Can Dog Beds Go in the Dryer? Safety Tips for Washing, Drying, and Preventing Clumping

Can dog beds go in the dryer? Sometimes they can. But not always.

A warm spin might sound like the fastest fix, but it can do more harm than good. High heat can shrink covers, melt foam, or leave the stuffing clumped into one sad corner.

Before tossing your dog’s favorite nap spot into the dryer, take a few minutes to learn the right way to clean it. With a little care, you can keep it soft, fresh, and safe for your pup.

Essential Preparation: Steps Before Washing Any Dog Bed

Cleaning a dog bed isn’t just about soap and water. It’s about knowing what you’re working with. Whether your pet bed is filled with foam, fiber, or fluff, a little prep makes all the difference.

Before asking “can you wash a dog bed with stuffing in the washer?”, start here.

The Golden Rule: Always Check the Care Label

The label tells you everything. It’s like a secret map to your dog bed’s survival.

Look for washing symbols or written directions. These small details matter. Check what kind of stuffing your bed has too:

• Fiberfill is light and cozy but clumps fast when overheated.
• Shredded foam holds shape better but hates the dryer.
• Solid foam is the most fragile. It can warp or melt in heat.

If the label says hand-wash only or no dryer, trust it. A few extra minutes of air drying can save you from buying a new bed.

Removing Excess Hair and Loose Debris

Dog hair has a sneaky way of clinging to everything. Before washing, grab a vacuum or lint roller and go over the entire bed.

You can also take it outside for a few good shakes. This keeps pet hair and dirt from clogging your washer. For deep-cleaning days, use a rubber brush or even a damp glove to lift stubborn fur. Your washing machine will thank you later.

How to Wash Dog Bed with Urine: Pre-Treating Stains

Accidents happen, and when they do, speed is key. The sooner you treat it, the less it smells.

Spray the stained area with an enzyme cleaner like Lakeside The Lennyshield Odor Eliminator, designed for pet messes. It breaks down odor-causing bacteria instead of covering them up. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then blot gently with a towel.

For stronger odors, soak the area in cool water before washing. This helps lift stains and leaves the bed smelling fresh again.

Step-by-Step Washing Instructions by Bed Type

Now that you’ve prepped, it’s time to wash. The method depends on your bed’s design. Dog beds with removable covers are easier, but even one-piece beds can be cleaned with the right technique.

1. Washing Beds with Removable Covers

Start by unzipping and separating the cover from the insert of your Bowsers Tango Multi Dog Bed. Shake off crumbs, fur, or dirt.

Wash the cover on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water, never hot. Use a pet-safe detergent that’s free of dyes or strong fragrances. These can irritate your dog’s skin.

If the insert is washable, use the same settings. Add an extra rinse to make sure no detergent is left behind.

2. How to Wash a Dog Bed Without Removable Cover (The Whole Bed)

For dog beds like Bowsers The Buttercup Bed, without covers, go big. A large-capacity washer is ideal, especially for thicker beds. Laundromats often have machines made for bulky items.

If that’s not an option, hand washing works too. Fill a bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water and mild detergent. Submerge the bed, squeeze gently, and rinse until the water runs clear.

Avoid twisting or wringing; it can ruin the filling.

Related: How to Clean Dog Beds That Can’t Be Washed?

3. Eliminating Stubborn Odors and Sanitizing the Bed

Even after washing, dog beds can hang on to that “dog” smell. But a few natural tricks help.

Add half a cup of white vinegar or a few tablespoons of baking soda to your wash cycle. They neutralize odors and break down bacteria. If the care label allows, use the warmest safe water setting.

This step not only freshens the bed but also kills hidden germs and dust mites.

Drying Safety: Can Dog Beds Go in the Dryer?

Let’s get back to that big question: can dog beds go in the dryer?

Yes, if the label says it’s safe. But only on the right settings. Drying too hot can ruin your efforts. Drying right can make your dog’s bed soft and cozy again.

The Dryer Risk: Clumping, Shrinkage, and Melting

Dryers save time but can be risky. Too much heat can clump the filling, shrink the fabric, or even melt foam. That’s a fast way to turn a comfy bed into a lumpy disaster.

If you’re unsure, stick to air drying. It takes longer, but protects the materials and keeps the bed’s shape.

Best Practices for Tumble Drying (If Allowed)

If your dog bed passes the dryer test, play it safe.

Use Low Heat or Air Fluff only. Toss in wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls to keep the filling evenly fluffed.

Skip dryer sheets. The scent and chemicals can irritate your dog’s skin. Check the pet bed halfway through and give it a quick shake to prevent clumping.

How Long Can Dog Beds Go in the Dryer?

Drying time depends on the puppy bed’s size and thickness. Start with about 20 to 30 minutes on low heat. Stop halfway, fluff it by hand, then continue.

The Bowsers The Scandinave Pet Sofa Bed needs to be completely dry before use. Any leftover moisture can lead to mildew or that musty smell nobody wants. For thick or foam-filled beds, finish drying in the sun or near a fan for best results.

Dryers are an Option, but Air Drying is Always Best for Dog Bed Integrity

So, can dog beds go in the dryer? Yes, but carefully. Follow the care label, use low heat, and never rush the process.

While the dryer is quick, air drying is kinder. It keeps the fabric snug, the filling fluffy, and the foam firm.

Clean, dry, and cozy: that’s how your dog’s bed should always be. With the right care, your furry friend will have a fresh, comfy spot to dream for years to come.

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