How to Wash a Dog Bed at a Laundromat

Why Wash Your Dog Bed Regularly?

Dog beds collect an impressive amount of dirt, dander, saliva, fur, and bacteria over time. If your dog spends any time outdoors — and in Colorado Springs, that probably means hiking, trail running, or romping around Bear Creek or Palmer Park — their bed is absorbing all of that.

A dirty dog bed can harbor dust mites, fleas, and bacteria that cause odors and can aggravate allergies for both humans and pets. Veterinarians generally recommend washing your dog's bed every 1-2 weeks, or at minimum once a month.

The problem is that most dog beds are too large and too bulky for home washing machines. That's where a laundromat comes in — commercial machines have the capacity and water volume to properly clean even the largest dog beds.

Can You Wash a Dog Bed in a Washing Machine?

Most dog beds are machine washable, but you need to check the care label first. There are two main types:

• Beds with removable covers — Remove the cover and wash it separately. The inner cushion or stuffing may also be washable, but check the label. Some inner cushions are spot-clean only.
• One-piece beds (no removable cover) — These go in the machine as-is. Make sure the machine is large enough for the bed to move freely during the wash cycle.
• Memory foam beds — The foam insert should NOT go in the washing machine. It will absorb water, become waterlogged, and potentially fall apart. Wash the cover only and spot-clean the foam with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Heated or electronic beds — Remove all electrical components before washing. Only wash the fabric portions.

Step-by-Step: Washing a Dog Bed at a Laundromat

Here's the process for getting your dog's bed thoroughly clean using commercial laundromat machines:

• Remove pet hair first — Before putting the bed in the machine, remove as much pet hair as possible. Use a lint roller, rubber gloves, or put the bed in the dryer on air-only (no heat) for 10 minutes to loosen hair. This prevents hair from clogging the machine's drain.
• Pre-treat stains — If there are visible stains or heavily soiled areas, pre-treat with a pet-safe stain remover or a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing.
• Choose the right machine size — Use a machine large enough for the bed to move freely. A cramped bed won't get clean. At Sandy Creek Laundromat, our 40 lb machines work for most medium dog beds, and our 60 lb machines handle even the largest beds.
• Use pet-safe detergent — Use a fragrance-free, dye-free detergent. Dogs have sensitive skin, and heavily scented detergents can cause irritation. Never use bleach unless the care label specifically allows it. A splash of white vinegar in the rinse cycle helps neutralize odors.
• Wash on warm, gentle cycle — Warm water (not hot) is effective at killing bacteria and dust mites without damaging the bed. Use the gentle or delicate cycle to protect the fabric and stitching.
• Run an extra rinse — Detergent residue can irritate your dog's skin. An extra rinse cycle ensures all soap is removed.
• Dry thoroughly — Use a commercial dryer on low to medium heat. Make sure the bed is completely dry before giving it back to your dog — a damp bed can develop mildew quickly. Large beds may take 45-60 minutes to dry fully.

What About Memory Foam Dog Beds?

Memory foam dog beds are popular for older dogs and dogs with joint issues, but the foam itself cannot go in a washing machine. Here's how to clean them:

Remove the cover and wash it in the machine following the steps above. For the foam insert, vacuum it to remove hair and debris, then spot-clean with a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water. Use a damp cloth — don't soak the foam. Sprinkle baking soda over the foam, let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb odors, then vacuum it off.

If the foam is heavily soiled or smelly, you can rinse it gently in a bathtub with lukewarm water and mild detergent, then squeeze (don't wring) out the water. Air dry completely — this can take 24-48 hours. Never put memory foam in the dryer.

How Often Should You Wash a Dog Bed?

The frequency depends on your dog's lifestyle and any health considerations:

• Every 1-2 weeks — If your dog has allergies, skin conditions, or spends a lot of time outdoors.
• Every 2-4 weeks — For most dogs with normal activity levels.
• Monthly — Minimum recommended frequency, even for indoor-only dogs.
• Immediately — After your dog has been sick, had fleas, or the bed has been exposed to mud, rain, or other heavy soiling.

Laundromat Etiquette When Washing Pet Items

Most laundromats allow you to wash pet bedding, but it's good practice to be considerate of other customers:

• Remove as much pet hair as possible before using the machine — this is the most important step for etiquette.
• Wipe down the machine drum after your load is done.
• Don't wash pet items with human clothing in the same load.
• At Sandy Creek Laundromat, we welcome pet bedding in our machines. Our staff cleans machines regularly, and our commercial-grade machines handle pet hair without issue.