Tired of trying to tug off dog bed covers that weren't meant to be removed? Annoyed with having to keep spending money on new covers when the old ones are torn in the process of trying to keep them clean? Fed up with having to replace entire dog beds after they come out of the wash with damaged zippers?
It may be time to look into purchasing a truly washable dog bed. After reading through our guide to washable dog beds, you can look forward to no more stinky smelling dog beds and no more needless money spent on countless replacements.
Machine-Washable dog beds come in many styles with features that make them easy to clean. Before buying a washable bed, consider the following:
- Ideally, a washable dog bed should be able to go through both washer and dryer cycles safely.
- A washable dog bed should feature a cover that is easy to pull off and put back on without tearing.
- Stitches, seams, and zippers should be sturdy enough to survive laundry cycles without damage.
- A waterproof, washable dog bed is easy to wipe clean.
- There are many different shapes, sizes and styles of washable dog beds on the market.
Scroll down to read our detailed shopping guide, or read on to check out our recommended beds.
Our Top 6 Picks
  | Best Washable Dog Bed ANWA Washable | ||
  | Best Washable Sofa Petsure Orthopedic | ||
  | Best for small dogs Blueberry Heavy-Duty | ||
  | Best washable crate Furrybaby Mat | ||
  | Best for dogs that curl-up Friends Forever Donut | ||
  | Best for dogs that stretch The Dog’s Bed Orthopedic |
The best machine washable dog bed
If you want to be able to wash your canine bed in the washing machine, our overall top pick in this category is the ANWA dog bed. This rectangular bed with its bolstered sides is a comfortable choice for many breeds and personalities and includes some great features for easy cleaning. The neutral colors ensure that the bed will fit in well with any existing décor.
Why we chose it
Fully washable. Cleaning this entire bed in your washing machine is easy in cold water. Afterwards, you can transfer the bed to your dryer, where it will be safe so long as you do not exceed 110°F.
Comfy, safe, no-slip design. Available in three different sizes (24 inches, 30 inches, and 36 inches), this machine-washable dog bed should be a fit for a variety of breeds. The service fabric is soft and cozy, and the PP cotton interior stuffing is eco-friendly and non-toxic.
This bed also includes a nice extra feature on the bottom. An array of rubber dots that prevent the bed from slipping or skidding across the floor. If you have a dog that enthusiastically bounds in or out of bed or plays in it, this can be an important safety feature.
Keep in mind
The bottom is sometimes thin. At times these beds seem to be a bit thin on the bottom. This flaw doesn't see to affect most units shipped out, however. If you do feel that the bottom of the bed is too thin, try contacting the seller, which offers 24-hour online service 7 days a week.
If you would like to take a closer look at this fully-washable dog bed on Amazon, click here.
Best washable sofa dog bed
In search of a sofa-style orthopedic dog bed which is easy to wash? The Petsure dog bed is available in three different sizes (28 inches, 36 inches and 42 inches). The neutral colors of the bed make it suitable for any part of the home. It includes several features to make washing easy, along with some other fantastic benefits. The manufacturer backs this bed with a 1-month return and replacement guarantee.
Why we chose it
Water-resistant with removable cover. There are zippers on three sides of the cover, which makes it easy to remove it to wash. You can take out the memory foam before washing, which itself is protected by a water-resistant liner.
Orthopedic support. This bed was built to be supremely soft and comfortable. The memory foam inside conforms to the shape of your dog's body to provide natural support where it is needed most and retains its shape well over time. The interior of the "nest" is lined with cloud sherpa for softness and warmth.
Doesn’t skid. Like the ANWA Bed, the Petsure features rubber dots on the base so that it won’t skid across the floor.
Keep in mind
The bolsters may be problematic. You cannot remove the bolsters the way you can the memory foam component. That means that you need to wash them as well. Depending on the size of your washing machine, that could be an issue.
If you would like to learn more about this easy to wash memory foam dog bed, you can read reviews, and check the current price here.
Best for small dogs
Customers who are in the market for a conveniently washable bed for a small dog will want to check out the Blueberry Pet Bed. You can wash the cover of the bed with ease in your washing machine, and its overall quality and stylish design make it an excellent option all-around.
Like this dog bed but have a medium-sized pet? Check the size options, as the same product is available in a larger size as well.
Why we chose it
Machine washable cover. When you order this dog bed, you get the bed itself along with an extra cover. Sturdy YKK zippers allow you to remove the cover completely and toss it into your washing machine. Use the gentle cycle only, and then feel free to transfer the cover to your dryer or hang it up to dry (the latter being recommended by the manufacturer).
