1. Home
  2. Dog
  3. Health & Wellness

How to Clean a Dog Bed and Other Pet Supplies

Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ
By Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ
Updated
Apr. 30, 2025

Photo by Jon Lofdahl

When it comes to cleaning your pet supplies, you do have to think twice. Unlike cleaning items for human use, cleaning pet products requires more care to protect human and pet health.

Some of the cleaning products we typically use that are safe for humans can be detrimental to our pets’ health. And sometimes it can be easy to forget just how often we need to clean our pets’ beds, toys and other supplies.

Learn how to safely and properly clean a dog bed, cat bed and other important items in your pet’s life.

How to Clean a Dog Bed


Cleaning pet supplies

By Jon Lofdahl

How often to wash pet bedding depends on several factors:

  • How much the pet sheds
  • How much time the pet spends outdoors
  • If the pet has allergies
  • If household members have allergies to the pet

In most cases, it is recommended to wash pet bedding once every 1-2 weeks. If anybody in your home suffers with pet allergies, your pet sheds a lot, or they spend a lot of time outdoors, then you might want to wash the bedding more often. Use your best judgement, and remember that the longer you go between washing, the harder the bedding will be to clean.

Machine wash all cat and dog beds with unscented detergent on the sanitation cycle or the hottest water cycle available, assuming the fabric can handle it. Pets with sensitive skin might benefit from an additional rinse at the end of the wash cycle, and bedding with polyester stuffing should be hung to dry because the dryer will cause clumping.

If your pet’s bedding is covered in hair, vacuum the bedding to remove as much hair as possible before running it through the washing machine. This will keep your washing machine from getting clogged and will allow the bedding to be cleaned more effectively.

It also is recommended to run an empty cycle after you wash pet bedding or pet toys to thoroughly clean your washer before running any human laundry. You can add some bleach to the empty cycle to effectively cut odors out of your washer.

How to Clean Pet Bowls


Cleaning pet supplies

By Jon Lofdahl

Generally speaking, you can run pet bowls through the dishwasher or hand-wash them with hot, soapy water. Wash the dog or cat food bowl after every meal, and wash your pet’s water bowls every couple of days.

The most important aspect of cleaning pet bowls is to remove any bits of food, as these can harbor and grow bacteria even after running through the dishwasher. This especially is important because of pet food recalls due to salmonella, which can make you and your pet sick.

Utensils used to prepare your pet’s wet food or raw food should be washed daily. For kibble, use a dedicated scoop and wash it weekly.

For extra sanitization, soak food bowls in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach diluted in 1 gallon of water after washing. Rinse well.

Note: Raw food can carry harmful bacteria. If you feed your pet a raw diet, it is critical to wash the food bowls and utensils daily and use disinfecting wipes or sprays to thoroughly disinfect any surface used to prepare food. Anyone who has a reduced immunity—such as the elderly, the very young, people infected with immune disorders or diseases, or organ transplant recipients—should wear gloves when washing pet bowls or feeding pets and always wash their hands after.

Read more about how to clean pet bowls the right way.

How to Clean Dog Toys


Cleaning pet supplies

By Jon Lofdahl

If you’re wondering how to clean dog toys, they can be washed weekly or any time they are covered in dirt or slobber. Plush toys without holes can be machine washed on the sanitation cycle or the hottest setting with a teaspoon of detergent.

KONGs, ropes, squeaky toys, frisbees and other rubber toys can be washed in the dishwasher. Place 2-3 tablespoons of white vinegar in the bottom of the dishwasher. You also can hand wash these toys with a dedicated scrubber brush and hot, soapy water or vinegar, but make sure to rinse them well.

Note: Bones cannot be washed with any detergent, bleach or vinegar. Instead, wipe them clean with a warm, wet washcloth.

Want to get your dog in on the tidy action? Here’s how to teach your dog to put away their toys.

How to Clean a Cat Litter Box


Cleaning pet supplies

By Jon Lofdahl

Litter boxes should be scooped daily for urine and feces, and cleaned thoroughly once a week depending on the litter used. Scoop urine clumps and feces into a plastic bag, tie the bag shut, and deposit it in an outdoor receptacle daily.

It is recommended to clean the litter box in a laundry sink or, better yet, outdoors with a hose or water bucket once a week. Do not clean the litter box in a kitchen sink, bathroom sink or bathtub.

You don’t want to wash cat litter boxes in a bathtub or bathroom sink because your cat might harbor harmful parasites or bacteria in their feces or urine. If this is your only option, then make sure you clean the tub or sink with dilute bleach when you are finished.

