How Often Should You Wash Your Pet's Bedding? A Hygiene Guide for Pet Owners

Quick Answer

Wash your pet's bedding every one to two weeks, but increase frequency if your pet has allergies, skin issues, or spends a lot of time outdoors. For heavily soiled beds or during shedding season, a weekly wash helps keep hair and dander under control. Always check the care label for specific instructions.

Your pet's bed is their favorite spot for naps, play, and comfort, but it can also become a haven for hair, dander, dirt, and odors. Regular washing not only keeps your home smelling fresh but also supports your pet's skin and respiratory health. So, how often should you wash it?

The answer depends on your pet's lifestyle, coat type, and health. In this guide, we'll break down the recommended frequency, signs that it's time to wash, and practical tips to make the chore easier—including how to handle pet hair in the laundry.

General Washing Frequency

For most pets, washing their bedding every one to two weeks is sufficient. This prevents the buildup of dirt, oils, and allergens while keeping the bed fresh. If your pet spends most of their time indoors and doesn't have skin issues, a bi-weekly wash may be enough.

However, pets that shed heavily, have allergies, or enjoy outdoor adventures may need a weekly wash. During shedding season, more frequent washing helps reduce the amount of hair that ends up on your furniture and clothes. Always use a pet-safe detergent and avoid fabric softeners, which can irritate sensitive skin.

• Wash weekly for pets with allergies, skin conditions, or heavy shedding.
• Wash every two weeks for indoor pets with normal oil and dander production.
• Spot-clean stains immediately to prevent odors from setting in.

Signs It's Time to Wash

Beyond a set schedule, trust your senses. If you notice a musty or 'doggy' odor, visible dirt, or a buildup of pet hair, it's time to wash. Also, if your pet has been sick or has had an accident, clean the bedding promptly to prevent bacteria growth.

Pets with skin conditions may benefit from more frequent washing to remove allergens and irritants. In such cases, consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations. Regularly washing bedding also helps reduce the spread of fleas and ticks, especially if your pet spends time outdoors.

• Odor that doesn't go away with airing out.
• Visible dirt, stains, or matted hair on the fabric.
• Increased scratching or sneezing in your pet, indicating allergen buildup.

Tips for Washing Pet Bedding

Before washing, remove loose hair and debris by vacuuming the bed or using a pet hair remover. This prevents hair from clogging your washing machine and reduces the need for extra rinse cycles. Pre-treat stains with a pet-safe stain remover if needed.

Wash bedding in warm water with a gentle, unscented detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals. For waterproof or orthopedic beds, follow the manufacturer's instructions—some covers are machine-washable, while others require spot cleaning. Dry thoroughly to prevent mildew, preferably on low heat or air dry.

• Vacuum or use a pet hair remover before washing to minimize hair in the machine.
• Use a pet-safe detergent and skip fabric softeners.
• Dry completely to prevent odors and mildew.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I wash my dog's bed if they have allergies?

Wash weekly to remove allergens like dust mites and dander. Use hypoallergenic detergent and rinse thoroughly to avoid residue that can irritate skin. Weekly washing is best for allergy-prone pets.

Can I wash pet bedding with my regular laundry?

It's better to wash pet bedding separately to avoid transferring hair and dander to your clothes. If you must combine, use a lint trap and run an extra rinse cycle. Separate loads keep your laundry hair-free.

What's the best way to remove pet hair from bedding before washing?

Use a pet hair remover tool or vacuum with a brush attachment. You can also toss the bedding in the dryer on air-fluff for 10 minutes to loosen hair, then collect it from the lint trap. Pre-wash hair removal saves your machine and improves cleaning.

Products That Help

• Uproot Washing Machine Cleaner: Catalog price USD 8.40, comparison price USD 29.99. Regularly cleaning your washing machine with a dedicated cleaner helps remove lingering pet hair and odors, ensuring your pet's bedding comes out fresh and clean.
• Uproot Washing Machine Cleaner Pro: Catalog price USD 6.44, comparison price USD 22.99. This pro version offers a deeper clean for your machine, tackling buildup that can trap hair and bacteria—especially useful for pet owners who wash bedding frequently.

Washing your pet's bedding regularly is a simple yet powerful way to maintain a clean home and keep your furry friend healthy. By following a consistent schedule and using the right products—like Uproot's washing machine cleaners—you can ensure every nap is fresh and cozy. Remember to adjust frequency based on your pet's needs and always check care labels for best results.