Choose your style. This bed is in the shape of a small sofa with bolstered sides and includes a little pillow that is shaped like a bone. One of the cool things about this product is that it is available in a vast array of different colors and styles. You can get it in dual colors (pink and tan, light blue and tan, red and brown, or blue and brown), or you can purchase it with embroidered leaves or paisley designs. So, for customers in the market for something more "fun" than "neutral," this washable dog bed is a fabulous choice.
Keep in mind
You cannot wash the inserts. Note that you should resist the urge to wash the pillow inserts in the washing machine. They are not designed for this, and it is possible for them to break.
If you want to take a closer look at this beautiful bed on Amazon, click here.
Best washable crate mat
The Furrybaby Dog Bed is a washable option to consider if you are shopping for a bed in the style of a crate mat. It is available in a range of different sizes running from extra small to extra large and comes in three different colors: brown, gray, and pink.
Why we chose it
Effortless machine washing. If you have owned other crate mats in the past, you know that they are often troublesome when it comes to the washing machine. With this dog bed, you don’t have to worry about the material losing its shape when you stuff it inside. Some customers do put it in the dryer afterward, but it is recommended to be safe that you line dry it instead.
The right mix of softness and support. The surface of this mat has a plush texture and is luxuriously soft. At the same time, the 3 cm cotton inside provides the support that your dog needs for optimal joint health.
Non-Skid Bottom. Like the other options we have shared so far, this one is designed to stay in place, even on hardwood or tile floors.
Keep in mind
May not be ideal for dedicated chewers. If your dog is a driven and adept chewer, he may be able to tear some holes in this mat. But for most dogs, it should be sturdy enough to serve as a comfortable and long-lasting washable dog bed.
Interested? You can check out this washable dog mat here.
Best for dogs that curl up
Donut beds for dogs can also be easy to wash! If your dog loves to snuggle into a donut, we recommend the Friends Forever Bed, which is available in two sizes, 23x23" and 30x30." Color options include pink and tan.
Why we chose it
You can wash the entire bed. The cover of this bed is not removable, but you can wash the bed completely by putting it in your washing machine and running the gentle cycle. You can then dry it in your dryer on low heat.
Soft, cozy, safe, and supportive. This washable dog bed was manufactured using only materials that are safe and non-toxic. The donut shape and the plush cover are super soft, warm, and cozy. Donut shaped beds like this one are recommended particularly for dogs that need extra head and neck support as well as those that need emotional support.
Keep in mind
You may need a strong dryer. While you can wash the whole bed easily in a washing machine, some customers remark that drying it is a different story. If you have a dryer that has a very low heat output, you might have a difficult time getting the interior of the bed to dry out completely. Then again, this may just be a matter of patience.
If you would like to buy this super cozy orthopedic donut bed, you can find it here.
Best for dogs that like to stretch
Shopping for a washable dog bed for a pet that likes to be able to stretch out fully? One option worth considering is The Dog’s Orthopedic Dog Bed. The bed is available in sizes ranging from S through XXXL, so no matter the size and weight of your pet, this product should meet your needs.
Also, the bed is available in a wide variety of colors and materials. These include grey with blue trim, grey with orange trim, grey plush, brown linen, brown plush, grey linen, grey with black trim, grey with green trim, grey with pink trim and brown with brown trim.
Why we chose it
The cover is washable and the foam is protected. You cannot fully wash the interior foam of the bed, but there is a waterproof cover protecting it, which makes it much less likely that you would need to clean it. You can, however, use an enzyme cleaner on isolated spots of the foam if necessary.
As for the cover, you can remove it completely and wash it with your washing machine. The seller advises customers to avoid using high-agitation cycles. As usual, it is best to dry the cover on your clothes line, but you should be able to get away with putting it in your dryer on the delicate setting. If you need to get a new cover, you can purchase a replacement without having to buy a whole new bed.
This bed is ideal for joint support. For dogs that require proper joint support and mobility, this bed is an excellent option.
Keep in mind
The cover may not be as durable as It could be. If your dog likes to bite or tear at his bed, that could pose problems with the cover for this one, which may not be tough enough to stand up to such behavior.
If you are curious about this therapeutic dog bed designed to provide extra support for aching joints, it is available on Amazon (here).
Buying Advice
Before you shop for a washable bed for your dog, it helps to know a bit more about washable dog bed types and features. Let’s go over what you need to know in order to choose the ideal washable dog bed for your needs.
What Makes a Dog Bed Washable?
Washable dog beds are designed to address the pain points associated with standard dog beds, which do not include features that make them easy to clean.
