Beds, blankets, covers, towels and even different items of clothing are part of any dog's trousseau. Nowadays, there are a lot of options in the market to choose from, such as different colors, sizes, designs, fabrics, etc. We are usually guided by aesthetics or functionality when choosing, but we do not always pay attention to how we have to preserve all these garments and accessories to clean them thoroughly and keep them in good condition for as long as possible.
Below, on our site, we explain how to wash the dog's bedding and clothes to maximize hygiene and reduce odors. Normally we will wash at home, but we can assess other options, since, at present, it is possible to resort to specialized centers, such as the laundries that can be found in some dog car wash centers.
How to wash dog blankets?
It is clear that the blankets, covers, beds or any other textile used by our dog will have to be easy to clean. Whether we offer a blanket of ours or buy a bed or clothing specifically designed for dogs, the most important thing when maintaining proper hygiene is follow the washing recommendationsindicating the manufacturer. To know them, it is necessary to consult the label.
Most of these canine accessories will allow easy washing, and can simply be put in the washing machine at a higher or lower temperature. Therefore, when choosing your dog's bed, the first step is to consider the ease with which the bed can be put in the washing machine whole, separated into its different components or just the cover.
How to wash my dog's clothes?
Like beds, covers or towels, clothing that is marketed especially designed for dogs, such as coats, raincoats or sweaters, can be easily washed en washing machine, following the instructions on its corresponding label. Some collars, leashes, or harnesses, such as those made of nylon, can also be washed this way. These types of accessories can sometimes be washed by hand or cleaned with a damp cloth or wipe.
Can the dog bed be washed in the washing machine?
So far we have been talking about using the washing machine, but it is true that there are more scrupulous caregivers who may wonder if it is hygienic to wash the dog's bed in the washing machine. The truth is that there is no problem because we use our washing machine to keep our dog's bed or clothes clean. In fact, it is the best way to disinfect or eliminate potential parasites, if any. But it is worth taking into account some recommendations such as the following:
- Just in case, always read the label of the fabric you want to wash.
- Make sure all components are suitable for the washing machine. For example, if it is a bed, it may be that only the cover is washable.
- Beds or any other stuffed garment may have a tear through which it comes out during washing. Check its integrity.
- Remove as much hair as you can, as well as dirt, sand, or any other adhering solid.
- Of course, Put a washing machine with only your dog's clothes. Don't mess them with yours or you'll leave them full of hair.
- Choose the washing program according to the manufacturer's instructions. The duration can be adjusted to the degree of dirt.
- When finished, cleans the washing machine. You can pass a cloth inside to catch the hairs, better once dry, and run it on a short program to clean it.
- Finally, from time to time it would not be bad if you disassembled the filter of the washing machine to remove the hairs that may have accumulated.
How often to wash the dog's bed?
There is no single answer to this question. The need for cleaning will depend a lot on the characteristics of the dog, its way of life, but also on our habits. For example, just the detail of cleaning the legs when you get home can already make a difference for the maintenance of the bed. On average, we can speak of a weekly washing frequencyTake the opportunity to fill a washing machine with all your dog's textiles. Of course, if the dog vomits, has incontinence, etc., the recommendation is to dry the liquid as soon as possible with absorbent paper. In this way, we prevent the fabric from impregnating, which helps to avoid odours.
If you wonder how to remove the bad smell from the dog's bed, usually with regular washes with an enzymatic detergent you can keep it at bay For specific stains, after absorbing them, we can put vinegar or baking soda on them before putting them in the washing machine, as they neutralize odours.
Where to wash the dog's clothes
But if you don't feel like using your washing machine for your dog's clothes, today you have another alternative. At dog car wash centers, like I Love Dog Wash, they have a laundry serviceIn addition to the advantage of preserving your washing machine and saving you time, they offer you both a washer and dryer, so you return home with clothes ready to store or use quickly, easily and economically.
