How to Wash a Dog Bed in a Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
15.08.23 August 15, 2023 FAQs

How to Wash a Dog Bed in a Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide

As a pet owner, you know how essential it is to keep your furry friend's belongings clean and fresh. Among these items, dog beds are a haven for our beloved companions, offering comfort and security. However, over time, these cosy spots can accumulate dirt, pet hair, and odours, making regular cleaning a must. Thankfully, many modern dog beds come with removable covers or are machine machine washable, making them easy to keep clean. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of washing a dog bed in a washing machine, ensuring that your four-legged friend's bed stays clean and comfortable.   Are Dog Beds Machine Washable? Before we dive into the washing process, it's crucial to check if your dog's bed is machine washable. Look for tags or labels that indicate whether the bed is machine washable and if there are any specific guidelines you need to follow. Here at Lords & Labradors all of our Core Collection is machine washable, our Core Collection crate cushions and bumpers even have removable covers to make washing easier. Our Essentials Collection, however, is hand wash only. For more information on how to clean your Lords & Labradors Bed why not check out our L&L bedding guide? Or speak to our Customer Care team, who are happy to help.   Preparing Your Dog Bed for Washing: Remove the Cover: If your bed has a removable cover start by unzipping or unfastening the removable cover from the bed's filling. Some beds may have a separate inner liner that encases the stuffing, so make sure to remove both the outer cover and the inner liner if applicable. Shake Off and Hoover Excess Dirt: Before tossing the cover into the washing machine, give it a gentle shake outside use a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any loose fur, dirt, or debris. If your bed has an inner cushion make sure to take this out and clean underneath, crumbs and hair often end up collecting underneath there! Pre-Treat Stains: If you notice any stains or particularly stubborn spots on the cover, spot-treat them with a pet-safe stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could be harmful to your pet.     Washing Your Dog Bed: Read the Care Label: Always read and follow the care label on your dog bed's cover before washing. This label will provide specific instructions and precautions for washing and drying. Select the Right Washing Machine Settings: Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. For L&L beds we recommend a 30 degree wash on a gentle cycle. Avoid using hot water, as it may cause the fabric to shrink or fade. Always opt for a pet-safe, hypoallergenic detergent to wash your dog bed. Regular detergents may contain harsh chemicals that could irritate your pet's skin. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that may also irritate your dog. Load the Machine Properly: If you’re washing a bed cover to prevent the washing machine from becoming unbalanced during the cycle, balance the load by adding a few towels or other soft items. This will ensure that the cover is cleaned evenly.If you’re washing a bed with out a cover, they often have a removable inner cushion. If the bed is too big for your washing machine you can always try washing the two parts separately to avoid overfilling your machine. Washing The Dog Bed: Place the cover or bed in the washing machine and start the cycle. Once the cycle is complete, remove the cover promptly to prevent wrinkles and avoid over-drying.     Drying Your Dog Bed: Air Drying: For best results and to prevent any damage to your dog’s bed, we recommend air drying. If it’s a cover you can hang it outside on a clothes line or lay it flat on a clean surface indoors, we recommend putting it back on the inner cushion to prevent shrinkage. For dog beds without removable covers, we recommend either putting it outside in a clean spot to dry off or in a warm area of your house whilst it dries. Avoid using a dryer or putting it over a radiator as high heat may cause shrinkage or damage to the cover. Fluffing and Reassembling: Once your dog’s bed is dry, give it a gentle shake to fluff up the filling, it may clump together during washing so will need a bit of a shake to redistribute it evenly.  Reassembling: If your dog’s bed has a removable cover, it’s now time to reassemble, putting the cover back on the inner cushion. If the bed has zippers, ensure they are securely closed before returning it to your pup.   Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dog Bed: Regular Vacuuming: To prevent excessive dirt and hair from accumulating on your dog's bed, make a habit of vacuuming it regularly. A quick once-over with a handheld vacuum or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment can do wonders in keeping the bed clean between washes. Spot Cleaning: For minor spills or accidents on the dog bed, opt for spot cleaning instead of a full machine wash. Use a pet-safe, mild detergent mixed with water and a clean cloth to gently clean the affected area. Blot the stain rather than rubbing it, as rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric. Air Out the Bed: Whenever the weather permits, take advantage of sunny days to air out your dog's bed. The sunlight will help to naturally eliminate any odours, and fresh air circulation can reduce moisture buildup, which can cause mould or mildew over time. Using Pet-Friendly Odour Eliminators: If your dog's bed tends to hold onto odours despite regular washing, consider using pet-friendly odour eliminators. There are various options available, including sprays and powders designed specifically for pet bedding, ensuring a fresh-smelling bed for your furry friend. Invest in Quality Dog Beds: When purchasing a dog bed, consider investing in high-quality options that are designed for easy cleaning. Dog beds with removable, machine-washable covers not only simplify the cleaning process but also provide a durable and comfortable resting place for your pet. Here at L&L our luxury dog beds are made with upholstery grade fabric so you can be sure they will stand the test of time. Regularly washing your dog's bed is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your furry companion. By following this step-by-step guide on how to wash a dog bed in a washing machine, you can keep your pet's bed fresh, cosy, and odour-free. Always remember to check the care instructions, use pet-safe detergent, and avoid high heat when drying to ensure the longevity of the dog bed and the comfort of your four-legged friend. Happy washing!

