How to Clean and Deodorise Pet Beds
A pet bed can hold the comfort of home and the scent of your furry friend all at once. Over time, though, that comfort begins to fade beneath dust, fur, and lingering smells.
With a thoughtful routine, you can restore freshness and make your pet’s favourite spot soft, clean, and welcoming again.
Start with a Thorough Pre-Clean
Before washing, take the bed outdoors and give it a good shake to loosen hair and dirt. A firm patting helps release trapped dust, while a brush or lint roller clears away the finer hairs that cling to seams.
This first step reduces what ends up in your washing machine and already lightens the odour.
Next, remove all covers, zips, or liners. If the bed’s inner cushion is small enough, tap it outside to dislodge hidden grit. A vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment is perfect for corners that collect debris.
Furthermore, check any washing instructions, as foam fillings and certain fabrics require gentle handling. Preparing well at this stage prevents damage and ensures the cleaning to come is thorough.
A short airing on a breezy day helps too. It naturally refreshes the fibres, which makes washing more effective later.
Choose Pet-Safe Cleaning Products
The detergent you use matters as much as the method.
Many everyday cleaners contain harsh agents that can irritate paws and sensitive skin. Instead, pick mild, non-toxic formulas specifically made for pet fabrics.
Plant-based detergents, fragrance-free soaps, and eco-friendly powders are ideal options that clean well without leaving chemical residue.
For stubborn stains or deep odours, enzyme cleaners work wonders. They break down organic particles such as drool or urine naturally rather than masking them with perfume.
Always read the label to confirm the product is pet-safe and free of ammonia or bleach.
If you prefer something simple, baking soda and white vinegar form a gentle yet powerful duo. A tablespoon of baking soda in the wash cycle boosts freshness, while a cup of vinegar in the rinse helps neutralise lingering smells.
Together, they soften fabrics and leave the bed clean without heavy scents.
And for homes where time is tight, professional cleaners can lend a hand. Adding an occasional deep clean to your regular routine doesn’t dramatically raise your cleaning costs, but it gives you reassurance that every fibre is spotless and safe for your companion.
Wash and Dry with Care
Once prepped, it’s time for a proper clean. If the cover is removable, wash it separately on a warm setting, around 40°C, to kill bacteria without harming delicate stitching.
Use a gentle cycle and a pet-friendly detergent, then rinse twice to ensure no residue remains.
While the cover washes, focus on the inner cushion. Vacuum any remaining hair, then spot-clean marks with a soft brush dipped in a mix of baking soda and water.
Gently scrub in circular motions, dab away the paste with a damp cloth, and allow the cushion to air for a few minutes. For foam fillings, avoid soaking because trapped moisture encourages mould.
A light mist from a fabric steamer can disinfect effectively without oversaturation. Adding a small amount of white vinegar to the rinse water helps remove unseen oils and loosens stubborn dirt trapped deep inside thicker fabrics for an even cleaner result.
Moreover, drying should never be rushed. Sunlight is nature’s finest disinfectant, and an afternoon breeze helps remove moisture evenly. If the weather isn’t kind, a tumble dryer on low heat works well. Just check the care label first.
Add a few clean towels to absorb excess water and prevent clumping. Above all, make sure every layer is completely dry before reassembling. Even slight dampness can undo all your hard work.
Deodorise Naturally and Effectively
Clean doesn’t always mean fresh, so the next step is deodorising.
Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda across the bed once it’s dry, leave it for at least fifteen minutes, then vacuum it away. This simple ritual absorbs odours instead of covering them.
For a deeper refresh, make a natural deodorising spray. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bottle, mist lightly over the bed, and allow it to dry. The vinegar smell soon fades, taking stale scents with it.
If you enjoy a touch of fragrance, add a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil. Both are safe for pets when properly diluted and lend a calming scent.
When the weather allows, let the bed bask in sunlight for a few hours. The warmth not only dries any moisture but also naturally kills bacteria. Combined with your chosen deodorising method, it keeps the fabric bright, airy, and fresh.
Maintain Freshness Between Washes
Freshness lasts longer when small habits become part of daily life.
After your pet rises, give the bed a gentle shake to lift fur and restore airflow. Once a week, a light sprinkle of baking soda, followed by vacuuming, keeps fibres dry and odour-free without overwashing them.
If the weather is damp, position the bed near a sunny window or run a dehumidifier for a short while. Circulating air helps prevent that faint, stale scent that builds in fabric over time.
You can also mist a cloth with diluted vinegar and wipe the outer layer to remove oils that attract dust and hair.
For pets that love muddy adventures, brushing paws before they settle down makes a world of difference. It stops grit from grinding into the fabric and keeps their resting spot soft underfoot.
During warmer months, adding a washable cooling mat can help regulate temperature and reduce sweat build-up. In winter, a removable fleece layer adds warmth while protecting the fabric beneath from daily wear.
Together, these quiet habits preserve comfort, reduce wear, and make every wash easier when it finally comes.
Conclusion
Clean bedding makes daily life smoother for both you and your pet. It keeps their space fresh, prevents stubborn odours, and helps your home feel well cared for without extra effort.
A little consistency is all it takes. With regular cleaning and a bit of attention to detail, your pet’s bed stays inviting and your home remains a pleasant place to share.