How to Clean Foam Dog Bed
Are you a pet parent overwhelmed by the task of shampooing and cleaning your beloved companion’s foam dog bed? You are not alone! Many of us know all too well how difficult it can be to keep our pets’ sleeping spaces clean, especially if we don’t have access to professional resources or the finances necessary to purchase a new one.
Fortunately, cleaning a foam dog bed is easy once you understand some of the crucial steps involved in caring for it properly. In this blog post, I will walk through each step on how to clean foam dog bed so that your furry friend can enjoy their most comfortable space every day – squeaky clean, and odor-free!
Can You Wash Foam Padding on a Dog Bed?
Yes, you can wash foam padding on a dog bed. The best way to do this is to use mild detergent and warm water. Once the foam is thoroughly saturated with soapy water, scrub it gently with a soft brush or cloth. Be sure to rinse the foam well after washing. You may also want to add an appropriate fabric softener in the final rinse cycle for extra fluffiness and comfort. Allow the foam padding to air dries completely before putting it back on the bed.
It’s important to note that some foams are sensitive to heat, so be sure not to use hot water or place it near heating elements while drying. Additionally, never put your foam padding in the dryer, as high heat can damage and break down the foam. With proper cleaning and care, your dog’s bed will look like new in no time!
When it comes to removing stains from foam padding on a dog bed, always start with the gentlest cleaning method possible. Try spot-cleaning the area with a mild detergent or an enzyme cleaner specifically formulated for pet beds. If that doesn’t work, you can try soaking the affected area in warm water and detergent, then scrubbing gently with an old toothbrush.
For tougher stains, you may need to use a more powerful cleaner such as bleach or vinegar. Be sure to test any cleaners on a small area of the foam first before applying them over larger areas. Additionally, make sure to rinse the foam thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue. If you’re still not happy with the results, it may be time to get a replacement dog bed.
By following these tips and taking proper care of your dog bed’s foam padding, it can last for years. Keeping your pet’s bed clean and comfortable will make both them and you happy!
10 Methods How to Clean Foam Dog Bed
1. Washing Machine
One of the easiest ways to clean a foam dog bed is to put it in the washing machine. You can use either cold or warm water, and you can add a mild detergent if desired. It is important to use a gentle cycle so that the bed does not get damaged.
You may also want to put the bed in a pillowcase or laundry bag to prevent it from getting tangled in the washing machine. After the wash cycle is complete, you can dry it in the dryer on low heat or put it out to air-dry. If you have an extra-large bed, it may be best to take it to a laundromat and put it in the commercial-grade washers.
2. Vacuum Cleaner
Another easy way to clean a foam dog bed is to vacuum it with a handheld vacuum cleaner or an attachment to your regular vacuum cleaner. This will help to remove any dirt, dust, or hair that may be on the bed. If you have an attachment for your vacuum cleaner, you may want to use the upholstery attachment so that you do not damage the bed.
If you don’t have an attachment, you can use the vacuum cleaner directly. Make sure to focus on any areas that may have become particularly dirty or dusty, like around the seams and along the edges of the bed. After you are done vacuuming, use a brush to fluff up the foam material of the bed. This will help it look and feel like new!
3. Soap and Water
If your foam dog bed is not too dirty, you can simply clean it with soap and water. Use mild soap and dampen a cloth with water. Rub the cloth over the entire surface of the bed, being sure to get into all of the crevices.
Rinse the bed off with clean water and allow it to air dry. If the bed has an odor, you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the water before you begin cleaning. Be sure not to saturate the bed with water, as this could damage the foam. When the bed is dry, fluff it up and place it back in your pup’s favorite spot.
4. Vinegar and Water
If your foam dog bed is dirtier, you can make a cleaning solution with vinegar and water. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a bowl or spray bottle. Apply the solution to the bed and scrub with a brush or cloth until all of the dirt and grime are gone.
Rinse the bed off with clean water and allow it to air dry. The vinegar solution will naturally sanitize the bed and help deodorize it. For tougher stains, use a stronger vinegar solution such as 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water. This solution may take more effort to scrub, but it will be stronger and can help remove tough stains.
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda is another great way to clean a foam dog bed. Simply sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of the bed, being sure to get into all of the crevices. Allow the baking soda to sit on the bed for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum it up. You may need to repeat this process if the bed is very dirty. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the baking soda for an extra fresh scent. Once you’re finished, your dog will have a clean and refreshed bed!
6. Dry Cleaning
If your foam dog bed is made of delicate fabric or if it is very dirty, you may need to take it to a professional dry cleaner. Be sure to tell them that it is a foam dog bed so that they can use the proper cleaning method. If possible, take the cover off before you take it to the dry cleaner. They may be able to safely clean the foam in a special dry cleaning machine. Once it is cleaned and dried, put the cover back on before you give it back to your pet.
7. Spot Cleaning
If your dog bed only needs a light cleaning, you can spot-clean it with a damp cloth and some mild detergent. You will want to focus on any areas where there is dirt or hair build-up and avoid getting the foam too wet. Once you have finished spot cleaning, you can either let the bed air dry or put it in the dryer on low heat.
8. Deep Cleaning
If your dog bed needs a more thorough cleaning, you can deep clean it by soaking it in a solution of water and vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will help to remove any odors from the bed.
After soaking for at least an hour, you can rinse the bed off with clean water and let it air dry. Be sure to check the instructions for your specific dog bed before attempting a deep clean. Additionally, be sure not to use any type of bleach on foam dog beds, as this can damage or discolor the bed.
9. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another natural disinfectant that can be used to clean a foam dog bed. Simply mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and mist over the entire surface of the bed. Let the lemon juice solution sit for at least 10 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. You can also add lemon juice to your washing machine when cleaning the bed in order to freshen it up even more.
10. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another natural disinfectant that can be used to clean a foam dog bed. Simply mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle and mist over the entire surface of the bed. Let the hydrogen peroxide solution sit for at least 10 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the bed with clean water after using hydrogen peroxide to avoid any potential irritation to your dog’s skin.
Conclusion
After you have given your dog’s foam bed a thorough wash, be sure to let it completely dry before replacing it on the floor. This will reduce the risk of having a smelly bed or mold growing on the bed. Cleaning your pet’s foam bed does not have to be a daunting task!
With these simple steps, you can quickly tackle this job with ease and comfort for both yourself and your beloved pet. Now go ahead and give your furry friend’s mattress a proper clean – they deserve nothing less than coziness in their own happy place! Have fun tackling How to Clean Foam Dog Bed!
Angela Ervin
Angela is the executive editor of DIY quickly. She began her career as an interior designer before applying her strategic and creative passion to lifestyle and home. She has close to 15 years of experience in creative writing and online content strategy for housekeeping, home decorations as well as other niche efforts. She loves her job and has the privilege of working with an extraordinary team. She lives with her husband, two sons, and daughter in Petersburg. When she's not busy working she spent time with her family.
