Why Does My Dog's Bed Smell? Washing and Deodorising Tips

Quick answer

Most dog bed smells come from trapped oils, saliva, and bacteria in the fabric and cushion. Wash removable covers and inner cushions regularly at 30°C, dry thoroughly, and use a waterproof inner cushion cover to stop odours soaking into the foam. If the smell persists after deep cleaning, replace the cushion or cover.

Why does your dog's bed smell?

Dog beds collect more than fur. Natural oils from your dog's skin, saliva, and tiny food crumbs sink into the fabric and cushion. Over time, bacteria break these down and create that musty, doggy odour. Moisture from drooling, wet paws, or accidents speeds up the process, so beds used outdoors or by older dogs tend to smell faster.

The type of filling matters too. Solid foam cushions hold smells less than loose fibre fillings, but they are harder to rinse fully. If your bed has a non-removable inner cushion, the odour can become trapped deep inside, making regular cleaning difficult.

How to wash and deodorise a dog bed

Start by removing all loose hair and debris. Vacuum the bed and cushion thoroughly, paying attention to seams. Check the care label: most covers and inner cushion covers are machine washable at 30°C, but always confirm the temperature and drying method. Use a mild, pet-safe detergent and avoid fabric softeners, which can leave a residue that attracts dirt.

For stubborn odours, add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle or soak the cover in a baking soda solution before washing. Both are natural deodorisers and safe for most fabrics. After washing, air dry completely. Damp fabric is a breeding ground for bacteria, so make sure the bed is fully dry before putting it back together.

If the inner cushion itself cannot be washed, spot clean it with an enzymatic cleaner designed for pet messes. These break down the proteins in urine and saliva that cause lingering smells. You can also sprinkle baking soda over the cushion, leave it for a few hours, then vacuum it off.

When washing isn't enough

If you have washed the cover and cleaned the cushion but the smell still lingers, the odour has likely soaked into the foam or filling. At that point, further washing may not help and can even damage the bed. Consider replacing the inner cushion or the entire bed. A waterproof inner cushion cover can prevent this situation by stopping moisture and oils from reaching the foam in the first place.

Also think about your dog's grooming and health. Regular brushing reduces the oils and loose fur that end up in the bed. If your dog has a skin condition or is incontinent, a waterproof cover is a practical addition that makes cleaning easier and extends the life of the bed.

Diagnosis: Is it the cover, the cushion, or the bed?

• Symptom: A musty or doggy smell that returns quickly even after cleaning. Identify whether the smell comes from the cover, the inner cushion, or the whole bed.
• Likely cause: Trapped oils, saliva, and bacteria in the fabric or foam, often worsened by moisture. Check if the bed has a removable cover and whether the inner cushion is waterproof.
• Corrective action: Wash removable covers at 30°C, air dry fully, and use an enzymatic cleaner or baking soda for stubborn odours. If the smell persists after a full wash and dry, the foam may be saturated.
• Stop or choose another option: Stop washing if the odour remains after deep cleaning. Replace the inner cushion or the bed, and consider adding a waterproof inner cushion cover for the future. A waterproof cover is a simple preventive step that keeps the bed fresher for longer.

Products that help keep your dog's bed fresh

• Classic Snuggle Sack Dog Bed waterproof inner cushion cover: Snuggle Sack Dog Cave Bed waterproof inner cushion covers fit over the inner cushion and are ideal for dogs who suffer incontinence. They are machine washable at 30°C and should be air dried. Using a waterproof inner cushion cover protects the foam from moisture and odours, so you only need to wash the cover instead of trying to deep-clean the cushion. This makes regular deodorising much simpler and helps the bed last longer.