So you decided to YOLO and buy a luxury dog bed for your pup! That's great! But now you have to take all the steps we list in this article to ensure it last long and continues to look great in your home.
Unpacking and Setting Up Your Pup's Bed
When you first bring your dog bed home, excitement is in the air! It's a new comfort zone for your furry friend. Begin by carefully unpacking the bed. If it's vacuum-sealed, allow it some time to expand and reach its full size and shape.
This waiting period is the perfect opportunity to inspect the bed for any defects or damages incurred during shipping.
Next, find the ideal spot for the bed. It should be a place where your dog feels safe and comfortable, away from high-traffic areas. Consider the temperature and lighting in this area, as these factors contribute significantly to your pet's comfort.
Depending on how much consideration you put into your home decor, you can consider ensuring the temperature and lighting in this area are on point too so the beauty of the bed is better showcased and at the same time contribute significantly to your pet's comfort.
If the bed has a removable cover, now is a good time to wash it before your dog uses it. This initial wash can remove any residues from the manufacturing process and make the bed more inviting for your dog.
Follow the care instructions on the label for the best results.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning is necessary. It helps maintain good hygiene and promotes a healthy environment for your pet.
A cleaning routine
Start by establishing a regular cleaning schedule depending on your dog's breed , behaviour and habits. This will give you a good idea of how many times a year the bed should be washed. It could range from week to week, month to month or even only a few times a year.
Vacuuming the bed
You can vacuum your pup's bed on a regular basis to remove hair, dirt, and other debris it may carry. A handheld vacuum or an upholstery attachment are usually particularly effective for such a small task. Vacuuming also helps alleviate anyone's allergies, including any your dog may have.
Machine washing it
Remember to machine wash the bed. Most dog beds come with removable covers that are machine washable or can be washed completely assembled. Your best bet is to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
We suggest you use a mild, pet-safe detergent and avoid harsh chemicals or fragrances because they could irritate your dog's skin. Most beds are dryer safe so you can choose to dry it that way or simply air-dry it. Check the washing instructions to make sure the bed won't shrink.
Dealing with Accidents and Odours
Accidents happen, especially with puppies or older dogs. Just be prepared for this and have a plan to tackle these incidents quickly. If an accident happens, just remove any solid waste and blot up liquids as soon as possible.
Then us an enzyme cleaner designed for pet odours and stains; these cleaners are effective in breaking down the odour-causing substances.
For persistent odours just sprinkle it on the bed, let it sit for a few hours and then vacuum it up. Baking soda is great at absorbing odours without having to use of harsh chemicals, and if you do this regularly, it will keep the bed smelling clean all the time.
Sometimes, the inner cushion of the bed may also need cleaning so check if it's machine washable before you wash it. Most dog beds are but if not, spot cleaning and air-drying will work just as well.
Make Your Pup's Bed Last Long
Your dog's bed is both a sleeping space and their personal space so they use it a lot. To make it last as long as possible, try out these tips:
- Rotate or if possible flip the bed regularly to prevent uneven wear.
- Depending on the bed, keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Trim your dog's nails regularly to avoid tears in the fabric.
- If the bed is not in use, store it in a clean, dry place.
- Consider a waterproof liner for dogs prone to accidents.
Also, observe your dog's behavior and if they seem uncomfortable or reluctant to use the bed, if this is the case, read our article on How To Make Your Dog Sleep In Their New Bed for some simple but effective help.
Keep Your Dog's Bed Cozy and Clean to Last Long
If you purchased a luxury dog bed for your pup, just make sure to give it regular care and attention so as to ensure it last long and that your dog has a cozy spot to call their own for years to come.
Remember, a clean bed is a happy bed for your furry family member!