How to Clean a Dog Blanket Without Ruining It
By Charlie Scott's | Published: 2026-10-21
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to wash a dog blanket safely—from checking labels to drying—so it stays soft, fresh, and lasts longer.
Quick Answer
Most dog blankets can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent, then air-dried or tumble-dried on low. The key is to always check the care label first and avoid fabric softener to prevent pilling.
Why care labels matter more than fabric type
Dog blankets come in different materials—plush, faux fur, suede—and each has its own washing limits. For example, the Scruffs Cosy Dog Blanket has a plush side and a faux suede reverse; washing it on hot or using bleach could damage that suede finish. The care label is the only reliable guide, so read it before you fill the machine.
Fabric softener is not your friend
It may seem like a good idea to make the blanket extra soft, but fabric softener coats the fibers and reduces absorbency. On plush or faux fur blankets like the Scruffs Aspen Dog Blanket, it can also cause matting and pilling. Stick to a mild detergent and skip the softener entirely.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing a Dog Blanket
- 1. Check the care label and pre-treat stains: Look for washing symbols on the tag. Spot-clean any stubborn stains with a small amount of mild detergent and a soft brush before putting the blanket in the machine. Skipping the label can lead to shrinkage or damage; always check first.
- 2. Choose a gentle cycle with cold water: Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water (30°C / 86°F max). Add a small amount of mild, liquid detergent—no bleach, no fabric softener. Hot water can shrink or warp synthetic fibers, especially on reversible blankets.
- 3. Dry on low heat or air-dry: Tumble dry on the lowest heat setting, or lay the blanket flat to air-dry. Remove it from the dryer while still slightly damp to reduce static and prevent over-drying. High heat can melt or mat plush/faux fur surfaces, so low heat is safest.
Products Mentioned
- Scruffs Snuggle Dog Blanket: The Scruffs Snuggle Dog Blanket combines soft plush comfort with a practical reversible design. Because both sides are plush, it needs a gentle cycle and low heat to keep the fabric from pilling.
Scruffs Snuggle Dog Blanket - Scruffs Cosy Dog Blanket: The Scruffs Cosy Dog Blanket has a warm plush side and a soft faux suede reverse. The suede side is more delicate, so avoid high heat and harsh detergents that could stiffen or crack the finish.
