How To Keep The Hygiene Of Dog Blanket？

Key Takeaways

• The dog's blanket and bedding can be home to mites, ticks, and harmful bacteria, and so they need to be cleaned every week.
• Follow the dog blanket label guidelines before machine washing the fabric.
• Vacuuming, the fabric between washes, will remove dirt and pet hair from the blanket.
• Use pet-friendly detergents and products that won’t cause itching and irritation to the dog. For dogs with sensitive skin, natural products are considered better and safe.

We love to have our beds spotlessly clean, and our blankets are brimming with the fresh fragrance of detergents. But do the bed and blanket of your furry friend represent the same healthy condition? 

A cute, playful dog brings warmth and love to your home, but his thick fur and paws also hold the potential to bring dust, mud, and germs right into the home and particularly to their sleeping place. An unclean and unwashed dog blanket becomes dirty and will eventually become smelly, which your canine friend does not deserve for sure.

Why Should You Clean Your Dog's Blanket?

Keeping your dog’s blanket clean is essential for their health and your home’s hygiene. Most blankets, especially fleece blankets, can harbor harmful bacteria, allergens, and dirt, making regular washing vital. Here's why you should follow the right care instructions for your furry friend’s favorite blanket:

1. Prevent Health Risks
   Dog blankets are magnets for bacteria, parasites, and allergens. Without proper cleaning, these microorganisms thrive in faux fur blankets, cotton fabrics, or synthetic materials. Regularly washing with a gentle detergent and following the blanket’s care label prevents health hazards for both your pet and your family.

2. Remove Stubborn Stains and Odors
   Dogs bring in mud, saliva, and other messes that can deeply embed into fleece fibers and other delicate fabrics. Use a mild detergent or dishwashing liquid on heavily soiled spots, and let the blanket soak in warm water to lift tough stains. A thorough rinse cycle helps eliminate odors caused by excess detergent or pet messes.

3. Protect the Blanket’s Soft Feel
   Dog blankets, especially synthetic fibers or faux fur, can lose their softness without proper care. Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, and always use a gentle cycle in the washing machine. For delicate fabrics, hand washing in cool water and air drying on a drying rack helps retain their original form.

4. Extend the Life of Your Dog’s Blanket
   Following funny care instructions on clothing tags might make you laugh, but they’re vital for preserving the blanket feel and preventing wear and tear. Always wash blankets with specific instructions, such as using a low heat setting or line dry method, to protect the fibers from damage.

5. Maintain a Clean and Comfortable Space
   A clean blanket keeps your dog happy and cozy. Use a few dryer balls during the drying process to prevent clumping and maintain softness. Whether you’re caring for synthetic fabrics or cotton fabrics, regular maintenance ensures your pet’s bed remains inviting and odor-free.

By washing with mild detergent, rinsing thoroughly, and drying completely, you can keep your dog’s favorite blanket fresh and hygienic. Follow these funny care instructions to give your furry friend a clean, cozy, and healthy sleeping environment!

How Often Should You Wash the Dog Blanket?

Dog blankets need regular cleaning to maintain hygiene and comfort for your furry friend. The frequency of washing depends on how often your dog uses their favorite blanket and how dirty it gets. Here's a helpful guide:

1. Daily Use
   If your dog loves wrapping themselves in their fleece blanket or faux fur blanket every day, consider washing it twice a week. This removes dirt, pet hair, and odors that build up quickly, especially for dogs that shed or drool.

2. Occasional Use
   For blankets used primarily at night or occasionally, a thorough wash once a week is typically enough. Use the gentle cycle in the washing machine, mild detergent, and a low heat setting to preserve the fleece fibers and keep the blanket soft.

3. Lightly Soiled Blankets
   If the blanket isn’t heavily soiled but collects pet hair, a quick vacuum or spot cleaning with a soft bristle brush can help between washes. For a deeper clean, pre-treat spots with a mix of dishwashing liquid and cool water, then wash as needed.

4. Seasonal Factors
   In warmer months, when dirt, mud, and allergens are more prevalent, you might need to wash blankets more frequently. Follow the care label and use the appropriate wash cycle to prevent damage to delicate fabrics.

5. For Sensitive Dogs
   If your dog has allergies or sensitive skin, wash their blanket regularly using a gentle detergent and rinse thoroughly to avoid irritation. Air drying on a line dry or drying rack can also help prevent exposure to unnecessary chemicals.

