Tips for Cleaning Your Dog Bed

A Clean Place to Take a Snooze

You change your sheets and pillowcases regularly. Provide that same courtesy to your dog when she lays her head down to sleep. Considering the debris, dust, and pollen that can collect on your dog's fur as she goes from outdoors to indoors, it's important to pay attention to her dog bed - it's essential to keep it clean! We've got the low-down on making sure your dog bed is spotless.

Step-by-Step to a Clean Night's Sleep

Every day, you should remove bedding and blankets from your dog bed. Take them outside and give them a good shake. This will release most of the dander and pollen, and will give the material a chance to breathe and freshen. While you've got the bedding off the dog bed, give it a look to make sure there's not any caked-on dirt or creepy-crawlies; bedding can be a key place for fleas and other unwanted critters to gather.

Do Your Washing

Once a week, wash the bedding and blankets from your dog bed in the washing machine. Make sure to wash the bedding on hot to rinse away germs, fleas, or other unwanted material. Always use a mild detergent so your dog won't suffer from an allergic reaction.

The Bed Itself

While you're waiting for the blankets and other bedding to dry, inspect the dog bed itself: Keep an eye out for soiled dirt, and use a wet rag and a mild cleaning solution to address any problem spots. Depending on your type of dog bed, you might even be able to throw the bed itself in the wash!

Keep Your Eyes Peeled

Most importantly, pay attention to your dog's behavior, concerning her dog bed. Is she suddenly avoiding her favorite resting spot? Is she scratching herself more often than normal? With proper care, a dog bed can be a respite from the world, but it can also be a breeding ground for fleas and dirt. If you notice these kinds of behavior changes, it's time to give the dog bed a good inspection to make sure it's not dirty.