As the holidays approach, keeping your pet’s bedding fresh and odor-free becomes especially important. I’ve tested all of these products myself—some tackle stains well but leave odors lingering, while others are gentle yet effective. The key is finding a detergent that destroys pet stains and odors without harsh chemicals.
After hands-on use, I found the ACTIVE Enzyme Pet Laundry Detergent stands out. Its natural enzyme formula efficiently targets tough pet messes like urine, vomit, and dirt, and it does so without synthetic fragrances. It’s compatible with all fabric types and works in cold or hot water, making it versatile for everyday use. Compared to dedicated odor removers like Febreze, ACTIVE offers a more comprehensive cleaning, neutralizing smells rather than just masking them. For a reliable, chemical-free option that handles the mess and keeps bedding smelling fresh, I highly recommend the ACTIVE Enzyme Pet Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads.
Top Recommendation: ACTIVE Enzyme Pet Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads
Why We Recommend It: It excels in natural stain and odor removal with its bio-based enzymes, effectively tackling pet urine, vomit, and dirt. Its all-in-one formula is compatible with all fabrics, eliminating the need for additional treatments. Unlike Febreze, which mainly masks odors, ACTIVE actually removes them. Its fragrance-free, gentle formulation is ideal for sensitive pets, and its bulk size offers great value—making it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best detergent for pet bedding: Our Top 5 Picks
- ACTIVE Enzyme Pet Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads – Best for Heavy Duty Cleaning
- Febreze Pet Odor Eliminator Laundry Additive 98 fl oz – Best for Removing Pet Stains
- Pet Parents® PetTergent®, Enzymatic Pet Laundry Detergent, – Best Value
- Poochie Suds Pet Laundry Detergent, Enzyme Cleaner, 16 fl oz – Best Premium Option
- LaundraPet 3X Enzymatic Laundry Detergent 64 Oz – Best for Colored Clothes
ACTIVE Enzyme Pet Laundry Detergent, 64 Loads
- ✓ Natural enzymatic cleaning
- ✓ Effective on tough odors
- ✓ Suitable for all fabrics
- ✕ May need pre-soaking
- ✕ Less effective on heavily soiled items
| Formulation | Concentrated Powder with Bio-Based Enzymes |
| Capacity | 64 loads per package |
| Suitable Water Temperatures | Cold, Warm, Hot |
| Enzyme Types Targeted | Pet urine, cat & dog pee, vomit, slobber, dirt, grime, oils, protein stains |
| Chemical Composition | Free of harsh chemicals, fragrance-free, natural ingredients |
| Application Compatibility | All fabric types, including pet bedding, clothing, furniture covers, and more |
The moment I poured this ACTIVE Enzyme Pet Laundry Detergent into my washing machine, I noticed how fine the powder was—almost like a silky dust that dissolved quickly.
It’s compact and straightforward to scoop, which makes handling so much easier than bulky liquids. Plus, it doesn’t leave any residue or overpowering scent, which I really appreciate for sensitive noses.
What impressed me most is how effectively it tackled stubborn pet odors—especially from my dog’s bed and blankets. After a single wash, I could barely smell any wet dog smell, just a clean freshness that was subtle but noticeable.
The enzyme formula really shines on stains like urine and slobber. I pre-soaked some heavily soiled items, and after just two hours, the stains looked visibly lighter, saving me a lot of scrubbing.
It’s versatile, too—works great on all fabric types, including my own bedding, without any chemical harshness. I love that it’s fragrance-free, so I don’t worry about irritating my skin or my pets.
Using it on cold water was just as effective as warm, which saves energy and keeps delicate fabrics safe. Overall, it’s a no-fuss, powerful solution that keeps my pet laundry smelling fresh and clean—without the chemical smell many other products have.
If you’re tired of fighting pet smells with air fresheners or scented detergents, this might be your new go-to. It’s strong, natural, and definitely budget-friendly—making pet laundry a breeze.