By Megan Willis

Read more

As a pet owner, you know how essential it is to keep your furry friend's belongings clean and fresh. Among these items, dog beds are a haven for our beloved companions, offering comfort and security. However, over time, these cosy spots can accumulate dirt, pet hair, and odours, making regular cleaning a must. Thankfully, many modern dog beds come with removable covers or are machine machine washable, making them easy to keep clean. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of washing a dog bed in a washing machine, ensuring that your four-legged friend's bed stays clean and comfortable.

 

Are Dog Beds Machine Washable?

Before we dive into the washing process, it's crucial to check if your dog's bed is machine washable. Look for tags or labels that indicate whether the bed is machine washable and if there are any specific guidelines you need to follow. Here at Lords & Labradors all of our Core Collection is machine washable, our Core Collection crate cushions and bumpers even have removable covers to make washing easier. Our Essentials Collection, however, is hand wash only. For more information on how to clean your Lords & Labradors Bed why not check out our L&L bedding guide? Or speak to our Customer Care team, who are happy to help.

Black Labrador laid in a herringbone tweed box bed with its tongue out

 

Preparing Your Dog Bed for Washing:

  1. Remove the Cover: If your bed has a removable cover start by unzipping or unfastening the removable cover from the bed's filling. Some beds may have a separate inner liner that encases the stuffing, so make sure to remove both the outer cover and the inner liner if applicable.
  2. Shake Off and Hoover Excess Dirt: Before tossing the cover into the washing machine, give it a gentle shake outside use a lint roller or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any loose fur, dirt, or debris. If your bed has an inner cushion make sure to take this out and clean underneath, crumbs and hair often end up collecting underneath there!
  3. Pre-Treat Stains: If you notice any stains or particularly stubborn spots on the cover, spot-treat them with a pet-safe stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could be harmful to your pet.

Black and white great dane puppies sleeping in a grey and white spot dog bed 

 

Washing Your Dog Bed:

  1. Read the Care Label: Always read and follow the care label on your dog bed's cover before washing. This label will provide specific instructions and precautions for washing and drying.
  2. Select the Right Washing Machine Settings: Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold water. For L&L beds we recommend a 30 degree wash on a gentle cycle. Avoid using hot water, as it may cause the fabric to shrink or fade. Always opt for a pet-safe, hypoallergenic detergent to wash your dog bed. Regular detergents may contain harsh chemicals that could irritate your pet's skin. Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners, as they can leave a residue that may also irritate your dog.
  3. Load the Machine Properly: If you’re washing a bed cover to prevent the washing machine from becoming unbalanced during the cycle, balance the load by adding a few towels or other soft items. This will ensure that the cover is cleaned evenly.
    If you’re washing a bed with out a cover, they often have a removable inner cushion. If the bed is too big for your washing machine you can always try washing the two parts separately to avoid overfilling your machine.
  4. Washing The Dog Bed: Place the cover or bed in the washing machine and start the cycle. Once the cycle is complete, remove the cover promptly to prevent wrinkles and avoid over-drying.

Black Labrador puppy sleeping in a charcoal and cream striped dog bed 

 

Drying Your Dog Bed:

  1. Air Drying: For best results and to prevent any damage to your dog’s bed, we recommend air drying. If it’s a cover you can hang it outside on a clothes line or lay it flat on a clean surface indoors, we recommend putting it back on the inner cushion to prevent shrinkage. For dog beds without removable covers, we recommend either putting it outside in a clean spot to dry off or in a warm area of your house whilst it dries. Avoid using a dryer or putting it over a radiator as high heat may cause shrinkage or damage to the cover.
  2. Fluffing and Reassembling: Once your dog’s bed is dry, give it a gentle shake to fluff up the filling, it may clump together during washing so will need a bit of a shake to redistribute it evenly. 
  3. Reassembling: If your dog’s bed has a removable cover, it’s now time to reassemble, putting the cover back on the inner cushion. If the bed has zippers, ensure they are securely closed before returning it to your pup.

Norjack terrier curled up in a grey high wall dog bed

 

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dog Bed:

  1. Regular Vacuuming: To prevent excessive dirt and hair from accumulating on your dog's bed, make a habit of vacuuming it regularly. A quick once-over with a handheld vacuum or a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment can do wonders in keeping the bed clean between washes.
  2. Spot Cleaning: For minor spills or accidents on the dog bed, opt for spot cleaning instead of a full machine wash. Use a pet-safe, mild detergent mixed with water and a clean cloth to gently clean the affected area. Blot the stain rather than rubbing it, as rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric.
  3. Air Out the Bed: Whenever the weather permits, take advantage of sunny days to air out your dog's bed. The sunlight will help to naturally eliminate any odours, and fresh air circulation can reduce moisture buildup, which can cause mould or mildew over time.
  4. Using Pet-Friendly Odour Eliminators: If your dog's bed tends to hold onto odours despite regular washing, consider using pet-friendly odour eliminators. There are various options available, including sprays and powders designed specifically for pet bedding, ensuring a fresh-smelling bed for your furry friend.
  5. Invest in Quality Dog Beds: When purchasing a dog bed, consider investing in high-quality options that are designed for easy cleaning. Dog beds with removable, machine-washable covers not only simplify the cleaning process but also provide a durable and comfortable resting place for your pet. Here at L&L our luxury dog beds are made with upholstery grade fabric so you can be sure they will stand the test of time.

