Does your dog’s bed sometimes smell… a little… *less than fresh*? You love your furry friend, but their favorite napping spot can quickly become a magnet for dirt, dander, and those mysterious wet-dog odors. Washing dog bedding seems simple, but picking the wrong detergent can cause big problems. Harsh chemicals might irritate your dog’s sensitive skin, or worse, leave behind residues that they lick off later.
It is a real headache trying to find a product that cleans deeply without irritating your pet. You need something strong enough to banish odors but gentle enough for your beloved companion. Choosing the perfect detergent matters for your dog’s health and the longevity of their bedding.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore exactly what ingredients matter and which ones to avoid. You will learn the secrets to choosing a detergent that leaves bedding sparkling clean and completely safe for your pup. Keep reading to transform laundry day and give your dog the clean, comfy rest they deserve.
Top Detergent To Wash Dog Bedding Recommendations
- Concentrated Powder Detergent: ACTIVE Pet Detergent is a Powerful, High Efficiency Compatible Odor Destroyer & Stain Eliminating Detergent. Every Scoop has a Natural Cleaning Power to Handle any Mess, Stain, or Smell left behind by your pet.
- Suitable for all Pet Laundry: Including Pet Bed, Clothing, Leash, Harness, Blankets, Towels, Furniture Covers & More! ACTIVE is an All-in-One Laundry Detergent Compatible With All Fabric Types, Even Use on your own Clothing and Bedding that smells like your pet!
- Bio Based Enzyme Cleaner: ACTIVE Enzyme Laundry Detergent is Formulated to Target Pesky Stains and Odors, Including Pet Urine, Cat & Dog Pee, Vomit, Slobber, Dirt, Grime, Oils and Protein Stains. ACTIVE Enzymes even get rid of Wet Dog Odor, and others stubborn scents
- Natural & Fragrance Free: ACTIVE Pet Detergent is a Natural Laundry Stain Remover, Free of Harsh Chemicals and Gentle for Pets and Sensitive Skin. ACTIVE Actually Removes Odors rather than using scents to cover them up like some alternatives
- Best Value 64 Loads: Compare ACTIVE Dog Laundry Detergent to liquids that take up more space with less uses. Our Value Pack Comes in a Bulk 2 Lb bag so you can Keep Your Pet Laundry Taken Care Of!
- Get the dog off with DOGOFF! You’re probably thinking: Wow. Another laundry detergent option to choose from. But we’ve made the choice so simple, a dog could sniff out the awesomeness.
- Pet Safe - 100% safe for washing items such as towels, clothes, bedding, and more belonging to dogs, cats, and other pets.
- Naturally Derived, High-Powered Ingredients - Everything we use in our formulas is derived from nature. With super concentrated, biodegradable formulas, you can rest assured that you're using a product not only good for your doggo but also for the environment.
- Made by Grooming Supply Experts - We've been making products for the grooming industry for over 23 years, so we know a thing or two about high-quality pet products that perform. In fact, this professional-grade product was created with the grooming industry in mind!
- 1 oz = 128 loads! (Please note this product does not come with a scoop/cup)
- MULTI-ACTION MACHINE CARE BOOST: Our upgraded pet hair dissolver for washing machines is designed to help break down pet hair buildup more effectively during high-heat cleaning cycles. Under tested conditions, it helps dissolve up to 96.7% of pet hair while also helping descale residue and deodorize the drum. Now upgraded from 75 g to 100 g per sachet, it delivers more product per use for deeper washer care in pet hair homes.
- DEEP-CLEAN WITH TUB/SELF-CLEAN CYCLE: For best results, add the sachet of this hair dissolving laundry detergent directly to an empty drum and run Self / Tub Clean Mode using the hottest, longest compatible cycle (194°F+). High heat helps activate the hair dissolving laundry detergent formula so it can work more effectively on built-up hair residue, grime, and odor inside the washer.
