Latest news with #dogbed
Forbes
18-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
How To Clean A Dog Bed, According To Experts
Your dog spends hours each day curled up in the same spot, which means their cozy bed is likely packed with dirt and bacteria you can't even see. Even if you're diligent about keeping your pup clean, dog beds steadily collect fur, saliva, sweat and dander—all of which can cause odors, trigger allergies and irritate your dog's skin. Veterinarians and cleaning experts emphasize that knowing how to clean a dog bed properly involves more than just occasionally washing the removable cover. Most pet owners, they say, underestimate how frequently and thoroughly a dog bed should be cleaned to keep it comfortable, hygienic and safe. 'In general, dogs tend to get into a variety of stinky things when they go outside to use the restroom or go for walks,' says Dr. Jacqueline Brister, a veterinary consultant with Embrace Pet Insurance. 'Even healthy, fully vaccinated dogs kept on year-round flea, tick and parasite preventives can bring in enough dirt and grime to warrant regularly cleaning their bedding at least once every couple of weeks.' As someone who's spent nearly a decade covering pet-care products (and even longer caring for my own dogs), I've learned through trial and error which cleaning methods and products actually work—and I've made sure every recommendation here is veterinarian-approved and safe for your pup. The steps for washing removable covers, cleaning foam inserts and dealing with beds labeled "spot-clean only" aren't complicated, but each requires a slightly different approach. Before you unzip anything, you'll want to shake off the bed and get rid of excess debris. 'Start with a vacuum to remove the majority of the hair and dirt,' says Jessica Gonzalez, cleaning expert and Chief Operating Officer at Sparkly Maid San Antonio. She recommends using a handheld vacuum specifically made for pet hair, like the Black+Decker Furbuster, which does a better job at removing fur, crumbs and dirt from corners and seams. For embedded pet hair that's difficult to remove, follow up with the ChomChom Reusable Pet Hair Remover. Dog owners love this reusable lint roller because it lifts stubborn pet hair in just a few seconds, doesn't take up much storage space and doesn't require batteries or replacement sheets. And if you still notice leftover hair, Gonzalez suggests using a slightly damp rubber glove: 'Just rub it across the surface and it will pick up what the vacuum missed.' Carefully unzip the cover and pull it off the foam insert, then give it a quick once-over to check for any stains or discoloration. If you see something that needs extra attention, lightly spray it with a pet-safe stain remover. I like the Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator because it breaks down stains and removes odors rather than just covering them up. (Gonzalez also specifically recommends this enzyme-based stain remover because it's gentle on your dog's skin and respiratory system.) Blot the area gently with a clean cloth instead of rubbing, so the stain will lift without damaging the fabric. When washing your dog's bedding, always choose a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Veterinarians consistently recommend using detergents without dyes or additives, like Seventh Generation, to minimize the risk of irritating your dog's sensitive skin. Animal behaviorist Michelle Bernstein also notes that consistency in your choice of detergent matters: 'Use the same laundry detergent and avoid making other unnecessary changes,' she says. 'Dogs, just like humans, don't like change.' If odors are especially stubborn, which is common if your pup spends a lot of time outside or with other dogs, try adding a pet-specific laundry booster like Skout's Honor Laundry Booster Stain & Odor Removal Additive. From there, follow the manufacturer's instructions for washing temperature and drying method to keep the cover in good condition. You usually can't put the foam insert itself in the washing machine, but there are other easy ways to keep it clean. Gonzalez recommends sprinkling baking soda generously over the insert and letting it sit for a few hours to absorb odors, then vacuuming it up thoroughly. A handheld steamer also works well to gently sanitize foam without soaking