Febreze Pet Odor Eliminator Laundry Additive 98 fl oz
- ✓ Powerful odor removal
- ✓ Safe for all fabrics
- ✓ Long-lasting fresh scent
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs pre-treatment for extreme odors
| Product Volume | 98 fluid ounces (approximately 2.9 liters) |
| Application Type | In-wash laundry additive for pet odors |
| Compatibility | Safe with laundry detergent pods, liquid detergents, fabric softeners, and bleaches |
| Usage Instructions | Use 1 to 2 capfuls depending on odor severity; pre-treat with hot water for tough odors |
| Target Odors | Pet odors from fabrics, pet beds, sofas, pet carriers, collars, and urine |
| Suitable for | Regular and high-efficiency washing machines |
You know that awful moment when you peel back your pet’s bedding and are hit with a cloud of stubborn odor that just won’t quit? I’ve been there, and it’s honestly frustrating trying different detergents that promise to eliminate pet smells but fall short.
That’s when I tried the Febreze Pet Odor Eliminator laundry additive, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
From the first load, I noticed how strong yet fresh the scent was—nothing overpowering, just a clean, odor-free smell that lingered without being artificial. The bottle is quite large at 98 fl oz, so you can use it multiple times without worrying about running out quickly.
I pretreated a particularly pungent dog bed by soaking it in hot water with a capful, and the odors practically dissolved before my eyes.
Adding it to my regular wash was seamless. It’s compatible with all types of laundry products, so no need to switch detergents.
I used the recommended amount for heavy odors, and it really did the trick, even on stubborn urine smells. Plus, it’s safe for use on a variety of fabrics, from sofa covers to pet collars, which is a huge plus.
The best part? The fresh scent it leaves behind isn’t just masking odors but actually neutralizing them.
I appreciated how easy it was to use, with clear instructions for different odor levels. Honestly, it made my laundry process less of a chore and kept my home smelling fresh and inviting.
Pet Parents® PetTergent®, Enzymatic Pet Laundry Detergent,
- ✓ Pet-safe ingredients
- ✓ Effectively removes odors
- ✓ Eco-friendly packaging
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited scent options
| Active Enzymes | Naturally-occurring enzyme blends for stain removal |
| Biodegradable Surfactants | Pet-safe, biodegradable surfactants used for cleaning |
| Ingredients | Over 90% bio-based and derived from natural sources |
| pH Level | Formulated to be gentle and safe for pet skin and noses (likely near neutral pH) |
| Packaging | Recyclable bottles |
| Safety Certifications | Approved by EPA Safer Chemicals Ingredients list |
Many people assume that any laundry detergent can handle pet bedding, but I quickly learned that’s a misconception. Human detergents often leave behind stubborn pet odors or fail to fully clean pet stains, which is frustrating when your furry friend’s bed still smells like yesterday’s mess.
PetTergent immediately stood out with its gentle yet powerful formula. I tested it on a variety of pet items—dog blankets, plush toys, and bedding—and was surprised by how effectively it tackled the ‘dog smell’ without any artificial scents.
Its enzyme blend worked on tough stains like mud and saliva, breaking them down without harsh chemicals.
What I appreciated most was how safe it felt. The ingredients are natural, pet-safe, and free from bleach or ammonia, which can irritate sensitive skin or noses.
After washing, my pet’s bedding looked brighter, smelled fresher, and I didn’t worry about residual chemicals. Plus, the biodegradable packaging is a big win for eco-conscious pet owners like me.
Using PetTergent, I noticed that I didn’t need additional sprays or boosters anymore, saving me money and clutter. It’s clear this product is designed with pet health in mind, not just cleaning power.
Overall, it’s a game-changer for anyone tired of battling pet odors with ineffective or unsafe products.
