Washing Dog Bed with Vinegar and Baking Soda: Find out how to do it

Welcome to Pawsitive Tips! This is our first Pawsitive Tip, and it is about washing dog bed with vinegar and baking soda. Dogs are not just seen as pets but also as a bonified member of our family. And as such, they deserve to have a comfortable and clean place to rest, and one of the most important items for a dog’s comfort is their bed.

However, over time, dog beds can become dirty, smelly, and even infested with fleas or other pests. This is where washing the dog bed with vinegar and baking soda comes in handy. In this article, we will explore the benefits and best practices of using vinegar and baking soda to clean your dog’s bed.

Why use vinegar and baking soda to wash your dog’s bed?

Here are some of the reasons why you should use vinegar and baking soda to wash your dog’s bed:

Vinegar is a natural disinfectant.

Vinegar and baking soda are both natural and effective cleaning agents that can be used to remove dirt, stains, and odors from fabrics. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can kill bacteria, viruses, and even fleas. This is important because dogs can carry germs that can be harmful to humans, and a dirty bed can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

Vinegar is safe and non-toxic.

Unlike some harsh cleaning products, vinegar is safe and non-toxic for both dogs and humans. It won’t harm your dog if they happen to lick the bed after it has been washed with vinegar.

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer.

Baking soda, on the other hand, is a natural deodorizer that can neutralize unpleasant smells. It can help absorb and neutralize odors, which is important when washing a dog’s bed. Dogs can be smelly creatures, and their beds can start to develop an unpleasant odor over time. Baking soda can help eliminate those odors naturally.

Baking soda is gentle on fabrics.

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help remove stains and grime from fabrics, but it’s also gentle enough not to damage the fibers. This makes it a good choice for washing your dog’s bed, which may be made of a variety of materials.

It’s cost-effective

Vinegar and baking soda are inexpensive household items that you probably already have in your pantry. Using them to wash your dog’s bed can save you money compared to buying specialized pet cleaning products.

By using vinegar and baking soda together, you can create a powerful cleaning solution that will not only clean your dog’s bed but also leave it smelling fresh and free of pests.

Related articles:

• How to Clean a Smelly Dog Bed With Vinegar
• Does Your Dog Leaves Brown Spots on Bed? ( Here’s What to Do)
• How to get pet hair off blankets in washing machine

How to wash your dog’s bed with vinegar and baking soda

Washing your dog’s bed with vinegar and baking soda is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps:

Step 1: Remove any loose debris.

Before washing your dog’s bed, it’s important to remove any loose debris, such as fur, dirt, or food. Use a vacuum or lint roller to remove any visible debris from the bed.

Step 2: Pre-treat stains

If there are any visible stains on the bed, you can pre-treat them with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Form a paste by mixing equal quantities of white vinegar and baking soda. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. After that, use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste.

Step 3: Wash the bed.

Once you have pre-treated any stains, you can wash the bed in a washing machine. Add one cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle to help kill any bacteria or pests. If the bed is particularly dirty or smelly, you can also add a half cup of baking soda to the wash cycle to help neutralize any odors.

Step 4: Dry the bed.

After washing the bed, you can dry it in a dryer or hang it outside to air dry. If you choose to use a dryer, add a few tennis balls or clean shoes to the dryer to help fluff up the bed and prevent clumping.

Tips for washing your dog’s bed with vinegar and baking soda

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when washing your dog’s bed with vinegar and baking soda:

1. Check the care label: Before washing your dog’s bed, be sure to check the care label to ensure that it can be washed in a machine.
2. Use a gentle cycle: wash the bed on a gentle cycle to prevent any damage to the fabric.
3. Use hot water: Use hot water to help kill any bacteria or pests that may be on the bed.
4. Don’t use fabric softener: Avoid using fabric softener as it can reduce the effectiveness of the vinegar and baking soda.
5. Wash regularly: To keep your dog’s bed clean and free of pests, it’s important to wash it regularly, ideally once a week.

Conclusion

In conclusion, washing your dog’s bed with vinegar and baking soda is a natural and effective way to clean and deodorize it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your furry friend has a clean and comfortable place to rest. So, the next time your dog’s bed needs washing, grab some vinegar and baking soda.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cleaning with vinegar and baking soda safe for dogs?

Yes, cleaning with vinegar and baking soda is safe for dogs. Just like we mentioned earlier, vinegar and baking soda are natural products that are non-toxic to dogs. In fact, some dog parents use baking soda to brush their dogs’ teeth, and vinegar can also be used to clean up pet poop and pee.

You just have to dilute the vinegar and baking soda with water when cleaning. This will help prevent the vinegar from becoming too acidic and the baking soda from becoming too alkaline.

What can I mix with vinegar to get rid of dog smell?

To eliminate dog smell, mix vinegar with water in equal parts and spray it on affected surfaces. Alternatively, create a paste using vinegar and baking soda for tougher odors. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to vinegar and water for a pleasant scent. Test any solution in a small area before use.

What makes a dog smell good?

There are a few things that can make a dog smell good. These include:

• Regular bathing: Bathing your dog regularly with a mild shampoo will help to remove dirt, debris, and oils that can contribute to bad smells.
• Good diet: Feeding your dog a healthy diet can help to improve their overall health and well-being, which can also affect their smell.
• Grooming: Regular grooming, such as brushing and trimming, can help remove loose hair and dander that can contribute to bad smells.
• Certain breeds: Some dog breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers, are known for having a naturally pleasant odor.
• Certain essential oils: Adding a few drops of essential oil to your dog’s bath water or bedding can help to freshen their scent.

It is important to note that even if you do all of these things, your dog may still have a natural odor. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be concerned about. However, if you are concerned about your dog’s smell, you can always talk to your veterinarian.