it; just be careful not to get the insert too wet because excessive moisture can encourage mold or damage the bed. After cleaning, let the insert dry completely in a well-ventilated spot (ideally outside in the sun) to prevent mold growth or lingering odors. Some dog beds are labeled "spot-clean only," which means you can't remove the cover and toss it in the washing machine. Many pet owners don't realize how impractical this is until their dog comes inside with wet paws after a rainy walk or throws up unexpectedly on the bed. Cleaning experts and veterinarians advise against choosing these types of beds because they're tough to keep clean and tend to trap odors and bacteria over time. 'When buying a new bed, always buy one with a removable cover,' says Gonzalez. 'It will make your life so much easier.' If you already own a bed that's hard to wash, there's no need to replace it entirely; an easy solution is to get a washable, waterproof dog bed cover. These covers come in a variety of sizes, slip easily over your current bed and help protect against messes. And they can be especially helpful if you have a puppy or senior dog who's prone to accidents or if you're dealing with a large, bulky bed that's a hassle to clean regularly. Cleaning your dog's bed regularly helps prevent odors and keeps bacteria buildup and allergies under control. Veterinarians generally recommend washing removable covers at least every two weeks, but Brister emphasizes that you might need to wash bedding more often in certain situations. 'If your pet has recently been sick—such as with stomach issues, a urinary tract infection or a respiratory illness—or if they have skin, eye or ear problems, consider washing bedding every week or even more frequently,' she says. Foam inserts typically need a deep clean quarterly, though you might have to do it more regularly if your dog has allergies, sensitive skin or spends a lot of time outside. Even if you've done a great job cleaning your dog's bed, at some point it'll probably make sense to replace it. Veterinarians say it's usually time for a new bed if you notice: Remember: Replacing your dog's bed when it's worn out isn't only about looks. It's about making sure your dog stays comfortable, safe and well-supported over the long term. Check out our top recommendations for the best dog beds and the best orthopedic dog beds if you and your pup are in the market for something new. Jacqueline Brister, DVM, is a veterinarian and veterinary consultant at Embrace Pet Insurance, specializing in pet health education and preventive care. With over a decade of experience as both an emergency clinician and veterinary medical writer, Dr. Brister has treated countless pet health issues that could've been prevented with better owner education. She received the ACVIM Award for Compassion in Oncology upon her graduation from Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, and founded B-Squared Medical Writing to further her mission of empowering pet owners with clear, practical health resources. Michelle Bernstein, M.S., M.A., ACAAB, is an animal behaviorist and supervisor at VCA Animal Hospitals, holding master's degrees in Animal Behavior from Hunter College and Veterinary Forensic Medicine from the University of Florida. With nearly 20 years of experience studying pet behavior, Bernstein focuses on safe and effective ways for humans and pets to live comfortably together. She shared insights into how regular cleaning affects dog behavior and comfort, and offered expert advice on avoiding stress and behavioral issues that can result from frequent changes in your dog's environment. Jessica Gonzalez is a cleaning expert and the Chief Operating Officer at Sparkly Maid San Antonio. Gonzalez offered simple and realistic cleaning methods that pet owners can easily incorporate into their routines, including how to remove tough pet hair, dirt and odors from dog beds. She also recommended specific pet-safe cleaning products she regularly uses and trusts. Kelly O'Sullivan, the author of this story, is Forbes Vetted's home and kitchen editor. She's covered pet-care products professionally for nearly a decade and has cared for dogs her entire life. Kelly combined her firsthand experiences keeping dog beds clean with expert input to ensure every recommendation in this guide is practical and safe for pets.
