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How to Stop Dog Beds from Smelling in Summer (2026 Guide)
Hot weather magnifies wetness and odors in dog bedding: sweat, damp fur, accidents and humidity all turn beds into odor traps. If you want a practical, low-effort solution this summer, read on. This guide shows simple routines and product-focused fixes—washable covers, waterproof liners, and odor-resistant pads—so you can keep beds dry and fresh. We tested and prioritized items that are machine-washable, breathable, and built to resist moisture and odor. Products were chosen for washability, absorbency, fit, and real customer feedback on smell and durability.
Quick Answer
The fastest way to stop dog beds from smelling in summer is to use machine-washable, moisture-wicking layers plus a waterproof liner and regular laundering. Our top pick, Washable Pee Pads for Dogs (18x24) by ESGPET (ASIN: B0DT358DHD), combines super-absorbent layers, anti-slip backing and odor control so you can wash and dry frequently to eliminate summer smells.
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
Select 2-3 products to compare side-by-side
| Compare | Product | Rating | Price Tier | Key Feature | Best For | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ESGPET 18x24 Washable Pads
|
(650+ ratings) | Budget | 4-layer super-absorbent, odor control | Frequent washing and crate liners | Check Price | |
ESGPET 34x36 Washable Pads
|
(650+ ratings) | Mid-Range | Large-size quick-absorb layers | Large crates & playpen floors | Check Price | |
ESGPET 41x36 Washable Pads
|
(650+ ratings) | Budget | Extra-large size for full-bed coverage | Full dog beds and whelping areas | Check Price | |
MidWest QuietTime MAXX (Large)
|
(4.9K+ ratings) | Premium | Water & odor resistant polyester cover | Crate beds needing rugged protection | Check Price | |
MidWest QuietTime MAXX (XL)
|
(4.8K+ ratings) | Premium | Extra-large water-resistant cover | Extra-large breeds in crates | Check Price |
1. Washable Pee Pads for Dogs - 18x24 8PCS, Whelping Pad for Puppy Training, Playpen Crate Bed Floor Protector, Reusable Dog Potty Pads Non-Slip, Super Absorbent & Odor Controlling, Brown Plaid
These 18x24 reusable pads solve summer smell by absorbing liquid quickly, locking it in with multi-layer construction, and letting you machine-wash them for frequent odor removal. Anti-slip backing keeps the pad in place in crates and on floors so moisture stays trapped inside the pad instead of spreading to bedding.
Key Specs
- Four-layer high-density polyester absorbent core
- Machine washable and reusable
- Non-slip backing to prevent sliding
- Available in 18x24 size, pack of 8
Pros
- Very washable—machines through multiple cycles without losing absorbency
- Strong absorbency reduces moisture transfer to bed covers
- Good value for multiple pads to rotate and dry
Cons
- A few users reported occasional leakage under heavy saturation
- Size may be small for very large crates or dogs
Best For: Frequent washing and crate liners
Check Latest Price on Amazon2. Washable Pee Pads for Dogs - 34x36 6PCS, Whelping Pad for Puppy Training, Playpen Crate Bed Floor Protector, Reusable Dog Potty Pads Non-Slip, Super Absorbent & Odor Controlling, Brown Plaid
The 34x36 pads give more coverage and the same multi-layer absorbent construction so you can protect bigger beds and rotate pads for regular washing. Customers praise durability and washability—meaning fewer lingering summer smells when you follow a washing routine.
Key Specs
- Four-layer high-density polyester construction
- Machine washable, reusable design
- Anti-tear fabric with non-slip bottom
- Pack of 6, 34x36 size
Pros
- Larger coverage for big crates and beds
- Durable through multiple washes
- Effective at daytime potty training and bed protection
Cons
- Mixed reports on leak resistance when heavily soiled
- Mid-range price may be higher than single disposable alternatives
Best For: Large crates & playpen floors
Check Latest Price on Amazon3. Washable Pee Pads for Dogs - 41x36 4PCS, Whelping Pad for Puppy Training, Playpen Crate Bed Floor Protector, Reusable Dog Potty Pads Non-Slip, Super Absorbent & Odor Controlling, Pink Plaid
These extra-large washable pads are meant to sit under or over a bed and trap sweat, spills and accidents before they reach the mattress. Because they’re reusable and machine-washable, they’re an economical way to keep bedding fresh all summer by rotating and laundering frequently.
