The Pet Bed Looks Fine. When Did You Last Wash It?

The pet bed is back in its corner. You have brushed off the obvious hair, straightened the blanket and moved on. It looks ready for another nap—but when did the cover last go through the wash?

Appearance is a useful prompt, not a hygiene test. A quick hair pickup can make a bed look tidier while leaving the washing job untouched.

Visible fur is only one cleaning job

The CDC's pet-supply cleaning guide explains that even healthy-looking pets can carry germs. Its example schedule includes cleaning beds and blankets weekly, or more often when needed. Follow your item's instructions rather than assuming one method suits every fabric.

Cleaning and disinfection also have different purposes. Removing loose hair with a dry mitt does not disinfect a surface, establish that germs have been removed, or prevent illness.

Build the routine around the care label

1. Check before you start. Find the label and note whether the cover, filling or whole bed can be washed. Separate removable pieces as instructed.
2. Gather visible loose fur. On a suitable fabric, use a gentle touch-up method before the main clean. Test a hidden spot and avoid delicate, loose or damaged material.
3. Complete the proper clean. Use the method, detergent and temperature allowed by the manufacturer. A dry surface sweep does not replace this step.
4. Finish drying. Follow the drying directions before rebuilding the bed. Check folds and thick areas rather than relying only on the outer cover.
5. Set the next reminder. Keep the schedule visible and clean sooner when the bed is dirty or smells unpleasant.

Know when the routine needs to change

Illness, urine or fecal contamination, and vulnerable household members can call for different precautions. Use the CDC guidance and ask your veterinarian which cleaning steps are appropriate. Follow cleaner and disinfectant labels, including instructions about keeping pets away until items are safe to use again.

Where a reusable mitt helps

The PET DAY mitt handles the visible loose-hair touch-up on suitable household fabrics. It is not a disinfectant, pesticide or grooming glove. Clear collected fur from the mitt as you work.

Keep the rest of the home manageable with our everyday cleanup routine. If you are concerned about insects rather than ordinary shedding, read why flea control needs its own plan.

Educational information, not medical or veterinary advice. CDC does not endorse PET DAY. Reviewed November 10, 2026.