- GENTLE FORMULA FOR WASHER CARE: Designed as a specialized pet hair dissolver for washing machine care, this formula may also be used on durable, machine-washable pet-care items that are compatible with the recommended wash conditions. Not recommended for cotton, linen, silk, wool, or delicate fabrics prone to fading. Avoid use on items labeled for cold-water wash only to help prevent damage or discoloration.
- FIRST USE DEEP CLEAN: For best results, use 2 sachets for the first application or for heavier buildup, including washer drum deep cleaning. Use 1 sachet for routine washer maintenance. A follow-up rinse cycle may help clear loosened residue after the first use.
- EXTENDED SUPPLY, CONSISTENT RESULTS: Rely on our pet hair dissolver for washing machine care as a simple month-by-month routine, with 6 pre-measured sachets (100g) providing a ready supply for up to half a year so you never run out mid-shed season, supporting steady hair dissolving laundry detergent performance for pet parents who prefer predictable, low-effort maintenance.
- Cleans & Deodorizes What Your Pet Loves Most: Uses naturally derived enzymes to help break down the messy stuff like drool, oils, and food stains on your pet’s favorite blankets, beds, and soft toys
- Odor Remover: Fragrance-free formula helps neutralize and eliminate dog and cat odors at the source, instead of masking them with synthetic scents like many conventional detergents
- Kind to Sensitive Skin: Hypoallergenic and made without dyes, added scents, phthalates, or sulfates; just a gentle clean you can feel good about using around allergy-prone pets and people
- Made Thoughtfully, Close to Home: Made in the USA with carefully chosen ingredients and packaged in a recyclable bottle; never tested on animals
- Concentrated Formula: Lasts up to 32 loads with no booster needed; use two capfuls for regular laundry or four capfuls for larger or heavily soiled loads; for deep stains or heavy messes, a separate pre-soak treatment may be helpful; to sanitize, follow your washer's sanitize cycle settings
- 96.7% EFFECTIVE PET HAIR DISSOLVER:Our advanced enzymatic formula is scientifically designed to dissolve away up to 96.7% of stubborn pet hair from fabrics in the wash. It breaks down hair deep within fibers, preventing clogging in your machines
- OXYGEN-POWERED STAIN & ODOR ELIMINATION: Targets and eliminates the source of tough stains and unpleasant odors with oxygen activation, leaving your laundry deeply cleaned and refreshed with a natural fragrance
- IDEAL FOR COLORFAST FABRICS & PRECISE USAGE INSTRUCTIONS: Specially formulated for colorfast cotton, polyester, and durable synthetic apparel. For best results, Use the "Tub/Self Clean" mode with water reaching 194°F. Not recommended for delicate wools, silks, leathers, or printed patterns
- MACHINE-SAFE & FABRIC-GUARD: The non-corrosive, additive-free powder is safe for all HE, top-load, and front-load washers. It gently cleans without damaging pumps or drains
- LINT ROLLER ALTERNATIVE: Prevents fuzz and fabric pilling caused by sticky lint rollers. Our low-abrasion enzymatic action loosens hair gently, extends clothing life, and protects delicate fabrics wash after wash
- Upgraded Pet Laundry Detergent – Pet Hair Separation: Up to 90% of fur is separated from fabrics for easy rinsing—no chemical breakdown of hair. This pet hair remover for laundry is ideal for cat and dog owners seeking a gentler alternative to harsh products. By reducing static and surface oils, it prevents clogs while preserving fabric integrity.
- Enzyme-Powered Stain Removal for Daily Messes: Formulated as a concentrated enzyme laundry detergent, this booster targets sweat, grease, oil, blood, and pet-related stains. Perfect for activewear, pet bedding, and uniforms—deep cleans without harsh chemicals.
- Flexible Dosage for Effective Pet-Hair Separation: Use 25 ml (0.85 fl oz) for up to 4 items or 50 ml (1.69 fl oz) for up to 8; select a high water level and add a brief pre-soak or extra rinse so our plant-based, cedar-scent detergent can detach stubborn fur, soften fabrics, and leave a long-lasting fresh fragrance (removes hair, does not dissolve it).
