You’ve probably grown accustomed to all sorts of “pet odors” around your home. But when that odor starts emanating from your dog’s favorite kennel , it’s more than just an embarrassing problem. It’s actually a concern for your dog’s health, as well as the overall hygiene of your home.
So, how do you thoroughly clean your dog’s bed and return it to its soft, fresh state? Don’t worry, it’s much easier than you think. We’ll walk you through the process step by step, whether your dog’s bed is machine washable or requires hand washing.
Preparation before cleaning:
your dog’s kennel into the washing machine or bathtub, you need to do a little prep work first.
Shake out hair and debris : Take the kennel outside and pat or shake it vigorously to remove loose hair, dust, and debris. This step is crucial to prevent hair from clogging your washing machine or drain.
Pre-treat with a vacuum cleaner : If you don’t want to make a big fuss outdoors, or your dog’s kennel is too large, you can also use the small brush head of the vacuum cleaner to suck away the hair and dirt on the surface.
If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner at home, you can use tape to pick up the hair like I did .
Check the washing label : Before you start washing, be sure to find the washing label on the dog bed. This small label is your operating manual and will tell you the most accurate washing instructions, such as whether it can be machine washed, tumble dried, and the appropriate water temperature.
Machine washable, saving time and effort
If your dog’s kennel has an organic wash label, your job will be much easier.
Removable dog bed cover : Most machine-washable dog beds come with a removable dog bed cover. Before washing, please remove the bed cover first. Usually the bed cover and the bed core need to be washed separately.
Choose a mild detergent: When choosing a detergent, treat your dog’s bed like you would baby clothes . Choose a mild, fragrance-free detergent designed specifically for pets or babies.
Avoid using detergents with strong chemicals or fragrances, as these may irritate your dog’s skin or cause allergies. You can also add some white vinegar to the detergent to help remove odors.
Choose the right wash cycle and water temperature: Place the cover or mattress insert in the washing machine and select the gentle or delicate cycle. Regarding water temperature, if the washing label doesn’t specify otherwise, it’s usually safer to use cold or warm water, as hot water may shrink the dog bed .
Extra Rinse: To ensure all detergent residue is rinsed away, it is recommended to select the extra rinse cycle. Detergent residue may irritate your dog’s skin.
Tumble dry or line dry: If the care label allows tumble drying, use a low heat setting. Air drying is a better option if conditions permit. Hang the dog bed in a well-ventilated area to ensure it is completely dry inside and out, as damp conditions can easily breed mold and mildew.
Wash by hand if there is no washing machine
For dog beds that are not machine washable or are too large to fit in a washing machine , hand washing is the only option. While it may require a little more effort, the results are definitely worth it.
Prepare the cleaning solution: Fill a large basin or tub with warm water and add a small amount of mild pet detergent.
Soak and rub: Submerge the dog bed completely in water and gently rub it with your hands, paying special attention to any soiled areas. You can use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the surface, just like you would a precious wool sweater.
Rinse thoroughly: Pour out the dirty water and rinse repeatedly with clean warm water until there is no foam. This step should be particularly careful to ensure that all detergents are rinsed away, otherwise the residue may irritate the dog’s skin.
Squeeze out excess water: Take the dog bed out and squeeze it gently to remove excess water. Please do not twist it hard to avoid damaging the filling inside the dog bed.
Air Dry: Lay the dog bed flat in a well-ventilated area and allow it to air dry. To speed drying and prevent mold, hang it up and turn it over frequently. Remember: The bed must be completely dry before using it with your dog .
Remember to dry it completely. Before there were washing machines, there was no way to dehydrate the doghouse by hand, which resulted in the doghouse not being completely dry. Not only did the doghouse have an undried smell, but it was also bad for the dog’s skin because it was too moist.
The secret weapon to staying clean
Regular cleaning: It’s recommended to vacuum your dog’s bed once a week and give it a deep clean every two to three weeks. This, like making your own bed regularly, will help maintain hygiene.
Spare bed sheet: If your dog bed is removable, you can prepare a spare bed cover. This way, you can replace it at any time when cleaning, and you no longer have to worry about your dog having no place to sleep.
Choosing the right dog bed: If you’re considering buying a new bed for your dog, consider one with a removable, machine-washable cover. This will make future cleanup a breeze.
Summarize:
Ultimately, a clean, fresh dog bed not only makes your home smell fresher, but it also helps your dog sleep more comfortably and healthily. It’s a small gesture that can go a long way in improving the quality of life for you and your furry friend.
you clean your dog’s kennel ? Do you have any unique cleaning tips? Share your experiences in the comments!