To clean the litter box, scrub it with a designated brush or sponge, hot water and unscented liquid soap—anything scented can irritate a cat’s nose and cause them to reject the box. Rinse the box and either dry it with a paper towel or let it air dry, and then refill the box with 2-3 inches of litter.

It is recommended to wear gloves and a paper mask while cleaning or scooping the litter box, and pregnant women should not clean litter boxes because of the risk of toxoplasmosis, an infection that can cause birth defects.

Read more about how to safely clean a cat’s litter box.

By using these recommendations, you can keep your pet’s items safe and clean. After cleaning any of your pet’s items, make sure to keep yourself safe by thoroughly washing your hands with hot, soapy water.

Attributions


Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ

Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ

Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ, is a well-known international influencer in the veterinary and animal health care spaces. She has 16 years
Related articles
  • Dog Dental Care: 7 Ways To Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean
    Dog Dental Care: 7 Ways To Keep Your Dog’s Teeth Clean

  • How To Cut a Dog’s Nails
    How To Cut a Dog’s Nails

  • What Are Cataracts in Dogs?
    What Are Cataracts in Dogs?

  • My Senior Dog Sleeps All Day—Is This Normal?
    My Senior Dog Sleeps All Day—Is This Normal?
  • Our experts are available 24/7:We're here 24/7:
  • 1-800-672-4399
  • United States
  • About
  • Investor Relations
  • Affiliates
  • Jobs
  • FAQs
  • Learn
  • Give Back
  • Gift Cards
  • Sell on Chewy
Download iOS appDownload Android app
Go to ACHC pharmacy accreditationLegitscript ApprovedCompounding Pharmacy Approved
  • Copyright © 2025, Chewy, Inc.
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility
  • California Supply Chains Act
  • Vendor Compliance
Download phone image
Get the Chewy app
Download iOS appDownload Android app
We're here 24/7
1-800-672-4399
United States
Copyright © 2025 Chewy, Inc.
Terms-Privacy (Updated Oct 8, 2024)-Accessibility
California Supply Chains Act-Vendor Compliance
About-Investor Relations-Jobs-Learn
Give Back-Gift Cards-Sell on Chewy
Skip to searchSkip to main content
Not in the U.S?

Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

Continue to Canada site
Use App
24/7 HelpHelp
Get help from our experts 24/7
1-800-672-4399
    • Track Order
    • -
    • FAQs
    • -
    • Contact Info
    AccountAccount
    Sign InNew Customer? Start here
    • Account
    • Orders
    • Manage Autoship
    • Favorites
    • Buy Again
    • Prescriptions
    • Pet Portal
    • Connect with a Vet
    • Pet Insurance Dashboard
    • My Rescues
    • Create a Pet Profile
    CartCart
    Your cart is empty.
    Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
    Not in the U.S?

    Not shopping in the U.S. or plan on shipping to a Canadian address?

