Does your furry friend’s favorite bed seem to hold onto odors no matter how often you wash it? You’re not alone! We all want our dogs to have a clean, cozy place to rest, but choosing the right detergent for their bedding can feel like a puzzle. So many choices flood the shelves, and it’s tough to know which ones are truly safe and effective for your beloved pet.
The wrong detergent can leave behind harsh chemicals that might irritate your dog’s skin or even make them sick. Plus, some detergents just don’t tackle those stubborn pet smells. That’s where this guide comes in! We’re here to break down what you need to look for, helping you avoid common mistakes and find a detergent that works wonders.
By the end of this post, you’ll be a pro at picking the perfect detergent. You’ll learn how to get those beds smelling fresh and feeling clean, all while keeping your dog safe and happy. Let’s dive in and discover the best ways to make your dog’s bedding sparkle!
Our Top 5 Detergent To Wash Dog Bedding Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Detergent To Wash Dog Bedding Detailed Reviews
1. Pet Laundry Detergent Odor Remover – ACTIVE Enzyme Based Powder Detergent for Dogs Beds
Rating: 9.1/10
Say goodbye to pet odors and stains with ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent! This powerful, enzyme-based powder tackles everything from dog drool to cat pee, leaving your pet’s belongings smelling fresh and looking clean. It’s tough on messes but gentle on fabrics, making it a must-have for any pet parent.
What We Like:
- It’s a concentrated powder, so a little goes a long way. You get 64 loads from one bag, which is a great value.
- The active enzymes really break down tough pet stains and odors. It works on urine, vomit, slobber, and even that “wet dog” smell.
- This detergent is safe for all your pet’s laundry, from their beds and blankets to leashes and furniture covers. It’s also safe for your own clothes and bedding.
- It’s a natural cleaner, meaning no harsh chemicals. This is good for your pets and for people with sensitive skin.
- ACTIVE removes smells instead of just hiding them with perfumes.
- It’s HE washer friendly, so it works in most modern washing machines.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s natural, some users might prefer a scented option for an extra layer of fragrance.
- As a powder, it requires measuring each scoop, which some might find slightly less convenient than liquid detergents.
This ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent is a fantastic solution for keeping your home and your pet’s items fresh and clean. It offers a powerful, natural way to handle common pet messes.
2. TropiClean Flea and Tick Laundry Additive
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of pesky fleas and ticks taking over your home and bothering your furry friends? The TropiClean Flea and Tick Laundry Additive is here to help! This powerful laundry booster works wonders by eliminating these unwanted guests from your pet’s belongings in just one wash. It’s designed to be safe for your dogs and cats, using natural active ingredients you can trust.
What We Like:
- Tough on pests: It kills ticks, fleas, larvae, and eggs in a single wash.
- Pet-safe formula: Uses natural ingredients, so you can clean blankets, towels, pet beds, rugs, and soft toys without worry.
- Pleasant scent: An essential oil blend leaves a fresh citrus aroma after washing.
- Easy to use: Just add ½ cup per load with your regular detergent.
- Effective treatment: Ensures a pest-free home with every wash.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires soaking: For best results, laundry needs to soak for 10-15 minutes, which adds extra time to the wash cycle.
- Concentrated use: Only ½ cup is needed per load, so the 32oz bottle might last a while, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully.
This laundry additive offers a simple yet effective way to combat fleas and ticks. Give your pet’s favorite items a deep clean and enjoy a more comfortable, pest-free environment. It’s a great solution for pet owners looking for natural and powerful cleaning options.
3. Dunkive Pet Laundry Scent Booster Odor Remover
Rating: 9.4/10
Dealing with pet odors and stains can be a real challenge, but the Dunkive Pet Laundry Scent Booster Odor Remover is here to help. This product promises to tackle everything from dog beds to cat pee, leaving your laundry smelling fresh and clean. It’s designed to be safe for all your fabrics and gentle enough for pets, making laundry day a little less stinky.
What We Like:
- It’s safe for all fabrics and safe for pets, so you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals.
- The scent beads work great to remove tough pet odors like urine and drool, leaving clothes smelling naturally fresh.
- The fragrance lasts a long time thanks to special technology that locks in the scent.
- The packaging is eco-friendly and reusable, which is good for the planet.