Forbes
06-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The 6 Best Orthopedic Dog Beds For Pups Of All Ages And Sizes
Not every dog bed labeled "orthopedic" actually supports your dog's joints. The best orthopedic dog beds use high-quality memory foam designed specifically to relieve pressure from sensitive areas like your pup's hips, elbows and spine, without flattening after a few months of use. Beds like the Casper Dog Bed, our top pick overall, evenly distribute your dog's weight and provide comfort that standard beds simply can't match—especially for senior dogs, large breeds or pups recovering from surgery. The best orthopedic dog beds, from brands like Casper, Orvis and more, can protect your pup's joints ... More and help them rest more comfortably. If you're wondering whether your dog needs better support, start by observing their sleep habits. 'Discomfort may not always be obvious," says Dr. Jennifer Bruns, veterinarian at PetSmart Veterinary Services. "Dogs may avoid their bed entirely or prefer lying on the floor if the bed is not supportive enough.' Small behavioral clues like these can reveal if your pup would benefit from an orthopedic upgrade. To help you choose a dog bed that's right for them, we've included a range of tested and expert-approved picks, like the Orvis RecoveryZone ToughChew Couch Dog Bed, which is durable enough to survive dogs who might normally shred up a bed in days, and the Sealy Lux Pet Dog Bed, designed specifically to keep pups cool. Whatever your dog's needs, the right orthopedic bed can noticeably improve how comfortably they sleep and the ease with which they move afterward. Casper Sleep Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 3 | Colors: 3, including Gray, Blue and Sand | Outer material: Nylon, polyester and olefin microfiber | Inner material: Memory foam, polyurethane support foam | Washable cover: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: Many of the dog beds we've tested feel comfortable at first but start sinking and losing their support after just a few months. Casper's bed solves this problem with two layers of foam: a sturdy polyurethane foam base that gives the bed structure and keeps your dog properly elevated, plus a memory foam layer on top that cushions joints and evenly distributes weight. Forbes Vetted senior mattress editor Bridget Chapman says her dog has slept on the Casper bed daily for more than a year, and it still feels just as firm and supportive as it did on day one. (Her pup still loves it, too.) The Casper also has firm foam bolsters around the edges, which provide dogs with a cozy spot to rest their heads or curl up against. Its cover is soft, durable and easy to unzip and toss in the washing machine (though it does take a little more effort to get back on), and the zippers tuck neatly into hidden pockets so they won't scratch your floors. There's also some slightly loose fabric on top, which is intentionally designed for dogs who like to paw and dig around before getting comfy; it's made from tough, bonded microfiber that doesn't easily rip, even if your pup makes digging a regular habit. (Though if something does happen, replacement covers are sold separately.) Forbes Vetted managing editor Emmy Favilla says her dog often takes advantage of this feature, happily pawing at the material before settling in for a nap. And because it has a clean, understated look, the Casper blends easily into just about any room—something our editors have appreciated after months, or even years, of having it in their homes. FurHaven Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 5 | Colors: 3, including Brownstone and Granite Gray | Outer material: Velvet microfiber | Inner material: Orthopedic foam (convolute, solid or memory foam) | Washable cover: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: Orthopedic dog beds can be expensive, and if you're shopping for a puppy or an older dog, it doesn't always make sense to splurge. That's why I originally bought the FurHaven Sofa Dog Bed—and why I've repurchased it multiple times since. It's less than half the cost of many premium options (under $60 for a large size), but this bed still provides supportive cushioning that gives dogs of all ages the comfort and joint support they need. The foam isn't quite as thick or dense as pricier beds, but even after a few years, it still hasn't flattened down to the floor. FurHaven also lets you choose from a few types of foam, including egg-crate convolute foam, solid orthopedic foam and responsive memory foam, depending on what your dog needs. I've tested multiple versions and found each comfortable and supportive enough for my 50-pound dog (and roomy enough for another 40-pound pup to squeeze in). The soft velvet-like cover washes easily, hides fur very well and hasn't ripped after countless cycles in my machine. Putting the bolsters and foam back inside after cleaning does take a little patience, but that's pretty typical for washable dog beds. Amazon Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 5 | Colors: 3, including Autumn Brown, Modern Gray and Navy | Outer material: Faux-felt polyester | Inner material: Quad-layer memory foam and cooling gel | Washable cover: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: If your dog overheats easily or struggles to settle