Pet beds collect loose coat hair in the places that take the most contact: the centre cushion, raised edges and stitched seams. The hair can work into the weave, so throwing the cover straight into the washing machine may leave much of it in place.
A short dry-cleaning step before washing removes the loose layer and helps protect the bed. Start with the maker's care label, since foam inserts, waterproof linings and delicate covers need different treatment.
Check the bed before you start
Move your pet to another comfortable resting place. Look for a removable cover, hidden zip and separate foam insert. Check the care label for the permitted wash cycle, water temperature and drying method.
Do not put foam, memory foam or a water-resistant insert in a machine unless its label says you can. The RSPCA recommends choosing a dog bed made from comfortable, easy-to-wash material, which makes ongoing care much easier.
1. Shake off the loose layer
Take the bed or removable cover outside and give it a controlled shake. Pick off visible clumps by hand. This keeps loose fur out of your washing machine and exposes the hair caught in the weave.
2. Vacuum the seams and corners
Use an upholstery attachment on low or moderate suction. Work around the piping, zip and folds before covering the flat cushion. Keep the nozzle moving so it does not pull at one patch of fabric.
Check loose stitching as you go. A damaged seam needs repair before a wash cycle can pull it open.
3. Lift the hair that remains
Test a hidden patch first. On suitable dry fabric, make short passes in one direction with a reusable pet-hair roller. Clear the collection chamber or surface when it fills, then repeat across the cushion and bolster.
Avoid wet fabric, loose loops, faux fur and delicate finishes unless the bed maker approves this method. Stop if the tool catches fibres or changes the surface.
4. Wash the removable parts according to the label
Close any zips and follow the stated cycle. Use a pet-safe detergent in the amount the detergent maker recommends. Skip extra products unless the bed maker permits them, since strong scents and residue may bother some pets.
Wipe the inside of the washing-machine door and clean the filter after the cycle if the appliance instructions tell you to do so.
5. Let every part dry before reassembly
Follow the label for line drying or tumble drying. Damp foam and covers can hold odours, so wait until each section feels dry before replacing the insert and returning the bed to its usual place.
Reduce the next build-up
Remove loose hair from the bed between washes and groom your pet at a pace they accept. A soft grooming mitt may suit some short coats. Coat type and individual comfort should guide the tool you choose.
The Shedlo Pet Hair Rescue Kit separates the two jobs: use the black grooming mitt on a comfortable pet, and use the white-and-orange reusable roller on suitable dry fabrics. Never use the roller on an animal.
Pet-bed cleaning questions
Can I put the whole pet bed in the washing machine?
Use the care label as your guide. Many beds have a washable cover and an insert that must stay out of the machine.
Can I use a pet-hair roller on fleece or faux fur?
Test a hidden area and check the maker's instructions. Long pile, loose loops and delicate finishes can catch, so stop at the first sign of pulling.
Why remove hair before washing?
Dry removal lifts the loose layer that water can press into seams and fabric. It also reduces the amount of fur entering the washing machine.
Can the reusable roller be used on my dog or cat?
No. Use the roller on suitable fabrics and interiors. Use a pet-safe grooming tool, such as the kit's gentle mitt, on the animal.