include:
- Rocco & Roxie Professional Strength Stain & Odor Eliminator
- Nature’s Miracle Stain and Odor Remover
- Simple Solution Extreme Stain and Odor Remover
- Fabric Freshener
Fabric fresheners are great for neutralizing odours and keeping your dog’s bed smelling fresh between washes. They come in a variety of scents and are safe to use on all types of fabrics.
Some popular fabric fresheners for pet beds include:
- Febreze Fabric Refresher
- Lysol Fabric Mist
- Zero Odor Fabric Refresher
- Carpet Cleaner
If your dog’s bed is placed on a carpeted area, you may want to consider using a carpet cleaner to remove any dirt or stains that may have seeped into the carpet fibers. Carpet cleaners are designed to lift and remove dirt, stains, and odours from carpets and rugs.
Some popular carpet cleaners for pet owners include:
- Bissell Pet Stain Eraser
- Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet Upright Carpet Cleaner
- Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner
Conclusion
Cleaning your dog’s bed is an important part of maintaining their good health and hygiene. While machine-washable beds are easy to clean, non-machine washable beds require a bit more effort. By following the methods and using the products outlined in this article, you can ensure that your dog’s bed is clean, fresh, and free of harmful bacteria and allergens. Remember to always use pet-safe products and avoid harsh chemicals that can irritate your dog’s skin.
Cleaning a non-machine washable dog bed may seem like a daunting task, but with the right methods and products, it can be done effectively and efficiently. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your dog’s bed is clean, fresh-smelling, and free from dirt, hair, and stains.
When cleaning your dog’s bed, it’s important to use pet-safe products that won’t harm your dog’s skin or health. Pet-specific detergents and enzymatic cleaners are designed to clean pet bedding and fabrics without causing any harm to your dog. These products are also effective at removing stubborn stains and odors caused by bodily fluids.
Removing loose dirt and hair from your dog’s bed before cleaning is also an essential step. This will make the cleaning process more effective and prevent dirt and hair from getting stuck in your washing machine or clogging up your drain.
Spot cleaning is another important step in the process of cleaning a non-machine washable dog bed. This involves cleaning specific areas of the bed that are dirty or stained, rather than cleaning the entire bed. Baking soda, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and enzymatic cleaners are all effective methods for spot cleaning.
In conclusion, keeping your dog’s bed clean is important for their health and well-being. A dirty bed can harbor bacteria, allergens, and pests that can harm your dog’s health. By following the methods and using the products outlined above, you can ensure that your dog’s bed is clean, fresh-smelling, and free from dirt, hair, and stains. A clean bed will also provide your dog with a comfortable and safe place to rest, which is essential for their overall happiness and well-being.