Key Features
The Right Size, Shape and Type
Every dog has his own needs in terms of dog bed configurations. Some dogs want to stretch out on a flat, wide surface while others want to curl up into a ball in a fluffy donut. See the section below on types of washable dog beds.
Longevity
Shop for a washable dog bed that will hold its shape for a long time to come. Materials such as memory foam are great for this purpose and for providing excellent support. The longevity of the cover is also a key consideration. Look for fabric your dog is unlikely to destroy.
Aesthetic Design
The aesthetic aspects of a dog bed's design also are relevant, especially if the dog bed will be in the living room or another part of the home where it will be in plain view of household members and visitors. If you want a dog bed that will "conceal" stains and debris, choose one which features a design on the fabric rather than a solid color. If your dog is a major shedder, consider getting one that matches his fur.
Brand Reputation and Customer Service
What will you do if you have questions about a newly purchased dog bed, or need to replace one within the warranty period? If you purchase a bed from a reputable company that offers solid customer service, you can rest assured that the company will issue you a fast replacement or rapidly address your questions or concerns.
Non-skid
Some dog beds have non-slip bottoms so that your dog will not slide the bed across the floor when jumping in or out of it.
Orthopedic Support
Proper orthopedic support is particularly important if you have an older dog or a breed that is prone to hip dysplasia or elbow problems.
Hypoallergenic Materials
Dogs can have allergies, just like humans. Pick a dog bed which is hypoallergenic.
Types of Washable Dog Beds
As with dog beds which are not designed with easy cleaning in mind, those which are can take many different shapes. Here are some types of washable dog beds you may find on the market:
- Flat and contoured beds
- Lounge-style beds
- Bagel beds
- Cave beds
- Pillow Beds
If your dog has an existing bed, you already probably know which style of washable dog bed to purchase.
If you're not sure, try looking at places your dog tends to sleep now for some clues as to what type of dog bed would make the most sense.
Keeping Your Dog Bed Clean
If you want to extend the time you can go between full washings of your dog bed, there are some steps you can take to keep it clean in the meantime.
For starters, you should regularly wipe down the surface. This will clear away hair and debris. A waterproof surface works great for this purpose.
You can also apply a protectant spray directly to the surface of the bed. That way, the surface is less likely to accumulate stains, and you will not need to spend as much time and energy trying to remove them later.
Finally, if you have a dirty dog, you can expect a dirty dog bed. So, along with regular cleanings of your dog bed, you should also regularly wash your dog as well and brush his fur so that he doesn’t shed as much.
FAQ
Is it OK to wash a dog bed in the washing machine?
Possibly. It depends on what type of dog bed you purchase. Some dog beds are machine washable and others are not. Many have machine washable components, even if they are not fully washable in the machine. Check for this feature when you are shopping.
How often should I wash my dog’s bed?
According to PetMD, Kathy Backus, DVM, Holistic Veterinary Services, in Kaysville, Utah, says that once every week or two is ideal for washing a dog bed. The site adds, “When determining how often to wash your dog’s bedding, however, you should also consider your pet’s activity level, how much they shed, the amount of time they spend outdoors and if they (or you) have allergies.”
How do I get the dog smell out of my dog's bed?
There are absorbent sprays you can purchase to combat odors on your dog's bed. You can also use these sprays on other objects or furnishings which smell like dog. Remember, you should never use an unhealthy chemical product on your dog's bed. Buy a spray that is specifically formulated to be safe and well-tolerated by pets.
How can I keep my dog's bed clean?
Cleaning a dog bed involves several steps if you want to be really thorough about it. First, you need to shake loose any debris. Then, you can vacuum the bed, soak it, and scrub problem areas. You probably will need to wash the cover and the bed itself separately, assuming you have a fully washable bed. Otherwise, you might just be washing the removable cover. Check out detailed instructions on how to clean a dog bed.
How do you get dog pee smell out of the dog bed?
Baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and vinegar are all standard household cleaning products which are recommended for the removal of urine from a dog bed. For a detailed explanation of how to use these ingredients to wash away dog pee and its associated odor, see this page.
How often should you replace dog beds?
That depends on how long they last. If your dog bed is still in good condition, there is no reason to replace it. If, on the other hand, the bed is no longer providing adequate, even support, or it is damaged in some way, it is probably time to replace it. You also should replace it if mold or other contaminants have taken over, and a good scrubbing is no longer sufficient to restore hygienic conditions.
Conclusion
Now you have had a chance to learn about the important features to consider when selecting a washable dog bed, and you have had an opportunity to read answers to frequently asked questions. Scroll back to the section where we shared our recommendations to discover washable dog beds in all shapes and sizes. Enjoy washing and drying your next dog bed with ease!