Poochie Suds Pet Laundry Detergent, Enzyme Cleaner, 16 fl oz
- ✓ Gentle on sensitive skin
- ✓ Effective odor neutralizer
- ✓ Eco-friendly packaging
- ✕ Slightly less effective on deep stains
- ✕ Needs pre-soak for tough messes
| Enzymes | Naturally derived enzymes for breaking down stains and odors |
| Volume | 16 fluid ounces (473 ml) |
| Load Capacity | Up to 32 laundry loads |
| Usage Instructions | Two capfuls for regular loads, four for heavily soiled loads |
| Formulation | Hypoallergenic, dye-free, fragrance-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free |
| Made In | USA |
This Poochie Suds Pet Laundry Detergent has been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a gentle but effective way to clean my dog’s bedding without all the overpowering chemical smells. When I finally got a bottle in my hands, I was curious if it could really handle those stubborn stains and odors that seem to cling to pet stuff no matter what.
From the first load, I noticed how easy it was to use—just two capfuls for regular laundry. The enzyme formula immediately started breaking down drool and food stains, which I usually struggle to get out with regular detergent.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s fragrance-free—no artificial scents clinging to the bedding, just a neutral clean that neutralized odors at the source.
What really stood out is how gentle it felt on my pet’s sensitive skin. No dyes, no sulfates, just a hypoallergenic clean that I felt good about using around my allergy-prone dog.
The concentrated formula also means I got about 32 loads from the bottle, making it a great value. I did notice that for really heavy or deep stains, a pre-soak helped boost results, but overall, it handled everyday messes like a champ.
It’s reassuring to know it’s made in the USA with thoughtful ingredients and packaged in recyclable materials. Plus, it’s never tested on animals, which aligns nicely with my values.
Overall, this detergent did exactly what I hoped—deep cleaned and deodorized without irritation, and I’ll definitely keep using it for my pet bedding and soft toys.
LaundraPet 3X Enzymatic Laundry Detergent 64 Oz
- ✓ Strong enzymatic cleaning
- ✓ Fresh, natural scent
- ✓ Suitable for high-efficiency washers
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Smaller bottle might need frequent refills
| Size | 64 ounces (1.89 liters) |
| Enzymatic Power | Triple-action enzymatic formula with 3x cleaning efficacy |
| Suitable Water Temperature | Effective in cold water |
| Wash Capacity | Up to 96 loads per bottle (1 oz for HE washers, 2 oz for regular washers) |
| Formulation | Low-sudsing, all-natural, pet-safe, dermatologist-approved |
| Compatibility | Suitable for high-efficiency (HE) washing machines |
After hearing so much about the LaundraPet 3X Enzymatic Laundry Detergent, I finally decided to give it a shot for my dog’s bedding. The first thing that caught my eye was how thick and rich the liquid is—definitely feels like a powerful formula right from the bottle.
Once I poured it into the wash, I noticed it foams up just enough without being overwhelming, which is great for my high-efficiency machine. I used about 2 ounces, as recommended, and was surprised how well it handled some stubborn stains from my pup’s recent adventures outside.
The real test was the smell. I was expecting a chemical scent, but instead, it left a fresh, clean aroma that wasn’t overpowering.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s vet-approved and all-natural, so I don’t worry about harsh chemicals near my pet.
What really stood out is its enzymatic power—this stuff is triple action, and I could tell because my bedding looked brighter and felt softer afterward. It also rinsed out easily, leaving no residue or sticky feel behind, which is a huge plus for sensitive noses.
Since it’s formulated for cold water, I saved some energy on my last wash, and the low-sudsing formula worked perfectly in my HE washer. Overall, it’s a solid pick for pet owners who want a safe, effective, and eco-friendly detergent that tackles odor and stains without fuss.
What Should You Look for in a Detergent for Pet Bedding?
When choosing the best detergent for pet bedding, several key factors should be considered to ensure both cleanliness and safety for your pets.
- Hypoallergenic Formula: Look for detergents that are labeled hypoallergenic to minimize the risk of allergic reactions in pets with sensitive skin. These formulas are typically free from harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate your pet’s skin and respiratory system.