Regularly washing your dog's bed is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your furry companion. By following this step-by-step guide on how to wash a dog bed in a washing machine, you can keep your pet's bed fresh, cosy, and odour-free. Always remember to check the care instructions, use pet-safe detergent, and avoid high heat when drying to ensure the longevity of the dog bed and the comfort of your four-legged friend. Happy washing!

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    17.10.24 October 17, 2024 Health

    Diabetes in Dogs: Understanding, Recognising, and Managing the Condition

    Diabetes in dogs is a serious health condition that, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications. As responsible pet owners, it's crucial to understand the signs and symptoms of diabetes in dogs in the UK to ensure timely diagnosis and management. This comprehensive guide delves into the types of diabetes affecting dogs, the symptoms to watch out for, and the steps you can take to manage this condition effectively. Types of Diabetes in Dogs Diabetes in dogs primarily manifests in two forms: Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetes Insipidus. While both conditions share a common name, they differ significantly in their causes and effects on a dog's body. Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs Diabetes Mellitus is the more common form seen in dogs. It occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce enough insulin or when the body can't utilise the insulin properly. This type of diabetes is akin to Type 1 diabetes in humans and is prevalent among middle-aged and older dogs. Diabetes Insipidus in Dogs Canine Diabetes Insipidus, also known as "water diabetes," is a rarer condition. It arises when the kidneys can't conserve water due to a hormonal imbalance involving antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Diabetes Insipidus in dogs leads to excessive urination and thirst, but unlike Diabetes Mellitus, it doesn't affect blood sugar levels. Symptoms of Diabetes in Dogs in the UK Recognising the signs of diabetes in dogs is vital for early intervention. Symptoms may vary depending on the type of diabetes but commonly include: Increased Thirst and Urination: One of the hallmark symptoms of both Diabetes Mellitus and Insipidus in dogs is polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (frequent urination). Weight Loss: Despite an increased appetite, dogs may lose weight due to the body's inability to utilise nutrients properly. Lethargy: A noticeable decrease in energy levels and reluctance to exercise. Changes in Appetite: Fluctuations ranging from increased hunger to a complete lack of appetite. Vision Problems: Development of cataracts leading to cloudy eyes and potential blindness, particularly in Diabetes Mellitus. Symptoms Specific to Diabetes Insipidus in Dogs For diabetes insipidus dogs, additional symptoms may include: Dehydration: Despite drinking large amounts of water, dogs may become dehydrated due to excessive water loss. Electrolyte Imbalance: This can lead to muscle weakness and other systemic issues. Diabetes in Puppies While diabetes is more common in adult dogs, diabetes insipidus in puppies can occur, albeit rarely. Puppies showing signs of excessive thirst and urination should be evaluated promptly. Early detection is crucial to manage the condition effectively and ensure normal growth and development. Diagnosing Diabetes in Dogs If you observe any symptoms of diabetes in dogs in the UK, it's essential to consult your veterinarian. Diagnosis typically involves: Blood Tests: To measure glucose levels and assess organ function. Urinalysis: To detect glucose or ketones in the urine. Water Deprivation Test: Specifically for diagnosing Diabetes Insipidus, this test evaluates the kidneys' ability to concentrate urine. Treatment and Management of Diabetes in Dogs Diabetes Mellitus Treatment Managing Diabetes Mellitus often requires: Insulin Therapy: Regular insulin injections to regulate blood sugar levels. Dietary Changes: High-fibre, low-sugar foods to help control glucose levels. Regular Monitoring: Frequent vet visits to monitor glucose levels and adjust treatment as needed. Managing Diabetes Insipidus in Dogs For canine diabetes insipidus, treatment may include: Medication: Administration of synthetic ADH to help the kidneys conserve water. Fluid Management: Ensuring constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. Lifestyle Adjustments Consistent Routine: Maintaining a regular feeding and exercise schedule to help stabilise blood sugar levels. Weight Management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight to improve their response to insulin. Monitoring: Keeping a close eye on your dog's symptoms and reporting any changes to your vet promptly. Conclusion Understanding diabetes in dogs is crucial for early detection and effective management. Whether dealing with Diabetes Mellitus or diabetes insipidus in dogs, being vigilant about any diabetes symptoms can make a significant difference in your pet's quality of life. If you notice any signs of diabetes in your dog, consult your veterinarian promptly. With proper care, many dogs with diabetes lead happy, active lives. For more information on managing your pet's health and finding essential pet care products, visit Lords & Labradors, your trusted online luxury pet department store.

    By Megan Willis

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