Dogs are messy. That's just reality.
With 6 dogs tracking in mud, shedding constantly, and occasionally having accidents, I've learned one thing: if a dog bed isn't easy to wash, it's useless.
The best dog bed in the world becomes a smelly, disgusting problem if you can't clean it properly. After years of washing dog beds weekly (sometimes daily), here are the beds that actually hold up to real-life cleaning.
Quick Picks: Best Washable Dog Beds
| Bed | Washability | Best For | Price | Rating | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Barker 7" | Cover only | Large breeds, durability | $$$ | ★★★★★ | Check price |
| K9 Ballistics Elevated | Hose down entire bed | Easiest cleaning | $$ | ★★★★★ | Check price |
| FurHaven Orthopedic | Cover machine wash | Best value | $ | ★★★★ | Check price |
| Bedsure Orthopedic | Full bed machine wash | Budget pick | $ | ★★★★ | Check price |
| PetFusion Ultimate | Cover machine wash | Mid-range quality | $$ | ★★★★ | Check price |
| Best Friends Donut | Full bed machine wash | Small dogs | $ | ★★★★ | Check price |
| Coolaroo Elevated | Hose down | Outdoor/easy clean | $ | ★★★★ | Check price |
Easiest to clean: K9 Ballistics Elevated – Just hose it down and it's dry in minutes.
What Makes a Dog Bed "Washable"?
Not all "washable" beds are created equal. Here's what to look for:
Level 1: Removable, Machine-Washable Cover
Most common type. The cover comes off and goes in the washing machine.
Pros:
- Foam stays dry and intact
- Cover dries relatively quickly
- Most quality beds offer this
Cons:
- Foam itself can't be washed
- If accidents soak through, foam is compromised
- Need waterproof liner for best protection
Level 2: Entire Bed Machine Washable
Less common but convenient. The whole bed goes in the machine.
Pros:
- Everything gets cleaned
- No disassembly required
- Great for small beds
Cons:
- Usually only works for smaller beds
- Takes longer to dry
- May not fit in standard washing machines
Level 3: Hose-Down/Wipe Clean
Elevated and outdoor beds. Just spray with water and wipe.
Pros:
- Fastest cleaning method
- Dries in minutes
- No washing machine needed
Cons:
- Usually no cushioning
- Not for dogs needing orthopedic support
- Industrial look
Best Washable Dog Beds: Detailed Reviews
1. Big Barker 7" – Best Washable Premium Bed
Premium quality with a genuinely easy-to-wash cover.
Washability:
- Microfiber cover is fully removable
- Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
- Cover zips on/off easily
- Optional waterproof liner available
Why it's great for washing: The cover material doesn't trap odours like cheaper fabrics. Even after months of use, it washes clean and comes out looking new. The zipper runs along three sides, making removal and replacement easy.
Specifications:
- 7" therapeutic foam
- Sizes: Large, XL, Giant
- 10-year warranty
Drawbacks:
- Premium price
- Foam cannot be washed (use waterproof liner)
- Cover shows hair before washing
Best for: Large breeds, long-term investment, owners who wash weekly.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read full review: Big Barker Review
2. K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated – Easiest to Clean
The easiest bed to clean, period. Just hose it down.
Washability:
- Spray with hose
- Wipe with cloth
- Dries in minutes
- No covers to remove
- No machine needed
Why it's great for washing: Bailey's bed gets dirty constantly. With K9 Ballistics, I take it outside, spray it down, and it's dry and ready within 30 minutes. No washing machine, no drying time, no hassle.
Specifications:
- Aluminium frame
- Ballistic ripstop fabric
- Elevated design
- 120-day chew-proof warranty
Drawbacks:
- No cushioning
- Elevated style not for all dogs
- Less cosy than foam beds
Best for: Messy dogs, outdoor use, maximum ease of cleaning, chewers.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Read full review: K9 Ballistics Review
3. FurHaven Orthopedic Sofa – Best Value Washable
Good quality, easy washing, great price.
Washability:
- Removable cover
- Machine wash cold
- Tumble dry low
- Cover fits back on easily
Why it's great for washing: The cover holds up well to repeated washing without fading or shrinking. For the price, the wash-and-wear durability is impressive.