Key Specs
- Four-layer polymer/polyester absorbent core
- Machine washable and reusable
- Anti-slip backing and anti-tear design
- Pack of 4, 41x36 size
Pros
- Great coverage reduces odor transfer to the actual bed
- Good value when you need fewer, larger pads
- Easy to wash and quick to dry when laid flat
Cons
- Some users report variable leak performance under heavy use
- Only four pads in pack—may require frequent washing for heavy users
Best For: Full dog beds and whelping areas
Check Latest Price on Amazon4. MidWest Homes for Pets Large QuietTime MAXX Ultra-Rugged Dog Bed, Water & Odor Resistant, Bolstered Edge, Non-Slip Bottom, Fits 42-inch Crates, Camo
This bolstered crate bed uses a water-repellent polyester cover and machine-washable shell to resist moisture and odors, so surface spills and elevated summer humidity are less likely to penetrate the cushion. Its rugged cover lets you spot-clean or machine-wash to remove smells faster than foam-only beds.
Key Specs
- Water-resistant polyester cover
- Polyfiber-filled bolsters and cushioned base
- Non-slip bottom and machine washable
- Sized to fit common crates (example: fits 42-inch crates)
Pros
- Comfortable bolsters and good crate fit
- Cover is easy to clean—spot clean or machine wash
- Sturdy feel and good initial value for price
Cons
- Durability and chew resistance receive mixed reviews
- Some users find it less plush than expected
Best For: Crate beds needing rugged protection
Check Latest Price on Amazon5. MidWest Homes for Pets XL QuietTime MAXX Ultra-Rugged Dog Bed, Water & Odor Resistant, Bolstered Edge, Non-Slip Bottom, Fits 48-inch Crates, Brick
The XL QuietTime MAXX offers the same water- and odor-resistant cover as the Large but in bigger sizes for large breeds; machine-washable materials make removing summer odors simpler. It’s a good choice when you want a single padded bed that resists spills and can be laundered occasionally.
Key Specs
- Water-resistant polyester shell
- Polyfiber bolsters with cushioned base
- Non-slip underside and machine-washable shell
- Sized to fit 48-inch crates
Pros
- Good fit for extra-large crates and big dogs
- Cover that resists surface moisture and odor
- Easy to clean compared with non-removable foam beds
Cons
- Some buyers report tearing or shredding with heavy chewing
- Not all users find the padding thick enough for deep comfort
Best For: Extra-large breeds in crates
Check Latest Price on AmazonWhich One Should You Choose?
If budget is tight → pick ESGPET 41x36 pads (ASIN: B0CM8P3H73) for maximum coverage and low cost. If you want the best balance of size, durability and value → choose ESGPET 34x36 (ASIN: B0DT325CTW). If you prefer a full padded crate bed with a water-resistant shell → go with MidWest QuietTime MAXX (ASIN: B00CEWFIAO) for easier spot cleaning and comfort.
Best for Specific Scenarios
- Crate liners for puppies: ESGPET 18x24 pads (B0DT358DHD) because small, washable pads let you rotate and launder multiple times per week.
- Covering a full dog bed: ESGPET 41x36 pads (B0CM8P3H73) because the extra-large size traps moisture before it reaches the mattress.
- Comfort plus protection: MidWest QuietTime MAXX (B00CEWFIAO) because its water-resistant shell protects the cushion and is easy to clean when summer humidity spikes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do dog beds smell worse in summer?
Higher temperatures and humidity speed bacterial growth on sweat, dander and urine residues; damp fabrics dry more slowly in humid air, allowing odor-causing microbes to multiply and produce stronger smells.
How often should I wash bed covers and pads in summer?
Wash removable covers and absorbent pads at least once a week during hot months, and immediately after any wetting event. If your dog drools or sweats heavily, rotate and launder liners every few days to prevent odor buildup.
Are waterproof liners safe for dog beds?
Yes—waterproof liners with TPU or vinyl backing are safe and very effective at preventing liquids from soaking into foam. Look for breathable, soft-backed liners (not rigid plastic) and always allow the bed to air out between uses.
Can I use deodorizing sprays or baking soda to stop bed smells?
Deodorizers can mask odors temporarily; baking soda can absorb surface smells. However, they don’t remove bacteria inside fabrics or foam. The most reliable fix is cleaning: wash covers, launder absorbent pads, and replace or protect foam with liners.
What if the foam core already smells?
If foam is deeply saturated or retains odor after airing, cleanable options are limited—encase the foam in a waterproof shell and use washable liners, but for persistent smell, replacing the foam is often the most sanitary solution.
How We Selected These Products
Our recommendations are based on data-driven analysis: we evaluated 40125+ products across 6371+ brands using a composite scoring system that weighs rating (40%), review volume (30%), price value (20%), and demand signals (10%). Every product is ranked by data, not opinions.
Last updated: May 07, 2026
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