Summer may be fun for walks and playtime, but it also means more dirt, more shedding, and more smells. Your dog’s bed becomes a hotspot for sweat, bacteria, and outdoor grime during the warmer months.
If you have ever walked into a room and caught a whiff of dog bed funk, you are not alone. The good news is that keeping your dog’s bed clean and fresh this summer is easier than you think.
Here is your complete guide to summer dog bed hygiene, plus a look at GauGauPet’s washable dog beds designed to make your life cleaner and your pet more comfortable.
Start the season fresh—remove and wash bed covers weekly to prevent odor and bacteria buildup.
Why Summer Requires Extra Cleaning
More Shedding and Sweat
When temperatures rise, your dog sheds more and sweats more. Unlike humans, dogs sweat mostly through their paws and bellies. That moisture gets absorbed by the bed, especially if it is not made with breathable or quick-dry materials.
This leads to:
- Odor buildup
- Bacterial growth
- Stained fabrics
Outdoor Dirt and Allergens
If your dog spends time outside, their bed is also catching all that backyard or park dirt.
Common summer messes include:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Muddy paws
- Fleas or mites
All of these settle into the fibers of the bed, especially in the corners or under the cushion.
Step by Step Guide to Cleaning a Dog Bed
Keeping your dog’s bed clean should be part of your weekly summer routine. Follow these easy steps:
-
Remove the cover
Most quality dog beds come with a removable outer layer. Take it off and shake out loose dirt outside. -
Machine wash with pet-safe detergent
Use hot water and a detergent made for sensitive skin or pets. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. -
Vacuum the inner foam or cushion
Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to suck out fur, crumbs, and dirt hiding inside the bed base. -
Deodorize with baking soda
Sprinkle baking soda onto the foam, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then vacuum again. -
Air dry in direct sunlight
Sunlight naturally kills bacteria and eliminates odor. Avoid dryers unless the care label says it is safe.
Let foam cores and bed inserts air dry in the sun to eliminate moisture and kill germs naturally.
How Often Should You Clean It in Summer
In warmer months, your cleaning schedule should increase.
- Once a week for active dogs or those that go outdoors
- Twice a month for indoor-only pets
- Right away after muddy adventures or accidents
If your dog bed starts to smell even after cleaning, or if the fabric is torn and holding moisture, it might be time to replace it with a new washable dog bed.
Read more: Why Orthopedic Foam Matters in Senior Dog Beds
Features to Look For in a Summer Washable Dog Bed
The right dog bed makes cleaning easier and keeps your home smelling fresh.
Look for these features:
- Removable covers that unzip easily
- Machine washable materials that hold up to frequent washing
- Quick dry fabric that does not stay damp
- Odor control liners or waterproof inserts
- Hypoallergenic fabric to reduce reactions to dust and dander
All of these features come standard in GauGauPet’s summer-ready beds.
GauGauPet Summer Washable Beds
At GauGauPet, we designed our washable dog beds for the messes of real life. Whether it is sand from a beach trip or sweat after a sunny walk, our beds are made to handle it all.
Key Features
- Washable zippered cover
- Water resistant inner lining
- Odor control foam core
- Lightweight and breathable design
- Stylish enough to match your home decor
No more stinky beds this summer.
Browse our Washable Dog Beds Collection to find the right fit for your pup.
Final Thoughts Summer Clean Means Summer Comfort
Dogs deserve a clean place to rest, especially during summer when everything seems stickier and sweatier. A dirty bed can impact your dog’s health, attract pests, and fill your house with unwanted smells.
By following a regular cleaning routine and investing in a washable, odor resistant dog bed, you are giving your pet the clean comfort they need—and your home a fresh summer feel.
Shop cleanable beds built for hot days at GauGauPet.com
FAQs
1.How often should I clean my dog bed in summer
Once a week is ideal for active or outdoor dogs. Indoor-only pets may need a cleaning every two weeks.
2. Can I put a dog bed in the washing machine
Yes, if it has a removable washable cover. Always follow the care label instructions.
3. What detergent is safe for dog beds
Use fragrance free, pet-safe detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals.
4. How do I remove odors from a dog bed
Use baking soda to deodorize foam or fabric, and air dry it in the sun to kill bacteria.
5. Is it okay to air dry a dog bed in the sun
Yes. In fact, sunlight is a natural disinfectant and helps keep your dog bed fresh.