comfortably, a cooling orthopedic bed might be particularly beneficial. The Sealy Lux Pet Dog Bed has a four-layer foam design specifically meant to keep dogs cooler and relieve pressure from sensitive joints. The top layer uses cooling gel to draw heat away from your dog's body, which makes a noticeable difference in warm weather. Beneath that, a memory foam layer contours to your dog's shape, and supportive foam underneath keeps your dog elevated off the floor. Another helpful feature is the charcoal-infused bottom layer, which is designed to absorb pet odors and keep the bed fresher between washes. When it is time to clean the bed, the polyester cover zips off easily and can be tossed directly into the washing machine. This bed also has bolstered edges on three sides, giving pups a comfortable place to rest their heads or curl up against something supportive. Meanwhile, the open front makes it easy for older pets, dogs with joint pain or pups recovering from injuries to step in without extra effort. Amazon Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 8 | Colors: 36 (though not all colors are available in every size), including Gray, Brown and Navy | Outer material: Flannel or plush flannel | Inner material: Egg-crate orthopedic foam | Washable cover: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: Smaller dogs often prefer beds that feel cozy and secure but aren't challenging to climb into. Bedsure's Orthopedic Dog Bed is a great pick for little pups because of its lower entry point and small front opening, a design that makes it easy for small or senior dogs to step in and out without added effort. Its egg-crate foam base is designed to cushion joints and pressure points, so it should feel especially comfortable for older small breeds or dogs recovering from injuries. The bed has four-sided bolsters to create a snug, enclosed space that smaller dogs often find comforting, especially if they like to curl up rather than stretch out. There's also a waterproof liner beneath the removable cover, which protects the foam if your dog has an accident or a spill happens. The soft flannel cover comes in dozens of colors and zips off easily whenever you need to wash it. And the bottom of the bed is designed to be non-slip, so it'll stay in place even on slippery hardwood floors. Chewy Type: Pillow with headrest | Sizes: 3 | Colors: 4, including Burgundy, Khaki and Charcoal Gray | Outer material: Microfiber | Inner material: Orthopedic foam | Washable cover: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: If you have a big dog, you've probably noticed that most dog beds just aren't built to handle their weight. The foam usually feels supportive at first, but within a few months it flattens out and your pup ends up practically lying on the floor. The Big Barker Orthopedic Pillow Dog Bed is designed with thick, mattress-quality foam specifically designed for larger breeds—Favilla says it feels more like lying on a human mattress than a standard dog bed. (Yes, she tested it out herself.) After several months of using the Big Barker at home, her large, arthritic senior dog consistently chose this bed over all the others in the house. Instead of sinking into the foam, large dogs stay comfortably lifted off hard surfaces, and the bed is even strong enough to support two big dogs at once; the XL size easily accommodates a couple of Labs, pit bulls or similar-sized breeds. There's also a raised pillow along one side for extra comfort, so dogs can rest their heads or lean against it without restricting how much they stretch out. Vets often recommend this type of sturdy support to help prevent joint pain, especially in bigger or older dogs. Its microfiber cover is soft, washable and does a good job resisting muddy paw prints, slobber and fur (though, like many of our favorite beds, getting it back on after washing takes a bit of patience). Just keep in mind: This bed is substantial, both in terms of price and floor space. If your dog doesn't need quite this much room, or your home is short on extra space, a smaller option like the Casper might be a better fit. Orvis Type: Bolstered rectangle | Sizes: 3 | Colors: 4, including Brown and Slate | Outer material: Ripstop nylon and polyester | Inner material: Dual-layer orthopedic foam | Washable cover: Yes What you'll love: Keep in mind: The Orvis RecoveryZone ToughChew Couch Dog Bed is specifically built for pups determined to rip apart everything they sleep on. Unlike typical dog beds, this one has a rugged, upholstery-grade cover reinforced with ripstop nylon beneath—similar to fabric used for backpacks or camping gear—so it's almost impossible for teeth or claws to tear through. Hidden brass zippers and built-in handles are intentionally tucked out of sight, further limiting tempting chew targets. And just in case your dog somehow does manage to chew through it, Orvis backs this bed with a no-questions-asked, money-back guarantee. Inside, the bed is designed to provide strong orthopedic support, with a dense 4-inch foam base and an additional softer layer on top that helps ease pressure from joints and sore muscles. Solid foam bolsters around three sides create a secure space that many dogs naturally gravitate toward, while the front is open for easy access. The washable cover does a surprisingly good job at