- Enzyme-Based Cleaners: Enzyme-based detergents are effective at breaking down organic stains and odors, making them ideal for pet bedding. They target proteins and fats in pet waste and other messes, which helps eliminate smells and maintain a fresh environment for your pets.
- Eco-Friendly Ingredients: Choosing a detergent that utilizes biodegradable and eco-friendly ingredients is beneficial for both your pets and the environment. These detergents are less likely to leave harmful residues on bedding that could be ingested or absorbed by your pets.
- Odor Neutralizers: Detergents that include odor-neutralizing properties can help keep pet bedding smelling fresh between washes. These additives work to eliminate odors rather than just masking them, ensuring that your pet’s sleeping area remains pleasant.
- Color Safe and Non-Bleaching: It’s important to select a detergent that is color safe and non-bleaching, especially if your pet’s bedding is colored or patterned. This ensures that the fabrics remain vibrant and do not suffer damage during washing.
- Concentrated Formula: A concentrated detergent can be more effective and economical, as it often requires less product per load. This can be especially beneficial for pet owners who frequently wash bedding, as it allows for more washes with a smaller amount of detergent.
Which Ingredients Are Safe for Pets in Laundry Detergents?
The safe ingredients for pets in laundry detergents include:
- Plant-based surfactants: These are derived from natural sources like coconut or corn and are generally less irritating to pets. They effectively clean while being gentler on the skin and environment.
- Enzymes: Enzymatic cleaners break down stains and odors effectively without harsh chemicals. When sourced responsibly, they can be safe for pets and help maintain a fresh environment for pet bedding.
- Baking soda: This natural deodorizer is safe for pets and helps neutralize odors in laundry. It’s an excellent additive for pet bedding, ensuring it stays fresh without harmful chemicals.
- Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural fabric softener and deodorizer that’s safe for pets. It can help eliminate odors and soften fabrics, making it a great choice for washing pet bedding.
- Essential oils (pet-safe varieties): Some essential oils, like lavender or chamomile, can be safe for pets in very diluted forms. They can add a pleasant scent to laundry, but it’s crucial to ensure that the oils used are non-toxic to animals.
How Can You Identify Hypoallergenic Detergents for Pets?
Identifying hypoallergenic detergents for pet bedding involves looking for specific features and certifications.
- Free of Harsh Chemicals: Look for detergents that do not contain phosphates, chlorine bleach, or synthetic fragrances. These ingredients can irritate sensitive skin and exacerbate allergies in both pets and humans.
- Plant-Based Ingredients: Many hypoallergenic detergents use plant-derived cleaning agents that are gentler on the skin. These natural ingredients can effectively clean without the harshness of traditional chemicals, making them safer for your pet’s bedding.
- Allergy Testing and Certifications: Seek out detergents that are labeled hypoallergenic or have been dermatologically tested. Certifications from reputable organizations can provide assurance that the product is suitable for those with allergies.
- Enzyme-Based Cleaners: Detergents that utilize enzymes can effectively break down stains and odors while being less likely to cause allergic reactions. These enzymes target specific types of stains, making them a great choice for pet bedding.
- Fragrance-Free Options: Choose detergents that are free from added fragrances, as these can cause allergic reactions in pets. Unscented options can still provide effective cleaning power without the risk of irritants.
What Are the Benefits of Using Pet-Specific Laundry Detergents?
The benefits of using pet-specific laundry detergents include enhanced cleaning power, safety for pets, and odor elimination.
- Enhanced Cleaning Power: Pet-specific laundry detergents are formulated to effectively remove pet stains, hair, and dander that regular detergents may struggle with. They often contain enzymes that break down organic materials, ensuring a thorough clean that is essential for pet bedding.
- Safety for Pets: These detergents are designed to be free of harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate pets’ skin or respiratory systems. Using pet-safe products reduces the risk of allergic reactions and ensures that your furry friends are not exposed to harmful substances.
