Quick answer
Clean your fabric pet home by removing loose fur, spot-cleaning with mild detergent, and machine-washing removable covers on a gentle cycle. Always air-dry to protect the shape and padding.
Why regular cleaning matters
Fabric pet beds trap dander, dirt, and odours that can irritate sensitive noses and cause allergies. A quick weekly refresh keeps the bed inviting and hygienic for your cat or small dog.
Different designs need slightly different care. Enclosed styles like the Edinburgh cat house have a rounded shape that holds its form best when hand-washed or gently machine-dried. Openable models like the Igloo cat bed let you unzip the entire cover for thorough cleaning.
What you'll need
Mild, pet-safe laundry detergent, a soft brush or lint roller, a vacuum with a brush attachment, and a large drying rack or clean towel. Avoid bleach, fabric softener, and high heat.
Step-by-step cleaning process
- 1. Remove loose fur and debris: Vacuum the entire bed with a brush attachment, paying extra attention to seams and corners. Use a lint roller or damp rubber glove to lift stubborn fur. Common mistake: skipping this step can clog your washing machine and leave fur embedded in the fabric.
- 2. Spot-clean stains: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with cool water. Dab the stain with a soft cloth, working from the outside in to avoid spreading. Rinse with a damp cloth. Checkpoint: always test the detergent on an inconspicuous area first, especially on dark or patterned fabrics.
- 3. Machine-wash removable covers: Unzip and remove any detachable covers or cushions. Wash them on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. For Igloo-style beds, zip the cover closed before washing to protect the zip pull. Common mistake: using hot water or heavy-duty cycles can shrink cotton covers and damage the fabric structure.
- 4. Hand-wash non-removable parts: If the foam or padding is not removable, fill a tub with cool water and a small amount of detergent. Gently submerge and squeeze the bed, then rinse thoroughly until no soap remains. Checkpoint: never wring or twist the foam – press out water gently with your hands or a towel.
- 5. Dry completely before reassembly: Air-dry covers flat on a drying rack or lay them on a clean towel. For foam parts, place them in a well-ventilated area and flip occasionally. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading. Common mistake: putting a damp cover back on the foam can lead to mildew and a musty smell.
Products mentioned in this guide
-
EDINBURGH: Edinburgh is a rounded fabric cat house that doubles as a soft armchair with a cushion. The removable cushion makes it easy to wash the padding separately, but the rounded shell needs gentle handling to keep its shape.
EDINBURGH
-
IGLOO: Igloo is a cat bed with eco-friendly fur padding that can be opened completely via a zip to become a soft cover. The full zip lets you machine-wash the entire cover, but the fur padding should be air-fluffed and never tumble-dried on high heat.
IGLOO
-
NICHE: Niche is a cotton bed with a front opening and raised front edge for privacy. The cotton fabric is machine-washable, but the raised front edge may hold its shape better if you air-dry it flat rather than hanging.