hiding fur and dirt, and there's a waterproof liner underneath so the foam won't get ruined even if your pup has an accident. It's definitely pricier than other beds, but if you're tired of tossing shredded covers into the trash, the investment makes sense. The Forbes Vetted team is made up of pet parents who regularly research, test and recommend pet products, including the best dog beds, the best dry dog food and the best dog leashes. For this guide to the best orthopedic dog beds, we relied on firsthand experience with many of these beds, plus extensive research and consultations with veterinary experts. To find the best orthopedic dog beds, we combined long-term personal use, in-depth product research and insights from trusted veterinary professionals to ensure each recommendation is worth your investment. Buying an orthopedic dog bed involves more than just choosing one labeled as 'orthopedic.' To ensure your dog benefits from improved joint health and comfort, here's what veterinary experts recommend looking for. The most important feature in an orthopedic dog bed is the foam. Look specifically for high-density memory foam or a multilayered orthopedic foam base that's firm enough to prevent sinking. Bruns says true orthopedic beds 'provide proper joint support and even weight distribution to minimize pressure points on sensitive areas like hips and elbows.' Waggel's resident veterinarian Dr. Aimee Warner adds a simple test: 'Push your hand into the foam," she says. "If it slowly comes back and maintains its shape, you're likely seeing real support and not just marketing.' Bolstered edges around the bed, like those you see on picks like the Casper and Bedsurebeds on this list, aren't just decorative. 'Side bolsters are a welcome addition, especially for dogs who curl up or need head and neck support,' says Warner. But accessibility also matters, particularly for older or mobility-challenged pets. Bruns advises pet owners to choose a bed that's easy for dogs to step onto, noting that low-profile designs without steep edges or high bolsters minimize strain and reduce discomfort. Orthopedic beds typically represent a bigger investment, so it's important that they're both durable and easy to clean. According to Warner, washable covers are essential—especially for older dogs prone to accidents or those recovering from procedures. 'Neglecting to seek out washable covers can be a hygiene nightmare,' she says. Look for beds with removable covers that are machine washable (like every pick on our list) and ideally water-resistant to resist drool, dirt and accidents. Regularly cleaning and occasionally rotating the bed will also help extend its lifespan and keep your dog's sleeping area clean and comfortable.
Independent Singapore
28-05-2025
- General
- Independent Singapore
Woman upset after seeing dog bed in laundromat dryer, says they're for human clothing only
FB screengrab/ COMPLAINT SINGAPORE SINGAPORE: After a woman asked others to 'Please be considerate la' and posed a video of a dog bed being cleaned in a laundromat, many others agreed. In a (Tuesday) May 27 post on the COMPLAINT SINGAPORE Facebook page, 盘相楹 wrote that a laundromat is 'ONLY FOR HUMAN clothing leh.' 'How can you dry your dog beds in the dryer!' she exclaimed, adding, 'Don't get me wrong, I have a dog at home too, but must not take things for granted!' She also wrote that cleaning the dog bed this way is not only disrespectful but also endangers those who have allergies to pet hair. Netizens commenting on her post agreed with her and thanked her for speaking up, appearing to find it inappropriate as well for anyone to use a laundromat for pet bedding. 'Oh no…. Why ppl do it like that… Should know is for washing clothes, curtains, and bedsheets only…. No other things alamak ,' a woman wrote. 'Isn't there a sign that states what can and can't be washed? I know pet beds are definitely not allowed,' another commented, adding, 'Does this laundromat name and shame bad customers? The one I went to had CCTV screenshots of the offenders printed and pasted on the walls with their 'crime' mentioned.' 'I hope the owners of these laundromats put up rules and regulations, dos and don'ts, T&C for users to abide by when patronizing,' chimed in another. 'Unacceptable! No plushies, no shoes, and certainly no pet beddings! It's for universal use for clothes worn by us only. Human beddings are ok. The management must look into it and sanitize their machines. When you see this should call their hotline immediately so they can send someone immediately. They have cameras that they can view who does it,' a group member added. Others complained that they've seen people similarly use the washers and dryers for items such as dirty shoes or muddy military uniforms. Another commenter wrote that pet keepers can also be inconsiderate in other ways. 'Not only dryers, even rental cars are also subject to misuse by pet keepers who use the rental cars to bring their pets for grooming or veterinary appointments. Pet keepers!!!… Imagine you're the next one using it, how would you feel?' The Independent Singapore has reached out to the post author for further comments or updates. /TISG Read also: Fur baby's mum appeals to cyclists to 'slow down near pedestrians and pets' after a hit-and-run incident that shattered her dog's jaw