- It’s super easy to use – just toss the beads in with your laundry.
- The beads dissolve completely in any water temperature, leaving no messy residue.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description could be a little shorter and easier to read.
- We’d love to know more about the specific natural fragrances used.
This scent booster is a helpful tool for pet owners. It makes tackling pet messes in the wash much simpler and leaves your laundry smelling delightful.
4. Poochie Suds Pet Laundry Detergent
Rating: 8.9/10
Dealing with pet messes is part of the fun of having furry friends. Poochie Suds Pet Laundry Detergent is designed to tackle those common pet-related laundry challenges. This detergent uses special enzymes to break down tough stains and odors from your pet’s favorite items. It’s made to be safe for your pets and your home.
What We Like:
- Effectively cleans and removes odors from pet bedding, blankets, and toys.
- Uses natural enzymes to break down stains like drool and food.
- Fragrance-free formula eliminates odors instead of covering them up.
- Hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals like dyes, phthalates, and sulfates, making it gentle for sensitive skin.
- Made in the USA with a commitment to animal safety (never tested on animals).
- Concentrated formula means a little goes a long way, lasting up to 32 loads.
- Works well in both high-efficiency and traditional washing machines.
- Rinses clean without leaving residue and is safe for septic systems.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very deep stains or heavily soiled items, a separate pre-soak treatment might be needed.
Poochie Suds offers a thorough and gentle cleaning solution for all your pet’s belongings. It’s a great option for pet owners who want a reliable way to keep their home fresh and their pets’ items clean.
5. Seedshub Pet Hair Remover for Laundry
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of pet hair clinging to your clothes and bedding after every wash? The Seedshub Pet Hair Remover for Laundry offers a unique, 6-in-1 solution designed specifically for pet owners. This non-dissolving formula uses plant-based enzymes to gently separate up to 90% of fur from fabrics, leaving them cleaner and fresher with a pleasant cedar scent. It’s a powerful yet gentle way to tackle daily pet messes, odors, and those stubborn stains.
What We Like:
- Effectively separates up to 90% of pet fur from fabrics without dissolving it.
- Uses enzyme-powered cleaning to tackle tough stains like sweat, grease, and blood.
- Gentle on colors and fabrics, with no harsh chemicals like bleach, parabens, or dyes.
- Reduces static and surface oils, preventing clogs in your washing machine.
- Leaves clothes and bedding with a long-lasting, fresh cedar fragrance.
- Trusted by experienced sellers and over 1,000 pet households.
- Eco-conscious approach that preserves fabric integrity and reduces drain clogs.
What Could Be Improved:
- May require specific washing machine settings (high water, extra rinse) for optimal hair removal.
- Less effective on bulky pet beds where water circulation is limited.
- Should not be mixed with bleach during the main wash cycle.
This Seedshub detergent is a smart choice for pet parents looking for a gentle yet effective way to keep their laundry free of fur and odors. It offers a kinder alternative to traditional methods, ensuring your clothes look and feel their best.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Keeping Your Dog’s Bed Fresh and Clean
A clean dog bed means a happy, healthy dog. But washing dog bedding can be a challenge. You need a detergent that works hard without harming your furry friend. This guide helps you choose the best detergent for the job.
Key Features to Look For
1. Gentle Formulas
Your dog’s skin is sensitive. Look for detergents that are free from harsh chemicals. This includes dyes and artificial fragrances. These can irritate your dog’s skin. They might cause itching or allergic reactions. A gentle formula is always best.
2. Odor Neutralization
Dog beds can get stinky! Choose a detergent that doesn’t just mask odors. It should eliminate them. Enzymes are great for this. They break down the molecules that cause smells. This leaves the bedding truly fresh.
3. Hypoallergenic Properties
Many dogs have allergies. A hypoallergenic detergent helps prevent reactions. Look for labels that state “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin.” This is a good sign.
4. Stain Removal Power
Accidents happen. Mud, drool, and food can stain dog beds. A good detergent will tackle these stains effectively. Look for formulas designed for tough messes.
5. Machine Washable Compatibility
Most dog beds are machine washable. Ensure your chosen detergent is safe for your washing machine. It should work well with standard wash cycles.