- Great for Clothing & Smaller Pet Bedding: This laundry pet hair remover excels with everyday clothing, blankets, and lighter bedding. For bulky pet beds, ensure enough space for water to circulate or consider hand‑washing. Hair that becomes separated inside thick padding may remain trapped without adequate water flow.
- Safe for Colors & Gentle on Skin: Made with plant‑based enzymes, it does not contain bleach, parabens, or dyes. We have no reports of fading or irritation, though sensitive users may run an extra rinse if needed. By focusing on gentle cleaning, this detergent addresses both odor and hair issues without harsh aftereffects.
- Keeps Fabrics Soft & Luxurious for Longer - Deep conditioning with lanolin restores natural softness and flexibility, leaving wool, cashmere, and sheepskin feeling plush and like new after every wash.
- Prevents Shrinking, Stiffness & Damage - pH-balanced (4.5–5.5) to match delicate fibers, protecting against shrinkage and maintaining long-term softness and durability.
- Wash Delicates with Total Ease - Works perfectly for both hand and machine washing, with a low-sudsing formula that cleans effectively even in cold water.
- Get More Washes, Better Value - Highly concentrated formula delivers up to 30 washes per bottle, reducing waste while saving you money over time.
- Gentle on Skin, Tough on Irritants - Free from allergens, phosphates, and harsh chemicals, making it safe for sensitive skin and delicate fabrics.
- Upgraded Pet Laundry Detergent – Pet Hair Separation: Up to 90% of fur is separated from fabrics for easy rinsing—no chemical breakdown of hair. This pet hair remover for laundry is ideal for cat and dog owners seeking a gentler alternative to harsh products. By reducing static and surface oils, it prevents clogs while preserving fabric integrity.
- Enzyme-Powered Stain Removal for Daily Messes: Formulated as a concentrated enzyme laundry detergent, this booster targets sweat, grease, oil, blood, and pet-related stains. Perfect for activewear, pet bedding, and uniforms—deep cleans without harsh chemicals.
- Flexible Dosage for Effective Pet-Hair Separation: Use 25 ml (0.85 fl oz) for up to 4 items or 50 ml (1.69 fl oz) for up to 8; select a high water level and add a brief pre-soak or extra rinse so our plant-based, cedar-scent detergent can detach stubborn fur, soften fabrics, and leave a long-lasting fresh fragrance (removes hair, does not dissolve it).
- Great for Clothing & Smaller Pet Bedding: This laundry pet hair remover excels with everyday clothing, blankets, and lighter bedding. For bulky pet beds, ensure enough space for water to circulate or consider hand‑washing. Hair that becomes separated inside thick padding may remain trapped without adequate water flow.
- Safe for Colors & Gentle on Skin: Made with plant‑based enzymes, it does not contain bleach, parabens, or dyes. We have no reports of fading or irritation, though sensitive users may run an extra rinse if needed. By focusing on gentle cleaning, this detergent addresses both odor and hair issues without harsh aftereffects.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Washing Your Dog’s Bedding Right
Dog beds get dirty fast. They hold onto fur, mud, and odors. Choosing the right detergent is key to keeping them clean and safe for your furry friend. This guide helps you pick the best cleaner for that smelly dog bed.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for detergent, look for these main features. They make washing easier and safer.
- **Odor Elimination:** The best detergents don’t just mask smells; they destroy them. Look for terms like “enzyme-based” or “odor-fighting.”
- **Pet-Safe Formula:** This is crucial. The detergent must not contain harsh chemicals that could irritate your dog’s skin. Avoid strong perfumes and dyes.
- **Concentration Level:** Concentrated detergents let you use less product per load. This saves money over time.
- **Compatibility with Washers:** Check if the detergent works well in standard washing machines and high-efficiency (HE) models.
Important Materials: What’s Inside Matters
The ingredients list tells you a lot about the detergent’s power and safety.
Good Materials:
- Enzymes: These tiny helpers break down organic matter like dirt, slobber, and pet waste. They are great for deep cleaning.