    Continue to Canada site
    Use App
    24/7 Help
    Get help from our experts 24/7
    1-800-672-4399
      • Track Order
      • -
      • FAQs
      • -
      • Contact Info
      AccountAccount
      Sign InNew Customer? Start here
      • Account
      • Orders
      • Manage Autoship
      • Favorites
      • Buy Again
      • Prescriptions
      • Pet Portal
      • Connect with a Vet
      • Pet Insurance Dashboard
      • My Rescues
      • Create a Pet Profile
      CartCart
      Your cart is empty.
      Something missing? Sign in to see items you may have added from another computer or device.
      Food
      • Dry Food
      • Wet Food
      • Fresh Food & Toppers
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Shop by Health Condition
      • Puppy Food
      Treats
      • Bones, Bully Sticks & Naturals
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Biscuits & Cookies
      • Long-Lasting Chews
      • Jerky Treats
      • Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated
      Toys
      • Plush Toys
      • Chew Toys
      • Fetch Toys
      • Treat Dispensing Toys
      • Puzzle Toys
      • Rope & Tug Toys
      Supplies
      • Crates, Pens & Gates
      • Beds
      • Leashes, Collars & Harnesses
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Clothing & Accessories
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Training & Behavior
      Dog DealsSummer ShopPet Parent SuppliesShop all Dog
      Grooming
      • Brushes & Combs
      • Shampoos & Conditioners
      • Grooming Tools
      • Paw & Nail Care
      • Ear Care
      • Skin Care
      Cleaning & Potty
      • Pee Pads & Diapers
      • Poop Bags & Scoopers
      • Cleaners & Stain Removers
      • Vacuums & Steam Cleaners
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Heartworm & Dewormers
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • DNA Testing Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Purina Pro Plan
      Hill's
      Blue Buffalo
      Frisco
      Royal Canin
      Bark
      $30 eGift card with $100 order of pet faves like Solid Gold. Code: HAVEFUN. Exclusions apply.
      Food
      • Wet Food
      • Dry Food
      • Everyday Favorites
      • Shop by Health Consideration
      • Veterinary Diets
      • Highest Quality Food
      • Food Toppers
      Litter
      • Clumping
      • Scented
      • Unscented
      • Natural
      • Lightweight
      Treats
      • Crunchy Treats
      • Lickable Treats
      • Soft & Chewy Treats
      • Dental Treats
      • Catnip & Cat Grass
      Toys
      • Interactive & Electronic Toys
      • Teasers & Wands
      • Balls & Chasers
      • Catnip Toys
      • Plush & Mice Toys
      Cat DealsPet Parent SuppliesShop all Cat
      Supplies
      • Litter Boxes & Accessories
      • Cat Tech & Smart Home
      • Beds
      • Carriers & Travel
      • Bowls & Feeders
      • Collars, Leashes & Harnesses
      • Grooming
      Trees & Scratchers
      • Trees & Condos
      • Scratchers & Scratching Posts
      • Wall Shelves
      • Window Perches
      Health & Pharmacy
      • Flea & Tick
      • Anxiety & Calming Care
      • Allergy & Itch Relief
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pharmacy & Prescriptions
      • Test Kits
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Tiny Tiger
      Shop Blue Buffalo
      Shop litter robot
      Shop Temptations
      Shop Hill's Science Diet
      Shop Purina Pro Plan
      Help support their urinary health with Royal Canin Urinary nutrition. Shop now.
      Horse
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Health & Wellness
      • Vitamins & Supplements
      • Fly Control
      • Prescription Medications
      • Vaccines
      Chicken
      • Feed
      • Treats
      • Nesting & Egg Supplies
      • Coops & Runs
      • Feeders, Waterers & Deicers
      Farm Animal
      • Cattle
      • Goat
      • Pig
      • Sheep
      • Llama & Alpaca
      Wild Bird & Wildlife
      • Wild Bird
      • Squirrel & Critter
      • Duck & Waterfowl
      • Deer
      Small Pet
      • Rabbit
      • Guinea Pig
      • Hamster
      • Ferret
      Pet Bird
      • Food
      • Treats
      • Toys & Perches
      • Litter & Nesting
      • Cages & Accessories
      Fish
      • Tanks & Aquariums
      • Food
      • Filters & Media
      • Decor & Substrate
      • Water Care
      Reptile & Amphibian
      • Live Feed
      • Food & Treats
      • Tanks & Terrariums
      • Heating & Lighting
      • Substrate & Bedding
      Gift Cards
      Popular Brands
      Shop Buckeye
      Shop Animed
      Shop Cosequin
      Chewy Chick Days deals. Save on feed & supplies for every life stage. Shop now.
      Prescriptions
      Order your pet's prescription items.
      How it works
      Shop all Pharmacy
      Health Services
      Chewy Vet Care
      Chat free with our vet team
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Compounded Medications
      Choose from a variety of flavors, strengths, and forms for your pet or horse.
      Learn about compounding
      Dog
      • Flea & Tick
      • Heartworm
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Anxiety & Calming
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Cat
      • Flea & Tick
      • Dewormers & Parasiticides
      • Ear & Eye Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Allergy Relief
      • Urinary Tract & Kidneys
      • Pain Relief & Arthritis
      • Diabetes Care & Insulin
      Horse
      • Anti-inflammatory & Musculoskeletal
      • Vitamins & Electrolytes
      • Skin & Coat Care
      • Antibiotics
      • Metabolic & Endocrine
      • Allergy & Immune
      • Behavioral Support & Sedatives
      • Reproductive Care
      Expert Health Tips
      • PetMD
      Connect with a Vet
      Free chat or live-video advice from our licensed veterinary team.
      Learn more
      CarePlus Insurance & Wellness Plans
      Give your pet the best possible health coverage with wellness and insurance plans.
      Learn more
      Chewy Vet Care
      Exceptional in-person routine and urgent care from our compassionate veterinary teams.
      Schedule a visit
      Learn
      How We Give Back
      We've donated more than $100M in products to rescue animal centers.
      Learn more
      Donate to a Rescue
      You can help us make an impact by donating items to your local shelter.
      Find a Rescue
      Find Pets to Adopt
      Search thousands of pets from shelters and rescues in Chewy's network.
      Find Pets
      Join Our Network
      Join our network to access benefits and resources that’ll help more pets.
      Join Now
      Today's Deals