By following these tips and using specific instructions from the blanket’s clothing tags, you’ll ensure your dog’s blanket stays fresh, clean, and cozy all week long!

Cleaning the Dog's Blanket in the Washing Machine

Cleaning your dog’s blanket in the washing machine is one of the easiest ways to keep it fresh, hygienic, and odor-free. Follow these care instructions to ensure the blanket remains in its original form while thoroughly cleaning it:

1. Pre-Wash Preparation
   Before tossing the blanket into the washing machine, vacuum or use a soft bristle brush to remove pet hair. Excess pet hair can clog the wash cycle or damage the machine. Pre-treat tough stains with a mixture of dishwashing liquid and warm water to loosen dirt and debris.

2. Choose the Right Wash Settings
   Check the care label for specific instructions on washing the blanket. Most fleece blankets, cotton fabrics, and synthetic materials can handle a gentle cycle or delicate cycle in the machine. Avoid high agitation, which can damage delicate fibers.

3. Use the Right Detergent
   Select a mild detergent or gentle detergent that’s free from harsh chemicals and safe for your pet’s sensitive skin. Avoid using fabric softeners, as they can coat the fibers and reduce the blanket’s softness.

4. Set the Water Temperature
   Wash in cool water or warm water, depending on the fabric type. For heavily soiled blankets, use a low heat setting or water at around 140°F to ensure thorough cleaning while avoiding shrinkage or damage to the fleece fibers or synthetic fibers.

5. Rinse Thoroughly
   Run an extra rinse cycle to remove any residual detergent, especially for thick blankets or blankets used by dogs with sensitive skin. Excess detergent can cause irritation or leave a soapy residue that traps odors.

6. Drying Tips
   For best results, air dry the blanket on a drying rack or line dry it in direct sunlight to kill bacteria naturally. If using a dryer, set it to a low heat setting and add a few dryer balls to prevent clumping and maintain the blanket feel.

By following these steps and choosing machine washable materials, you’ll keep your dog’s blanket clean, fresh, and comfortable, ensuring a cozy spot for your furry friend to enjoy!

Hand Washing a Dog's Blanket

Sadly not all dog blankets are machine-friendly. Maybe the blanket is too heavy, or the label on it advises you to hand wash the fabric. It might be time-consuming, but you want the best for your pet after all. Here is how to hand wash your pet's blanket the right way:

1. Use a lint roller or vacuum cleaner to remove hair. 

2. Remove all those stubborn stains by rubbing dry detergent on them. 

3. Next, soak the blanket into a tub filled with warm water. Avoid using hot water as it will burn your skin. 

4. Add the detergent to the water. 

5. Twist the blanket into the tub to fully submerge the blanket into the detergent. Let the blanket remain in the water for 15 minutes. 

6. Then, rinse it thoroughly into cold water until all the detergent is washed out. 

7. Squeeze the fabric to remove excess water and dry it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Maintain Hygiene of Your Dog's Blanket

Keeping your dog’s blanket clean and hygienic doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple steps and the right tools, you can maintain a fresh and cozy blanket for your furry friend. Here’s how:

1. Vacuum or Brush Regularly
   Use a vacuum cleaner or a soft bristle brush to remove dirt, pet hair, and debris between washes. This prevents buildup and keeps the blanket feeling soft and fresh.

2. Wash Paws After Walks
   Before your dog hops onto their favorite blanket, make it a habit to wash their paws. This helps reduce the dirt, mud, and allergens that can get transferred onto the blanket.

3. Use Pet-Safe Cleaning Sprays
   For quick cleanups between washes, spritz the blanket with a pet-safe fabric cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and water. This neutralizes odors and kills bacteria without harsh chemicals.

4. Follow Care Instructions
   Always check the blanket’s clothing tags or care label for specific instructions on washing and drying. Adhering to these guidelines helps maintain the original form of the blanket and prevents damage.

5. Rotate Blankets
   Keep a couple of fleece blankets or synthetic blankets in rotation. While one is being cleaned, your dog will still have a cozy spot to snuggle.

6. Choose Machine-Washable Fabrics
   Opt for machine washable blankets with durable materials like cotton fabrics or synthetic fibers. These are easier to clean and last longer with proper care.

7. Replace Annually
   Even with regular cleaning, blankets can wear out over time. Treat your dog to a new, clean blanket every year to maintain hygiene and comfort.

By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can keep your dog’s blanket clean, soft, and fresh while ensuring your home stays odor-free and hygienic. A little effort goes a long way in creating a healthy environment for your furry companion!