- Plant-Derived Surfactants: These help lift dirt from the fabric gently. They are usually safer than harsh petroleum-based cleaners.
- Natural Scents (or Unscented): If you choose a scented option, make sure the scent comes from essential oils, not synthetic perfumes. Many experts recommend unscented options entirely.
Materials to Avoid:
- Phosphates: These harm the environment. Many good brands skip them now.
- Bleach and Optical Brighteners: Bleach can damage fabric fibers. Brighteners leave a residue that might irritate sensitive skin.
- Heavy Perfumes: Strong floral or artificial scents often bother a dog’s sensitive nose.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the clean depends on what you use and how you use it.
Improving Quality:
- Pre-treating Stains: For muddy spots or accidents, apply a small amount of the detergent directly onto the stain before washing. Let it sit for five minutes.
- Using Warm Water: Warm water helps the detergent activate fully, especially enzyme cleaners. (Always check the bed’s care tag first!)
- Double Rinsing: Run an extra rinse cycle. This ensures no soap residue remains deep in the thick stuffing.
Reducing Quality:
- Using Too Much Detergent: Overusing soap creates excessive suds. These suds trap dirt instead of rinsing it away. They also leave a sticky film.
- Using Fabric Softener: Never use fabric softener on dog bedding. It coats the fibers, trapping odors inside the material.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the detergent affects your overall experience.
Daily Use vs. Deep Clean:
If you use a removable cover, you might wash that weekly with a standard dose of pet-safe detergent. For the entire, bulky bed (especially if it has stuffing), you need a heavy-duty, odor-eliminating formula. Use the full recommended amount for these deep cleans. You want the water to penetrate the thick foam or stuffing.
The Unscented Advantage: Many owners find that choosing an unscented detergent is the best user experience. Your dog smells clean, not like lavender or mountain fresh. This prevents your pet from licking or chewing the bed excessively due to a new, strong smell.
Dog Bedding Detergent FAQ
Q: Can I use my regular laundry detergent on my dog’s bed?
A: You can, but it is not ideal. Regular detergents often contain perfumes and brighteners that might irritate your dog’s skin or nose. Look for a formula specifically made for pets.
Q: How often should I wash my dog’s bed?
A: Aim to wash removable covers every 1-2 weeks. Wash the entire, bulky bed every 4 to 6 weeks, or immediately after any accidents.
Q: What is the best way to handle strong urine odors?
A: Use an enzyme-based detergent. Enzymes actively break down the uric acid crystals that cause the persistent smell. Wash in the warmest water the fabric allows.
Q: Should I use fabric softener with dog bedding detergent?
A: No. Fabric softener coats the fibers, which traps dirt and odors inside the fabric. It reduces the detergent’s cleaning power over time.
Q: Are “natural” detergents always better?
A: Natural detergents are often gentler, but make sure they still contain strong cleaning agents like enzymes. “Natural” does not always mean “powerful enough” for heavy dog messes.
Q: What if my dog has allergies?
A: If your dog has allergies, choose detergents labeled “Hypoallergenic” and “Fragrance-Free.” Perform a spot test on a small, hidden area of the bed first.
Q: How much detergent should I use for a very large bed?
A: Check the detergent bottle for “heavy load” or “extra dirty” instructions. For very bulky beds, you may need to use slightly more than a standard load measurement to ensure the soap penetrates the stuffing.
Q: Can I dry the bed in a machine dryer after washing?
A: Always check the bed’s care tag. If you use high heat, foam or stuffing materials can break down. Low heat or air drying is often recommended for longevity.
Q: Does the detergent need to be HE compatible?
A: Yes, if you own a High-Efficiency (HE) washing machine. HE machines use less water, so you must use HE-specific, low-sudsing detergents to prevent machine damage.
Q: What if the detergent leaves residue?
A: If you notice stiffness or a white film, you are using too much soap. Run the bed through a second rinse cycle immediately to flush out the excess product.