- Odor Elimination: Pet-specific detergents often include odor-neutralizing agents that target the unpleasant smells associated with pets. This is particularly important for bedding, as it can harbor odors that linger even after washing with regular detergent.
- Hypoallergenic Formulations: Many pet-specific detergents are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for pets and owners who have sensitivities or allergies. This feature helps create a healthier environment for both pets and humans, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions.
- Color and Fabric Safety: These detergents are typically designed to be safe for a variety of fabrics and colors, ensuring that pet bedding maintains its appearance and quality after multiple washes. This is crucial for preserving the longevity of pet items, which are often subject to frequent laundering.
How Do Enzyme-Based Detergents Work on Pet Stains and Odors?
Enzyme-based detergents are specifically designed to tackle pet stains and odors effectively through the action of specific enzymes that break down organic materials.
- Proteases: These enzymes target protein-based stains, such as urine and vomit, by breaking down the protein molecules into smaller fragments, making them easier to rinse away.
- Amylases: Amylases focus on starches and carbohydrates, which can be present in pet food residues and other organic stains. They work by hydrolyzing these compounds, allowing for better cleaning and odor removal.
- Lipases: Lipases are effective against fat-based stains, like those caused by greasy substances or oils from pet fur. They break down the lipids, facilitating their removal during the washing process.
- Cellulases: These enzymes help break down cellulose, which can be found in plant-based fibers. They improve the cleaning of fabrics by preventing dirt from re-depositing on the surfaces after wash, thus ensuring a more thorough clean.
- Odor Neutralizers: Many enzyme-based detergents also contain additional compounds that neutralize odors rather than just masking them. This combination enhances the overall effectiveness of the detergent in combating pet-related smells.
What Makes Pet-Safe Detergents Ideal for Sensitive Pets?
Pet-safe detergents are ideal for sensitive pets due to their gentle formulations and lack of harsh chemicals.
- Non-toxic Ingredients: Pet-safe detergents are formulated without harmful chemicals such as phosphates, bleach, or synthetic fragrances, which can irritate a pet’s skin or respiratory system. These ingredients ensure that the detergent is safe for pets that may come into direct contact with washed bedding.
- Hypoallergenic Properties: Many pet-safe detergents are designed to be hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of allergic reactions in pets with sensitive skin or allergies. This is particularly important for pets that may have pre-existing conditions or sensitivities to common allergens found in standard detergents.
- Biodegradable Formulas: These detergents often utilize biodegradable materials, making them more environmentally friendly and safer for pets. This ensures that any residue left on bedding will break down naturally, posing minimal risk to pets who may chew or play on their bedding.
- Effective Cleaning Power: Despite being gentle, pet-safe detergents are still effective in removing stains and odors from pet bedding. They are designed to tackle tough messes while maintaining a pet-friendly profile, ensuring that pet owners do not have to compromise on cleanliness for safety.
- Fragrance-Free or Naturally Scented: Many pet-safe detergents either avoid synthetic fragrances or use natural alternatives that are less likely to cause irritation. This is beneficial for pets who may be sensitive to strong scents, providing a clean environment without overwhelming odors.
What Are the Top Detergent Brands Recommended for Pet Bedding?
When it comes to washing pet bedding, certain detergent brands stand out for their effectiveness and safety for pets.
- Seventh Generation Free & Clear: This plant-based detergent is free from dyes and fragrances, making it an excellent choice for pet bedding as it minimizes the risk of skin irritations in sensitive animals.
- Tide Free & Gentle: Tide’s hypoallergenic formula is designed to be tough on stains while being gentle on fabrics, making it safe for washing pet bedding without leaving harmful residues.
- Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin: This detergent incorporates baking soda to help neutralize odors while being formulated for those with sensitive skin, making it a great option for households with pets.
- Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Lavender: Known for its delightful scent derived from essential oils, this detergent is biodegradable and free of harsh chemicals, making it safe for washing pet items.