Specifications:
- Egg-crate orthopedic foam
- L-shaped bolster
- Multiple sizes and colours
- Multiple fabric options
Drawbacks:
- Foam may compress over time
- No waterproof liner included
- Budget construction
Best for: Budget buyers, frequent washers, first-time dog owners.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Bedsure Orthopedic – Best Budget Full-Wash Bed
The whole bed goes in the washing machine.
Washability:
- Entire bed machine washable
- Includes waterproof liner
- Tumble dry low
- Non-slip bottom survives washing
Why it's great for washing: For smaller sizes, you can throw the entire bed in a standard washing machine. No disassembly, no separate foam care—just wash and dry.
Specifications:
- Egg-crate foam
- 4-sided bolster
- Waterproof liner included
- Multiple sizes
Drawbacks:
- Large sizes don't fit standard washers
- Takes time to dry completely
- Foam quality is basic
Best for: Budget buyers, small-medium dogs, people wanting full-bed washing.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. PetFusion Ultimate – Best Mid-Range Washable
Quality construction that handles frequent washing.
Washability:
- Removable cover with YKK zippers
- Machine wash cold
- Tumble dry low
- Water-resistant (not waterproof) cover
Why it's great for washing: The cover quality is noticeably better than budget beds. YKK zippers don't break. The fabric maintains its feel even after many washes.
Specifications:
- 4" memory foam
- Bolstered edges
- Sizes: Small to Jumbo
- 1-year warranty
Drawbacks:
- Water-resistant, not waterproof (get a liner)
- Mid-range price
- Some find cover replacement tricky
Best for: Quality-conscious buyers, mid-range budgets, dogs needing support.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
6. Best Friends by Sheri Donut – Best Small Dog Washable
Molly's bed. The whole thing goes in the washer.
Washability:
- Entire bed machine washable
- Maintains shape after washing
- Air dry recommended (or low tumble)
- Faux fur doesn't mat or clump
Why it's great for washing: I was skeptical that the fluffy donut shape would survive washing. It does. The faux fur comes out soft, and the raised edges bounce back to shape.
Specifications:
- Donut/calming design
- Faux fur exterior
- Sizes: 23" to 45"
- Multiple colours
Drawbacks:
- No orthopedic support
- Only for small-medium dogs
- Takes longer to dry (dense material)
Best for: Small dogs, curlers, dogs who get their beds dirty often.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
7. Coolaroo Elevated Cot – Budget Easy-Clean
Simple, effective, and practically self-cleaning.
Washability:
- HDPE fabric—just hose off
- Dries in minutes
- Mould/mildew resistant
- Frame wipes clean
Why it's great for washing: This is Max's outdoor bed. Mud, dirt, wet fur—doesn't matter. Spray it with the hose, and 15 minutes later it's dry and clean.
Specifications:
- Steel frame
- HDPE breathable mesh
- Indoor/outdoor use
- Multiple sizes
Drawbacks:
- No padding
- Some dogs don't like elevated beds
- Basic appearance
Best for: Outdoor use, easy cleaning priority, dogs who overheat.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Washable Dog Beds: Comparison Table
| Bed | Wash Method | Dry Time | Waterproof | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Barker | Cover only | 2-3 hrs | Optional liner | $$$ | Check price |
| K9 Ballistics | Hose down | 30 mins | Yes (fabric) | $$ | Check price |
| FurHaven | Cover only | 2-3 hrs | No | $ | Check price |
| Bedsure | Full bed | 4-6 hrs | Yes (liner incl) | $ | Check price |
| PetFusion | Cover only | 2-3 hrs | Resistant | $$ | Check price |
| Best Friends | Full bed | 4-6 hrs | No | $ | Check price |
| Coolaroo | Hose down | 15 mins | Yes | $ | Check price |
The Importance of Waterproof Liners
Even with washable covers, accidents can soak through to foam. Once foam gets wet with urine:
- It's extremely difficult to clean
- Odour persists even after drying
- Bacteria can grow inside
- The bed may be ruined
Solution: Waterproof liners
A waterproof liner sits between the foam and the cover. Liquids hit the liner, not the foam.
Beds with liners included:
- Bedsure (included)
- Big Barker (optional purchase)
- Some FurHaven models
If not included: Buy a separate waterproof liner. They're £15-30 and save your entire bed from accidents.
How to Wash Different Bed Types
Removable Cover Beds
What you'll need:
- Mild, pet-safe detergent
- Washing machine
- Dryer or drying rack
Steps:
- Remove cover (unzip carefully)
- Shake off loose hair and debris
- Pre-treat any stains
- Wash on gentle/cold cycle
- Use pet-safe detergent, NO fabric softener
- Tumble dry low OR air dry
- Ensure completely dry before replacing
Frequency: Every 1-2 weeks, or after accidents.