Important Materials and Ingredients
1. Enzyme-Based Cleaners
Enzymes are natural proteins. They are excellent at breaking down organic matter. This includes urine, vomit, and food stains. They are very effective at odor removal. Many pet-specific detergents use these.
2. Plant-Derived Surfactants
Surfactants help lift dirt and oil. Plant-derived ones are gentler on the environment. They are also less likely to irritate skin. Look for ingredients like coconut-based or corn-based surfactants.
3. Essential Oils (in moderation)
Some detergents use natural essential oils for scent. These can add a pleasant aroma. However, some essential oils can be harmful to pets. Use caution. Opt for detergents with minimal, pet-safe essential oils or no scent at all.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Steer clear of detergents with phosphates, chlorine bleach, and strong artificial fragrances. These can be bad for your dog and the environment. They can also damage the fabric of the dog bed.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
1. Concentration
A concentrated detergent often means better value. You use less product per wash. This can also mean fewer chemicals are going down the drain. However, always follow the recommended dosage. Too much can leave residue.
2. Biodegradability
Environmentally friendly detergents are often higher quality. They break down easily in nature. This is better for our planet. It also suggests a more natural formulation.
3. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Trusted brands often produce reliable products. Read reviews from other pet owners. They can offer valuable insights. Look for consistent positive feedback on effectiveness and safety.
4. Packaging
While not directly related to cleaning power, good packaging can make a difference. Easy-to-pour bottles or dissolvable pods can improve the user experience.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Everyday Cleaning
For regular washes, a gentle, odor-neutralizing detergent is perfect. It keeps the bed smelling fresh. It prevents dirt buildup.
2. Tackling Accidents
When accidents happen, you need a powerful stain remover. An enzyme-based detergent is ideal here. It will lift tough stains and eliminate odors completely.
3. Sensitive Dogs
If your dog has skin issues, a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent is a must. It provides peace of mind. It ensures their comfort.
4. Multiple Dogs
If you have several dogs, their bedding gets a lot of use. A durable, effective detergent will keep up with the demand. It will ensure all beds are clean and fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes a detergent good for dog bedding?
A: A good detergent is gentle, removes odors, and tackles stains. It should be safe for your dog’s skin.
Q: Can I use my regular laundry detergent on dog beds?
A: Sometimes, but it’s not ideal. Regular detergents can have harsh chemicals. They might irritate your dog’s skin. Pet-specific detergents are formulated with your dog’s needs in mind.
Q: How often should I wash my dog’s bed?
A: It depends on your dog and their habits. A good rule of thumb is to wash it at least once a month. Wash it more often if your dog is messy or has allergies.
Q: What if my dog’s bed still smells after washing?
A: Try an enzyme-based detergent. You might need to pre-treat stains. Ensure you are using enough detergent and the correct water temperature.
Q: Are scented detergents safe for dogs?
A: Scented detergents can be problematic. Artificial fragrances can irritate your dog’s skin and respiratory system. Opt for unscented or naturally scented options with pet-safe essential oils.
Q: How do I remove tough stains like urine?
A: Use an enzyme-based detergent. Pre-treat the stain if possible. Let the detergent sit for a bit before washing. Follow the detergent’s instructions for stain removal.
Q: Should I use a fabric softener on dog bedding?
A: It’s best to avoid fabric softeners. They can leave a residue. This residue might irritate your dog’s skin. It can also reduce the absorbency of the fabric.
Q: What is the best way to wash a dog bed?
A: Check the care label on the bed. Most are machine washable. Use a pet-safe detergent. Wash on a warm or hot cycle if the fabric allows. Ensure it’s completely dry before your dog uses it.
Q: Are there natural or eco-friendly options for washing dog beds?
A: Yes! Many brands offer plant-based and biodegradable detergents. Look for labels that highlight natural ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
Q: How can I tell if a detergent is irritating my dog?
A: Watch for signs like excessive scratching, redness, or hair loss around areas that touch the bedding. If you see these, switch to a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mallory Crusta, the heart and mind behind LovelyPetSpot.com.. As a passionate pet enthusiast, I created this space to share my experiences, expertise, and love for all things pets. Whether it’s helpful tips, heartfelt stories, or advice for pet parents, my mission is to make the journey of caring for your furry, feathery, or scaly friends as joyful and fulfilling as possible. Join me in celebrating the incredible bond we share with our animal companions!