Best Washable Dog Beds for Easy Cleaning
If you own a dog, you know their bed takes a beating. Mud, fur, drool, and strange smells all settle into that cozy spot.
If you’ve tried washing a dog bed not meant for it, you know how that goes: a soggy, lumpy mess that never dries right and smells worse the next time.
That’s why washable dog beds were created. Once you switch, you’ll wonder how you managed without one.
This guide covers everything you need to find the best washable dog bed for your pup. We’ll look at important features and which types suit different dogs and situations.
Why a Washable Dog Bed Is Worth Every Penny
Let’s be honest. A lot of people buy the cheapest dog bed they can find, it gets disgusting in three weeks, and they throw it away.
Then the cycle repeats. Sound familiar? A good washable dog bed breaks that cycle completely.
Here is why it makes a real difference:
- You save money in the long run by not constantly replacing beds
- Your dog sleeps in a cleaner, healthier environment
- You eliminate odors that just absorb into non-washable foam over time
- You reduce allergens and bacteria that build up in fabric and filling
A quality washable bed is not just a convenience. It is genuinely better for your dog’s health.
Dogs with allergies or skin sensitivities especially benefit from sleeping on bedding that gets properly cleaned on a regular basis.
Browse Washable Dog Beds On Amazon
What to Look for in a Washable Dog Bed
Not all “washable” dog beds are created equal. Some technically fit in a washing machine but fall apart after two cycles.
Others have covers you can remove but a foam insert that turns into a science experiment if it gets wet. Knowing what to look for saves you a lot of frustration.
Machine-Washable vs. Hand-Wash Only
The gold standard is a bed where the entire thing, or at least the cover, goes straight into your home washing machine.
Hand-wash only sounds reasonable until you are actually doing it on a Sunday night with cold water and a garden hose. Skip it.
Look for beds labeled as machine-washable with a zipper-off cover. Bonus points if the inner cushion or fill is also washable.
Fill Material Matters More Than You Think
The inside of the bed affects how well it holds up to repeated washing. Here is a quick breakdown:
- Polyfill or fiber fill: Lightweight, dries fast, holds shape reasonably well after washing. Great for most dogs.
- Memory foam: Comfortable but tricky. Most memory foam inserts should never go in a washing machine. Look for beds with a washable cover over a spot-clean-only foam base.
- Shredded foam: More forgiving than solid foam, but still benefits from air drying rather than a tumble dryer.
- Cedar fill: Naturally odor-absorbing, but not always machine-washable. Check the label carefully.
If your dog is a heavy chewer or tends to pull at their bed, polyfill designs are a safer bet.
Memory foam is best for older dogs or those with joint issues, where the comfort payoff is worth the extra care during washing.
Shop Dog Beds By Fill Type On Amazon
Cover Fabric and Durability
The outer fabric of a washable dog bed takes a lot of abuse. Not just from your dog laying on it, but from repeated washing cycles. Look for covers made from:
- Oxford fabric or canvas: Tough, water-resistant, and built for multiple washes
- Microsuede or faux suede: Soft, comfortable, and generally holds up well in the wash
- Fleece: Super soft but attracts pet hair like a magnet. Works great but requires a lint roller every time
Avoid beds with decorative stitching or embellishments on the cover. Those details look cute in the product photo but unravel after a few washes. Practicality wins every time.
Zipper Quality
This one sounds minor but trust me, it is not. A cheap zipper on a dog bed cover will fail faster than you expect, especially after your dog has been pawing at the bed to get comfortable.
Look for heavy-duty metal zippers or reinforced plastic zippers. Check reviews specifically for zipper complaints before buying.
Best Types of Washable Dog Beds for Different Needs
There is no single best washable dog bed that works for every dog. Your pup’s size, sleeping style, age, and even your home environment all play a role. Here is a breakdown by type.
Bolster or Donut Beds
These circular or oval beds with raised edges are perfect for dogs that love to curl up. The bolster acts as a headrest and gives anxious dogs a sense of security.
Best for: Small to medium breeds, anxious dogs, dogs that curl when sleeping
Washability tip: Look for versions where the bolster stuffing is removable or the entire piece fits in a standard front-load washer. Top-load washers with an agitator can be rough on these shapes.
Find The Right Washable Dog Bed For Your Pup On Amazon
Flat Orthopedic Beds
If your dog is a senior, recovering from surgery, or just a big sprawler, a flat orthopedic bed with a washable cover is the move. The foam provides joint support, and the removable cover keeps things hygienic.
Best for: Large breeds, senior dogs, dogs with arthritis or hip issues
Washability tip: The foam insert will almost always be spot-clean only. Focus on getting a cover that zips off easily and is machine-washable. A good cover washed regularly does most of the work.
Crate Mats
For dogs that spend time in a crate, a washable crate mat beats a folded blanket every time. They are designed to fit standard crate sizes and most have machine-washable covers or are fully washable.
Best for: Puppies, crate-trained dogs, travel
Washability tip: These tend to be thinner, which means they wash and dry much faster. Keep a second one on hand so you always have a clean mat ready to go.
Waterproof Washable Beds
This is a category worth knowing about, especially for puppies or older dogs with bladder control issues.
These beds have a waterproof lining beneath the outer fabric cover, which means accidents do not soak through to the fill.
Best for: Puppies in training, senior dogs, dogs prone to accidents
Washability tip: The waterproof layer adds a drying challenge. Make sure you tumble dry on low heat or air dry fully before your dog uses the bed again.
A damp waterproof lining traps moisture and breeds mildew.
