Your dog’s bed is more than just a place to sleep, it’s their little sanctuary. It’s where they curl up after a big day, rest their paws, and feel safe and comfortable.

Just like our own bedding, your dog’s bed needs regular care to keep it fresh, hygienic, and inviting. Over time, it can collect fur, dirt, oils, allergens, and everyday mess that you may not even notice.

So, how often should you wash your dog’s bed? And how can you clean it properly while protecting the quality of the materials?

Most pet experts recommend washing your dog’s bed every 1–2 weeks, with weekly washing being ideal for many dogs especially those who love exploring the outdoors.

A little regular care goes a long way in creating a healthier, happier space for your four-legged friend.

Why Cleaning Your Dog's Bed Matters

Your dog’s bed is a place they return to every day, which means it naturally collects everything they bring along from loose fur and outdoor dirt to saliva, skin cells, oils from their coat, pollen, and dust.

The CDC recommends cleaning pet bedding in the same way you care for your own bedding (around once a week) to help reduce the spread of germs and parasites between pets and people.

Over time, this buildup can contribute to skin irritation, hot spots, unpleasant odours, or aggravated allergies in sensitive dogs.

Warm, damp bedding can also create an environment where bacteria and yeast thrive, while fleas and ticks can hide within fibres if bedding isn’t maintained regularly.

How Often Should You Actually Wash It?

There’s no single rule that works for every dog, it depends on their lifestyle, coat, and daily adventures. Here’s a simple guide:

Every 1–2 weeks:
A good baseline for most dogs to keep their sleeping space fresh and comfortable.

Wash weekly if your dog:

• Spends lots of time outdoors

• Sheds heavily or has an oily coat

• Experiences allergies or skin sensitivities

• Loves rolling in muddy puddles or unexpected smells

Every 2–3 weeks:
May be suitable for clean indoor dogs with short coats and minimal shedding — but avoid leaving it too long, as odours and buildup can develop quickly.

Between washes:
A quick refresh helps keep their bed looking and feeling its best. Vacuum regularly to remove loose fur and dirt, and spot-clean muddy paws or spills as needed.

Step-by-Step: How to Wash a Dog Bed Safely

Your dog’s bed is their special place so caring for it properly helps keep it fresh, comfortable, and ready for all those well-earned naps.

Before getting started, always check the care instructions for your dog’s bed. Different materials require different care, and following the recommended steps will help protect the quality, comfort, and longevity of your bed.

1. Prepare the Bed

Start by removing any covers, blankets, or liners if possible.

Our Indigenous Artist Therapeutic Dog Beds feature removable, washable covers, making regular cleaning simple while helping preserve the beauty of the artwork. Before washing, unzip and remove the cover, then give it a shake outdoors or use a vacuum to remove loose fur, dirt, and everyday debris.

This simple step helps your washing machine work more effectively and prevents excess fur from building up during the wash.

2. Wash with Care

For washable covers, use a gentle cycle with warm water (or follow the temperature instructions on the care label).

Choose a mild, pet-friendly detergent such as our Natural Detergent and Reproofer and avoid harsh chemicals or fabric softeners, as these can leave residues that may irritate your dog’s skin.

For an extra fresh finish, add a small amount of white vinegar during the rinse cycle a simple, natural way to help freshen fabrics without leaving strong fragrances behind.

OBT Tip: If your dog’s bed has had a particularly muddy adventure, wash the cover separately from your everyday laundry.

3. Dry Completely Before Use

A fresh, clean bed isn’t complete until it’s completely dry.

Air-drying in the sunshine is a great option where possible, helping naturally freshen fabrics while protecting the materials. If using a dryer, choose a low or gentle setting that suits the care instructions.

Always ensure the cover is completely dry before putting it back on the bed. Damp bedding can encourage mould, bacteria, and unwanted odours.

Caring for Non-Machine Washable Beds

Some materials require a little extra care. Our Waxed Canvas Collars, Leads, and accessories are designed for durability and everyday adventures, but they are not machine washable. Instead, gently spot-clean the surface with a damp cloth and allow the material to air dry naturally. You can read in more detail how to look after your Waxed Canvas Accessories here. 

For non-washable dog beds, regular maintenance can still help keep them fresh. Vacuum regularly to remove fur and dirt, spot-clean marks with a pet-safe cleaner, and allow the bed to air out when needed.

A few extra care tips:

• Rotate between multiple beds so your dog always has a fresh place to rest

• Wash removable covers and blankets regularly

• Give beds time to air outdoors to help keep them feeling fresh

• Follow care instructions to help your dog’s favourite bed last longer

With a little regular care, your dog’s bed can remain a comfortable, calming space — honouring the special place it holds in their everyday life.

The Smart Choice for Easier Dog Care

Vets frequently mention that contaminated bedding is the cause of widespread problems such as itchiness or ear infections.

Keeping your dog clean also helps keep their bed cleaner for longer.

Outbacktails’ Natural Dog Wash and Conditioner is also soft, powerful, and ideal for use when the dogs are in the house tracking dirt, which should be used during baths to minimize dirt on the bed in the first place.

The complete Natural Grooming Line is easy to use in daily care, and all the formulas are inspired by the Australian landscape, which results in soft coats and happy skin. Owners with cleaner dogs, in most cases, have to do less deep cleaning of the beds.

Your dog’s bed is more than just a place to sleep — it’s where they rest after adventures, find comfort after a big day, and feel safe at home. With a little regular care and attention, you can help keep their favourite spot fresh, clean, and cosy for years to come.