Keeping your dog’s bed clean isn’t just about a tidy home. It’s essential for your dog’s comfort, health, and happiness.
At Four Bare Paws, we design our foam, sherpa‑topped dog beds to be irresistibly cosy and easy to care for. With the right routine, your dog’s favourite snoozing spot can stay fresh, hygienic, and long‑lasting.
Here’s our complete guide to keeping your dog bed clean and odour‑free.
Why Cleaning Your Dog Bed Matters
Dog beds naturally collect dirt, fur, drool, allergens, and bacteria. Over time, this buildup can cause unpleasant smells and even contribute to skin irritation or allergies.
Regular cleaning helps:
- Reduce odours and bacteria
- Minimise allergens like dust and pollen
- Extend the life of the bed
- Keep your dog healthier and more comfortable

. Shake out and Spot‑Clean Regularly
A little maintenance goes a long way.
- Shake the bed outside every few days to remove loose hair and debris
- Vacuum weekly, especially along seams where fur collects
- Spot‑clean stains as soon as they happen using a damp cloth
This quick routine helps prevent odours from setting in between washes.
2. Wash the Cover on a Schedule
If your dog bed has a removable cover (like our Four Bare Paws designs), washing becomes simple and effective.
Best practice:
- Wash the cover every few weeks (or more often for muddy adventurers)
- Use cold or warm water with a gentle cycle
- Choose a pet‑safe, fragrance‑free detergent
Avoid harsh chemicals and softners as they can irritate your dog’s skin and damage the sherpa fabric over time.
3. Freshen the Bed With Regular Airing
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best.
- Take the dog bed outside on a dry day and let it air out in fresh air
- Open windows nearby to improve airflow around the bed indoors
- Gently fluff the sherpa surface to release trapped hair and smells
Regular airing helps remove everyday odours naturally and keeps the bed feeling fresh between washes without adding powders or products your dog may not enjoy.
4. Don’t Forget the Foam Base
While the cover gets the most attention, the foam insert also deserves care.
- Air the foam out every few weeks
- If needed, lightly spot‑clean and allow to fully dry before reassembling
- Keep the foam dry to maintain its supportive structure
High‑quality foam, like the kind we use at Four Bare Paws, holds its shape best when properly aired and protected.
5. Dry Thoroughly to Prevent Smells
Damp fabric is one of the biggest causes of lingering odours.
- Air‑dry covers when possible
- Ensure both cover and foam are completely dry before use
Proper drying keeps the sherpa plush, fluffy, and fresh.
6. Create a Cleaner Sleep Environment
Help your dog bed stay cleaner for longer by:
- Wiping muddy paws before bedtime
- Keeping the bed away from damp areas
- Rotating or repositioning the bed to prevent uneven wear
Small habits make a big difference.
Why Four Bare Paws Dog Beds Are Easy to Keep Fresh
Our foam, sherpa‑topped dog beds are designed with real life in mind:
- Supportive foam for joint comfort
- Ultra‑soft sherpa for warmth and relaxation
- Practical designs that make regular cleaning easy
A clean bed means better sleep and better sleep means a happier dog!
Keeping your dog bed clean and odour‑free doesn’t have to be a chore. With a simple routine and a high‑quality bed, you can give your dog a fresh, cosy place to rest every day.
Explore our Four Bare Paws dog beds and give your best friend the comfort they deserve without the smell.
Because every dog deserves a clean, cosy place for their four bare paws. 🐾

