Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning an Orthopedic Dog Bed

If you’re a dog owner, you know that keeping your furry friend’s bed clean can be a challenging task. Orthopedic dog beds, in particular, require extra care and attention when cleaning.

These beds are designed to provide comfort and support to dogs with joint issues or other medical conditions, making them an essential purchase for many pet owners. However, they can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, dirt, and other harmful substances without proper cleaning and maintenance.

The guide to cleaning an orthopedic dog bed involves gathering supplies, removing the cover and vacuuming fur, spot-cleaning stains, washing the cover, cleaning the bed, and reassembling everything. Regular cleaning is important for your pet’s health and comfort.

In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on cleaning an orthopedic dog bed. We’ll cover everything from the tools and materials you’ll need to the different cleaning methods you can use. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or new to the game, our guide will help you keep your furry friend’s bed clean and comfortable, ensuring their overall health and well-being.

How to Clean an Orthopedic Dog Bed

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before I start cleaning my dog’s orthopedic bed, I always have all the necessary supplies. 

Trust me. It’s much easier to have everything on hand than to stop halfway through the process and search for something. 

Here’s what I gather: a vacuum cleaner, a spot cleaner or enzymatic cleaner, a pet-friendly detergent, a scrub brush, and a hose or a large sink or bathtub.

The vacuum cleaner is essential for removing loose dirt, hair, or debris from the bed. I also use a spot or enzymatic cleaner to treat stubborn stains. 

I make sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label and let it sit for the recommended time. 

A pet-friendly detergent is necessary for washing the cover, and I follow the label’s instructions. 

This is the one that I have at home, and it has worked wonders in eliminating bad odor and improving the quality of space.

Lastly, a scrub brush is handy for cleaning the bed, especially if it’s dirty. Afterward, I rinse everything thoroughly with a hose or in a large sink or bathtub.

Step 2: Remove the Cover To Remove The Fur

Now that I have all my supplies ready, it’s time to remove the cover from the bed. Before washing it, I shake off any loose dirt or debris. 

However, the cover usually has a lot of furs, and shaking it doesn’t do the job entirely. 

So, I prefer to vacuum it using a handheld vacuum cleaner or a vacuum brush attachment. 

This is the easiest and hassle-free way to remove all the stubborn fur from my dog’s bedding.

One thing to keep in mind is not to wet the bed before vacuuming the fur. Wet fur can easily stick to the bedding, removing it even harder. 

So, I make sure to vacuum the fur first and then proceed to wash the cover. Once I’ve vacuumed all the fur, I move on to the next step of the cleaning process.

I watched the YouTube video below when I first removed the cover of my Willow’s orthopedic dog bed. I hope it can help you too!

How To Remove The Cover Of a Big Barker Dog Bed

Step 4: Clean The Stains

Now it’s time to tackle any stubborn stains on the cover of my dog’s orthopedic bed. 

My dog Willow enjoys sleeping in bed for long hours. Especially after a walk or a full meal, she sleeps there uninterrupted. As the bed has turned out to be her favorite spot, it’s essential to keep it clean and sanitized.

I always use a spot or enzymatic cleaner to treat them, as these cleaners are specifically designed to break down and remove tough stains. 

I follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label and let it sit for the recommended time to ensure it works effectively.

It’s essential to avoid using bleach or any other strong detergent, as they can damage the bed’s material. 

Once I’ve treated the stains with the cleaner, I rinse the area thoroughly and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step. 

Removing all the stains before putting the bed in the washer is crucial to ensure it comes out as clean as possible.

Step 5: Wash the Cover

Now that I’ve treated any stains on the cover of my dog’s orthopedic bed, it’s time to wash it. 

“When I purchased the bed, I was uncertain of the exact part of the bed to be washed. Over the years, I recognize that every element of the bed has a purpose and we need to educate ourselves on proper use first!”

World of Dogz

I always use a pet-friendly detergent and follow the instructions on the label to ensure I don’t damage the material or harm my furry friend. 

I make sure to wash the cover in warm water, as that will effectively remove all the bacteria and bugs that could harm my pet’s health.

However, I avoid using too high temperatures, which can damage the fabric. 

Once the washing cycle is complete, I remove the cover and let it air dry completely.