Shop Waterproof Washable Dog Beds On Amazon
How Often Should You Wash Your Dog’s Bed?
Most people wash their dog’s bed far less often than they should. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But dog beds accumulate bacteria, yeast, and allergens quickly, especially in warm or humid climates.
A practical schedule that actually works:
- Weekly wash: For dogs that go outside frequently, dogs with allergies, or puppies
- Every two weeks: For indoor dogs with no skin or allergy issues
- Monthly deep clean: At minimum, for any dog bed in your home
When washing, use a fragrance-free, pet-safe detergent.
Scented detergents can irritate your dog’s skin and nose, and some dogs will refuse to sleep on a bed that smells too strongly of lavender or citrus.
Use hot water when the fabric allows it, since heat kills more bacteria than cold water.
Run an extra rinse cycle if possible. Detergent residue left in the fabric can cause skin irritation, especially in dogs with sensitive skin.
Red Flags to Avoid When Shopping
With so many options on the market, a few common traps catch people off guard. Here are the ones worth watching for.
Vague “washable” claims without specifics. If a product listing says “washable” but does not specify machine-washable versus hand-wash, assume hand-wash. Always check the care label details.
No zipper on the cover. A bed with a sewn-shut cover is not easily washable. You either have to wash the entire stuffed bed or skip washing the cover entirely. Neither is ideal.
Thin, cheap fabric on a “heavy duty” bed. Some sellers market beds for large dogs but use fabric that cannot handle a dog over 30 pounds.
Read size weight limits and cross-reference them with customer reviews from large breed owners.
Oversized beds that do not fit standard washers.
An XXL dog bed might look impressive, but if it cannot fit in a residential washing machine, you are driving to the laundromat or hand-washing it in your bathtub. Neither option is fun.
Making Your Washable Dog Bed Last Longer
Getting the most out of your investment comes down to a few simple habits that most dog owners skip.
Use a waterproof liner. Even if your dog does not have accidents, a washable waterproof liner placed between the cover and the fill adds an extra barrier against moisture and extends the life of the fill significantly.
Vacuum between washes. A quick vacuum of the bed surface every few days removes loose fur and dirt before it gets pressed into the fabric. This keeps the bed fresher between washes.
Rotate covers if possible. Some beds come with additional covers, or you can buy extras separately.
Rotating covers means you always have a clean one ready and the bed never has to sit cold and damp while you wait for the laundry.
Air it out regularly. On dry days, take the bed outside for an hour. Sunlight is a natural deodorizer and helps kill bacteria.
Your dog will probably follow the bed outside, which is honestly just a bonus.
The Bottom Line
Finding the best washable dog bed for easy cleaning is not complicated once you know what to look for.
You want a bed with a durable, zipper-off machine-washable cover, a fill material that holds up to repeated washing, and a waterproof layer if your situation calls for it.
Stop buying cheap beds that end up in the bin every few months.
A quality washable dog bed, cared for properly, can last years, keep your dog healthier, and save your nose from whatever that smell was in the corner of the living room.
Your dog deserves a clean place to sleep, and honestly, so does your home.
Shop The Best Washable Dog Beds On Amazon
What Is the Best Way to Wash a Dog Bed Without Ruining It?
To wash a dog bed without damage, start by removing the cover if it has one. Then, machine wash it on a gentle or normal cycle with hot water and a pet-safe, fragrance-free detergent.
Always run an extra rinse cycle to remove any soap residue. Leftover soap can irritate your dog’s skin. For beds with memory foam inserts, do not machine wash them.
Instead, spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap. Tumble dry on low heat or air dry completely. A damp bed can lead to mildew and odors.
How Often Should You Wash a Washable Dog Bed?
Wash your dog’s bed at least every two weeks. Weekly washing is better for outdoor dogs, puppies, or those with skin allergies.
Aim for monthly washing at the very least, even if the bed looks clean. Bacteria, yeast, and allergens can build up in the fabric before you see them.
Dogs with fleas or skin issues need even more frequent washes. A regular laundry day for the dog bed, like you have for your own bedding, helps you stay consistent.
Are Washable Dog Beds Durable Enough for Heavy Chewers?
Some washable dog beds are made for heavy chewers. If your dog digs, bites, or pulls at their bedding, choose these.
Look for beds made from ballistic nylon, ripstop fabric, or reinforced Oxford canvas. These materials resist tearing better than standard microsuede or fleece.
Reinforced stitching and chew-resistant zippers also help them last longer. However, no dog bed is truly indestructible.
Pairing a tough washable bed with regular supervision and chew toys gives you the best chance of keeping it intact.
Can You Put a Dog Bed With Memory Foam in the Washing Machine?
Do not put a memory foam dog bed insert in the washing machine. The agitation and water can break down the foam and ruin its support.
Most memory foam dog beds come with a removable, machine-washable cover. This cover handles most cleaning.
For the foam insert, spot clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent when needed. If the whole bed gets soaked, press out as much water as you can.
Then, let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. This drying can take 24 to 48 hours, depending on the foam’s thickness.
What Is the Most Hygienic Type of Dog Bed for Dogs With Allergies?
The best dog bed for allergy-prone dogs is a washable one. It should have a removable cover that you can machine wash. A waterproof inner lining is also important.
This layer stops moisture, dander, and allergens from soaking into the filling. As a result, the bed stays cleaner longer between washes.
Polyfill beds are often better than memory foam for dogs with allergies. You can usually wash the entire filling along with the cover.
Choosing a cover made of tightly woven fabric helps too. Tighter weaves trap fewer allergens than loose or fluffy fabrics like fleece.