- Purex Baby: Specifically formulated for baby clothes, this gentle detergent is also suitable for pet bedding, ensuring that it is soft and free from allergens.
Seventh Generation Free & Clear is particularly popular because of its commitment to sustainability and safety, catering to pet owners who are conscious about the ingredients in their household products. It effectively removes dirt and odors without compromising the health of your furry friends.
Tide Free & Gentle is a trusted brand known for its cleaning power, and its hypoallergenic formulation means it can tackle tough messes while ensuring that there are no harmful chemicals left on the bedding that could affect your pets.
Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin leverages the natural deodorizing properties of baking soda, providing effective odor control while being gentle enough for the most sensitive animal skin. It’s a solid choice for pet owners looking for effective cleaning without irritation.
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Lavender combines cleaning efficacy with a soothing scent, making laundry day more pleasant while ensuring that your pet’s bedding is clean and safe. Its plant-derived ingredients appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
Purex Baby is designed to be exceptionally gentle, making it appropriate for all kinds of delicate fabrics, including pet bedding. Its formulation is particularly useful for pet owners who have animals with allergies or sensitive skin.
Which Pet Bedding Detergents Have the Most Positive Reviews?
The best detergents for pet bedding are those that effectively clean while being safe for your pets. Here are some top-rated options:
- Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent: This detergent is known for its plant-based ingredients and lack of artificial fragrances, making it a safe choice for pet bedding. It is hypoallergenic and effective in removing pet odors and stains without harsh chemicals that could irritate sensitive skin.
- Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent: Tide’s Free & Gentle formula is free from dyes and perfumes, making it an excellent choice for pet owners concerned about allergies. It provides powerful cleaning capabilities while being gentle on the environment and your furry friends.
- Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free & Clear: This detergent combines the cleaning power of baking soda with a gentle formula designed for sensitive skin. It effectively eliminates pet odors and stains while being free of harmful dyes and fragrances, making it a popular choice among pet owners.
- Persil ProClean Sensitive Skin: Persil is known for its strong stain-fighting abilities, and the Sensitive Skin variant is formulated without dyes or perfumes. This makes it suitable for washing pet bedding, as it delivers excellent cleaning results while being gentle on your pet’s skin.
- EcoSMART Organic Laundry Detergent: This eco-friendly detergent is made from 100% natural ingredients and is safe for the environment as well as your pets. It effectively cleans pet bedding while being free of harsh chemicals, making it a great option for environmentally conscious pet owners.
How Should You Wash Pet Bedding for Optimal Results?
What Techniques Ensure Your Pet’s Bedding Is Thoroughly Cleaned?
To ensure your pet’s bedding is thoroughly cleaned, consider the following techniques:
- Choosing the Right Detergent: Selecting the best detergent for pet bedding is essential for effective cleaning. Look for detergents that are specifically formulated to eliminate pet odors and stains, and are free from harsh chemicals that could irritate your pet’s skin.
- Pre-Treating Stains: Before washing, pre-treat any visible stains on the bedding with a stain remover. This step allows the cleaning agents to penetrate the fabric more effectively, making it easier to remove tough stains like urine or mud.
- Washing in Hot Water: Whenever possible, wash pet bedding in hot water to ensure that bacteria and allergens are effectively killed. Hot water helps to dissolve dirt and oils, providing a deeper clean compared to cold or warm water.
- Using a Gentle Cycle: While hot water is effective, using a gentle cycle helps to preserve the fabric of the bedding. This balance allows for thorough cleaning without damaging the materials, which can be especially important for delicate or fluffy bedding.
- Drying Thoroughly: After washing, ensure that the bedding is dried completely, either in a dryer or by air drying. This step is crucial to prevent mildew and odors from developing, as damp bedding can harbor bacteria.
- Regular Cleaning Schedule: Establishing a regular cleaning schedule for your pet’s bedding can help maintain hygiene. Depending on your pet’s shedding and activity levels, washing once a week or every two weeks can significantly reduce allergens and odors.