Not putting the cover in the dryer is important, as high temperatures can shrink or damage the material. Once the cover is dry, I move on to the final step of the cleaning process.

Step 6: Clean the Bed

While the cover of my dog’s orthopedic bed is washing, I take the opportunity to clean the bed itself. 

I use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt, hair, or debris that may have accumulated on the bed. If the bed is particularly dirty, I use a scrub brush and a pet-friendly detergent to clean it thoroughly.

Once I’ve cleaned the bed, I rinse it with a hose or in a large sink or bathtub at least twice to ensure all the detergent is removed. 

Letting the bed dry completely before putting the cover back on is crucial. Drying in the sun is the best option, as it helps to kill any remaining bacteria and freshen up the bed. 

However, if that’s not possible, I use a tumble dryer on low heat, ensuring not to damage the bed’s material. 

Step 7: Reassemble the Bed

Now that the cover and bed are clean and dry, it’s time to assemble everything. I put the cover back on the bed, ensuring it’s securely fastened. 

Then, I place the bed in a clean, dry area where my furry friend can enjoy a comfortable and healthy sleep.

It’s important to ensure everything is assembled correctly and the bed is in good condition before allowing my dog to use it again. 

Regular cleaning of my dog’s orthopedic bed is essential to keep my furry friend healthy and happy, and I follow these steps to ensure the bed is always in tip-top shape.

Tips For Maintaining A Clean Dog Bed

Whether a normal bed or an orthopedic dog bed, maintenance plays a critical role in extending the longevity of the bed.

I’ve an orthopedic dog bed that I’ve been maintaining for years by following a few tips. In fact, I’ve included the tips for my regular routine to ensure that my dog Willow enjoys using it and the bed is a value for money.

Here are the tips I follow for maintaining a clean dog bed:

1. Vacuum the bed regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any hair, dirt, or debris from the bed’s surface. This will help prevent the buildup of allergens and bacteria.
2. Use a pet-friendly fabric cleaner: Avoid using harsh chemicals that could irritate your dog’s skin. Instead, use a pet-friendly fabric cleaner to remove stains and odors.
3. Wash the bed cover frequently: Most orthopedic dog beds come with a removable cover that can be washed in the washing machine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying the cover to ensure it stays in good condition.
4. Spot-clean as needed: If your dog has an accident on the bed or spills something on it, clean the affected area as soon as possible. Use a pet-friendly cleaner and a damp cloth to spot-clean the area.
5. Rotate the bed: To prevent wear and tear on one side of the bed, rotate it regularly. This will also help distribute your dog’s weight evenly and keep the bed’s shape intact.

By following these tips, you can help keep your dog’s bed clean and comfortable for years to come.

FAQs

How Often Should You Wash A Dog Bed?

The frequency of washing a dog bed depends on a few factors, such as how often your dog uses it and whether it is prone to allergies or skin conditions.

Generally, it’s recommended to wash a dog bed once every 2-4 weeks to remove dirt, hair, and bacteria. However, if your dog has a medical condition or allergies, you may need to wash the bed more frequently to prevent irritation and promote overall health.

How to Clean a Handwash-Only Bed?

If your dog’s bed is handwash-only, you’ll need to follow the care instructions on the label carefully. You can handwash the bed using a mild pet-friendly detergent and warm water.

Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub stubborn stains, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Squeeze out any excess water gently and let the bed air dry completely before using it again. Avoid using a tumble dryer or exposing the bed to direct sunlight, as it can damage the material.

Can I Use A Steam Cleaner To Clean My Dog’s Bed?

Using a steam cleaner on your dog’s bed can effectively clean and sanitize it. However, it’s important to ensure the bed’s material can withstand the heat and moisture from the steam cleaner. Always check the care label before using a steam cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a steam cleaner can help kill bacteria, germs, and allergens, but let the bed dry completely before using it again.

How To Remove Bad Odor From Dog Bed

To remove bad odor from your dog’s bed, vacuum the bed to remove any loose dirt, hair, or debris. Then, sprinkle baking soda liberally over the bed and let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb any odors. Vacuum the baking soda and repeat if necessary.

Alternatively, you can use an enzymatic cleaner to break down and eliminate the source of the odor. Follow the cleaner’s instructions and let it sit for the recommended time before wiping it away. Lastly, let the bed air dry completely before using it again.

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