Full-Bed Washable
What you'll need:
- Large capacity washing machine (or laundromat)
- Mild detergent
- Time for drying
Steps:
- Shake off debris
- Check if bed fits in your machine (don't force it)
- Wash on gentle/cold
- Extra rinse cycle recommended
- Tumble dry low (may take multiple cycles)
- Ensure completely dry throughout
Tip: Many full-bed washable beds don't fit standard home machines. Use a laundromat for large sizes.
Elevated/Hose-Down Beds
What you'll need:
- Garden hose
- Mild soap (optional)
- Cloth for wiping
Steps:
- Take bed outside
- Spray thoroughly with hose
- For stubborn dirt, use mild soap and cloth
- Rinse completely
- Let air dry (usually 15-30 minutes)
Frequency: As needed—this method is so easy you can do it daily.
Read more: How to Clean a Dog Bed
What NOT to Do When Washing Dog Beds
❌ Don't Use Fabric Softener
Fabric softener:
- Irritates dog skin
- Reduces fabric absorbency
- Leaves residue dogs can smell
Use instead: Pet-safe detergent only.
❌ Don't Use Hot Water
Hot water can:
- Shrink covers
- Set stains
- Damage waterproof coatings
Use instead: Cold or warm water.
❌ Don't Use Bleach
Bleach:
- Can irritate dog skin
- Damages fabric
- Leaves residue
Use instead: Enzyme cleaners for tough stains.
❌ Don't Put Wet Covers Back On
Damp covers:
- Develop mould and mildew
- Create odours
- Can damage foam
Always: Ensure covers are completely dry before replacing.
❌ Don't Machine Wash Memory Foam
Memory foam:
- Absorbs water like a sponge
- Takes days to dry
- Can develop mould inside
- Structure can be damaged
Instead: Spot clean foam, use waterproof liners to prevent contamination.
Best Beds for Specific Messes
For Dogs Who Have Accidents
Priority: Waterproof protection + easy washing
Best picks:
- Bedsure (waterproof liner included)
- Big Barker + waterproof liner
- K9 Ballistics (no foam to absorb)
For Heavy Shedders
Priority: Covers that release hair easily
Best picks:
- K9 Ballistics (hair falls through)
- Big Barker (microfiber releases hair)
- PetFusion (tight weave fabric)
For Muddy Dogs
Priority: Easy outdoor cleaning
Best picks:
- Coolaroo Elevated (hose off)
- K9 Ballistics (hose off)
- Any bed with dark-coloured, removable cover
For Droolers
Priority: Water-resistant surface + frequent washing
Best picks:
- K9 Ballistics (water-resistant fabric)
- PetFusion (water-resistant cover)
- Any bed with waterproof liner
Our Cleaning Schedule (6 Dogs)
Here's what works for our household:
| Task | Frequency | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum all beds | Every 2-3 days | |
| Wash removable covers | Weekly | |
| Hose down elevated beds | As needed (often daily in muddy weather) | |
| Deep clean with enzyme cleaner | Monthly | |
| Check for damage/wear | Monthly |
With 6 dogs, cleaning is constant. Beds that can't handle this schedule don't last in our house.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash a dog bed with stuffing?
+How often should I wash my dog's bed?
+Why does my dog's bed smell even after washing?
+Can I put a dog bed in the dryer?
+What's the best detergent for dog beds?
+The Bottom Line
A dog bed you can't clean is a dog bed you'll throw away.
Our recommendations:
- Easiest to clean: K9 Ballistics Elevated – just hose it off
- Best premium washable: Big Barker – cover washes beautifully
- Best value: FurHaven Orthopedic – holds up to frequent washing
- Best for accidents: Bedsure – waterproof liner included
- Best for small dogs: Best Friends Donut – whole bed washes
Invest in a waterproof liner for any bed with foam. It's the single best thing you can do to extend your bed's life and make cleaning easier.
Check our easiest-clean pick: K9 Ballistics on Amazon
Related Articles:
We’ve paused the on-page review box for now because we were getting too many spam submissions. If you’d like to share your experience, please send it through our contact form and I’ll add it manually. Thanks for understanding — genuine feedback really helps other dog owners. John Henry
