8 Best Washable Dog Beds (Review & Buying Guide) in 2018

Every dog owner wants their pet to have a comfortable space in the house that they can call their own. A space where they can sleep and rest away from the hustle and bustle of family life and from prying fingers where there are children in the household. A dog’s bed is a great idea and a washable one is even better, but with so many to choose from where do you start? Our panel of pet experts and dog lovers have creating this list of the 8 best washable dog beds to get you started.

Best Washable Dog Beds Buying Guide & FAQ

There are many factors to consider when buying the perfect washable dog bed for your four-legged friend. Your dogs size and weight play a part in the decision, as does their preferred sleeping position and the amount of space you have for the bed. In this part of the guide we explore other factors that determine the right bed for your dog and look at why you should consider a washable bed over other types of dog beds.

Why Use a Washable Dog Bed?

A dog’s bed gets dirty, smelly, and full of loose hair over time. Combined with moisture from where your dog cleans themselves and sweat, this concoction can develop into bacterial growth over time, as well as damp and mildew. Not only does this make for an unpleasant smell and discourage your dog from sleeping in the bed, but it could make the whole house unpleasant and even make your dog ill over time.

Washable beds reduce all these risks, making it easier to keep your house and pet smelling fresh and clean. Washable beds also reduce the risk of allergies from dust mites and help to keep flea infestations under control, particularly if you choose a bed that can be washed in its entirety and at higher temperatures.

Features To Look For

When choosing the best washable dog bed for your canine companion, you of course must take their individual preferences into account. However, there are some key features look for that affect all dogs. Among the features to look for are:

• Machine washing

When you look at a washable bed, check whether it is machine washable and at what temperature. Some beds can only be washed at low temperatures, so may not be suitable for dogs with a tendency to roll in the mud. Also check whether it is the cover or the whole bed that can be washed. If you have an older dog that is experiencing bladder issues or a puppy still house training a fully washable bed may be an advantage.

• Dryer safe

You want your dog to be able to have their bed back as soon as possible, so a bed that can go in the dryer is a distinct advantage. Always check the temperature settings before placing the bed in the dryer.

• Filling type

There are a wide range of fillings available including orthopedic memory foam bases. The type of filling you choose may be dependent on the age of your dog, but you should always check that it is safety tested, allergen free, and durable. You don’t want a bed where the base moves and clumps as your dog is trying to get comfortable.

• Non-slip base

This is especially important if you are placing the bed on a tiled or wood floor. The last thing you want is for the bed to move as your dog tries to get in or out of it. They could suffer an injury or simply refuse to use it if they do not feel safe. If the base is waterproof this is an additional bonus as it reduces the risk of the bed becoming damp from spills.

• Durable covers

As well as being comfortable, you need to ensure that the cover of the bed is durable and can withstand daily use by your dog, as well as regular cleaning. Check for strong stitching and seams, and ensure that the zip, if included, is not on the sleeping area.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Bed Clean

While the key to a clean bed is to have a washable bed, there are other steps you can take to help keep your dog’s bed clean and smelling fresh.

1. Keep your dog clean and groomed. This is good for your dog’s coat as well as their bed. As well as regular grooming, check their paws after you have been out for a walk. Ensure you dry your dog thoroughly before they go back to their bed to stop them from becoming ill and reducing the risk of damp, mold, and mildew forming in the bed.
2. Vacuum the bed. This reduces the buildup of hair from your dog and tackles dried mud and dirt before it becomes ground in. If you can’t vacuum the bed easily, take it outside and give it a good shake on a regular basis.
3. Clean spills and spot clean. If you notice a spill or dirt on the bed, then clean this as soon as you can to avoid it soaking into the filling. Doing this makes it much easier to keep smells and bacteria under control, especially in beds where the filling is not machine washable.
4. Wash the bed on a regular basis. How often may depend greatly on your dog. If you have a bed with a removable cover, then it is recommended that these are washed every one to two weeks. If the whole bed can be washed, then once a month is the general recommendation. Ensure that you follow the manufacturers guidance when washing the bed and avoid using harsh chemicals that could leave residue on the bed.
5. Dry thoroughly

It is essential that you dry your dog’s bed thoroughly before they use it. Damp beds are a breeding ground for bacteria, as well as being uncomfortable for your dog to sleep on. Even if you can tumble dry the bed it is a good idea to leave it in an airy space for a short while to ensure it is fully dried before returning it to your dog.

Following these steps, and you buying guide will ensure that you choose the right bed for your dog, and that it remains clean and comfortable for a long time to come.

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Sources

1. The Guide to Washing a Dog Bed, PetMD
2. Choosing the Right Bed for Your Dog, RSPCA
3. How to Clean a Dog Bed, wikiHow