Pets spend hours sleeping on their beds, cuddling with blankets, and playing with toys. Over time, these items collect dirt, saliva, oils, bacteria, and odors that can affect both your pet’s health and your home’s cleanliness. Learning how to clean your pet’s bedding and toys the right way keeps your environment fresh, reduces allergens, and helps your pet stay healthy and comfortable.

Why Cleaning Pet Bedding and Toys Is Essential

Your pet’s favorite bed or plush bear may seem harmless, but over time these items can trap harmful substances.

Germs, Bacteria & Parasites

Bedding and toys collect:

Saliva
Skin oils
Dirt from outdoors
Flea eggs
Dust mites
Bacteria such as E. coli and staph

If not cleaned properly, these pollutants can trigger infections, allergies, or digestive issues.

Allergens & Odor Sources

The main causes of persistent “pet odor” are:

Dander buildup
Dampness or drool
Urine spots
Food residue on toys

Regular cleaning eliminates these odor-causing compounds naturally.

Types of Pet Bedding and How to Clean Each One

Not all pet beds can be tossed into the washing machine. Understanding which method fits helps extend the life of your pet’s bedding.

Machine-Washable Bedding

Most modern beds include:

Removable covers
Polyester filling
Cotton fabrics

These are the easiest to clean.

Steps:

Remove the cover and shake outdoors.
Pre-treat stains using vinegar + baking soda.
Wash on a gentle cycle with hot water to kill bacteria.
Use fragrance-free detergent.
Air dry to maintain shape.

Foam & Orthopedic Beds

These beds cannot usually be machine washed.

How to clean:

Remove the outer cover and wash separately.
Fill a bathtub with warm water + mild castile soap.
Submerge the foam bed and press to release dirt.
Rinse thoroughly.
Air dry in a ventilated area for 24–48 hours.
Never use high heat—it warps foam.

Waterproof or Outdoor Pet Beds

These often trap moisture inside.

Cleaning tips:

Spray with vinegar + water.
Wipe down using a microfiber cloth.
Ensure beds fully dry to prevent mildew.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

Not all cleaners are pet-safe—some may irritate skin or lungs.

Pet-Safe Detergents

Choose:

Hypoallergenic
Dye-free
Fragrance-free
Plant-based detergents

Artificial fragrances can cause itching, sneezing, or skin irritation.

Natural Alternatives

Safe DIY cleaning agents:

White vinegar (neutralizes odors)
Baking soda (absorbs smells and stains)
Castile soap (gentle, plant-based)
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) for disinfecting tough stains

Dangerous Chemicals to Avoid

Never use:

Bleach
Phenols
Ammonia
Fabric softeners
Scent beads

These can leave toxic residue that irritates your pet’s skin or paws.

Step-by-Step Guide: Washing Pet Bedding Properly

1. Pre-Treat Stains

Mix:

2 tbsp baking soda
1 tbsp water
1 tbsp vinegar

Apply the foamy paste to stains. Let sit 10–20 minutes.

2. Machine Washing Techniques

Use hot water for sanitizing (unless fabric tag warns otherwise).
Add ½ cup vinegar to the rinse cycle.
Wash bedding separately—pet hair clogs laundry.
Use an extra rinse cycle for sensitive pets.

3. Drying Bedding the Right Way

Air dry larger beds to prevent shrinking.
Use low heat if machine drying.
Add wool dryer balls (no scented sheets!) to fluff fabric.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pet’s Bedding?

Cleaning frequency depends on lifestyle and shedding.

Once a Week

Recommended for:

Dogs who go outdoors
Pets with allergies
Cats who shed often

Every 2 Weeks

Works for:

Indoor-only cats
Low-shedding dogs

Monthly

OK for:

Secondary blankets
Spare beds

Frequent washing improves hygiene and reduces home odors.

Cleaning Soft Pet Toys

Soft toys accumulate saliva and bacteria quickly.

Machine-Washing Plush Toys

If a label says machine-safe:

Place toys in a mesh laundry bag
Use hot water
Use mild detergent
Add vinegar to disinfect naturally
Air dry to preserve shape

Hand-Washing Plush Toys

For delicate or squeaky toys:

Fill sink with warm water + castile soap
Soak 10 minutes
Scrub gently
Rinse until water is clear
Dry completely before use

Damp toys grow bacteria!

Cleaning Hard Pet Toys

Hard toys trap drool and dirt inside cracks.

Deep Cleaning Rubber Toys

Best for Kong, rubber bones, or balls:

Mix warm water + vinegar (1:1)
Soak toys 20 minutes
Scrub using a bottle brush
Rinse thoroughly

Treat-Dispensing Toys

Toys with food residue must be cleaned carefully.

Steps:

Remove leftover food.
Use a brush to scrub inside.
Soak in warm soapy water.
Rinse until clean.
Air dry upside down.

Natural Cleaning Solutions for Pet Bedding & Toys

Vinegar Solutions

Mix:

1 cup vinegar
2 cups warm water

Spray on fabrics or toys to neutralize odors.

Baking Soda Paste

Best for urine stains and drool marks.

Recipe:

2 tbsp baking soda
1 tsp water

Apply, sit 20 minutes, wipe.

Lemon & Castile Soap Mix

Great for toys and bowls.

1 tbsp castile soap
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 quart warm water

Not for cats (citrus sensitivity).

Preventing Pet Bedding Odors Between Washes

Daily Sprays & Refreshers

Use a natural deodorizing spray:

Water
Vinegar
A few drops of pet-safe lavender (dogs only)

Spray lightly between washes.

Proper Ventilation

Sunlight kills odor-causing bacteria.
Place beds near windows or outdoors once a week.

Also check: How to Reduce Pet Odor Naturally at Home

Signs It’s Time to Replace Bedding or Toys

Cleaning isn’t always enough.

Torn Seams & Damaged Foam

Your pet may ingest stuffing—dangerous for digestion.

Mold or Lingering Odors

Once mold sets in, it’s safest to replace the item.

FAQs

1. Can I use bleach to clean pet bedding?
No—bleach is harsh, toxic, and can irritate skin and paws.

2. How do I remove urine smell naturally?
Use vinegar + baking soda + hot water wash.

3. Are dryer sheets safe for pet bedding?
No. Residue can irritate skin and cause allergies.

4. How often should toys be cleaned?
Weekly for hard toys; every 1–2 weeks for soft toys.

5. Can I put squeaky toys in the washer?
Yes, if labeled machine-safe. Otherwise hand-wash gently.

6. What if my pet has skin allergies?
Use hypoallergenic detergent and rinse twice.

Conclusion

Keeping your pet’s bedding and toys clean is one of the easiest ways to promote hygiene, reduce odors, and protect your furry friend’s overall health. With natural cleaners, consistent routines, and the right techniques, you can maintain a fresh, safe environment without harsh chemicals.

A clean space means a happier home—for both you and your pet.