How to Wash Dog Sweaters Without Ruining Them: A Complete Guide

How to wash dog sweaters without ruining them is something every pet parent eventually wonders about. Whether your pup wears cozy knits during chilly walks or stylish sweaters year-round, knowing how to clean them properly can make a big difference. The wrong washing method can stretch, shrink, or fade your dog’s favorite outfit, leaving it misshapen or uncomfortable.

This guide will walk you through the safest ways to wash dog sweaters — step by step — so they stay soft, fresh, and long-lasting. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right detergent to whether it’s okay to use a washing machine or dryer.

If your dog’s wardrobe is growing fast, be sure to also check out our post on dog sweaters for small dogs to discover cozy, stylish options worth adding to your collection.

How to Wash a Dog Sweater (Step-by-Step Guide)

Washing your dog’s sweater the right way helps it last longer and keeps your pup comfortable. Whether you’re cleaning a chunky knit or a lightweight fleece, a little care goes a long way in preventing damage. Here’s how to wash dog sweaters without ruining them step by step.

🧼 What You’ll Need:

• Pet-safe detergent (mild, fragrance-free)
• A soft brush or lint roller
• Mesh laundry bag or pillowcase
• Cold or lukewarm water
• A clean towel for drying

Step 1: Check the Label
Always start by reading the care label. Some dog sweaters can go in the washing machine, while others require gentle hand washing. Pay attention to fabric type—cotton, acrylic, or wool each needs a slightly different approach.

Step 2: Shake and Brush
Remove loose fur and debris with a lint roller or brush before washing. This prevents buildup in your washer or sink.

Step 3: Hand Wash or Machine Wash (Gentle Cycle)
If hand washing, fill a sink or basin with cool water and mix in a small amount of pet-safe detergent. Submerge the sweater, gently squeeze the fabric, and soak for 10–15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
If using a machine, turn the sweater inside out and place it in a mesh laundry bag. Use the gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent.

Step 4: Rinse and Press (Don’t Twist)
After washing, rinse out any remaining soap and press out excess water with your hands or a towel. Avoid wringing, which can stretch the fabric.

Step 5: Lay Flat to Dry
Place the sweater on a flat towel in a shaded area. Reshape it to its original form and let it air dry completely. Avoid hanging it, as this can cause stretching.

These simple steps ensure your dog’s favorite sweaters stay soft, clean, and in shape all season long.

Is It Okay to Wash Dog Clothes in the Washing Machine?

Yes — washing dog clothes in the washing machine is perfectly fine, as long as you follow a few simple rules. Many modern dog sweaters are designed to handle gentle cycles, but not all fabrics are made equal. Learning how to wash dog sweaters without ruining them starts with knowing which items can safely go in the washer.

Check the fabric first. Cotton and acrylic blends usually do well in the washing machine, while wool or handmade knits need gentler care. Always use a cold or lukewarm cycle with mild, pet-safe detergent.

Use a mesh laundry bag. Placing the sweater in a mesh bag or pillowcase keeps it protected from snagging on zippers or rough surfaces inside the washer.

Skip fabric softeners and bleach. These can leave residue that irritates your dog’s skin or damage the fibers over time.

Dry naturally. Never put dog sweaters in the dryer. Even low heat can shrink or warp the material. Always air dry on a flat towel to keep the original shape intact.

Machine washing can be convenient and effective when done carefully — saving time while still keeping your pup’s wardrobe fresh, soft, and clean.

How Often Should You Wash Dog Coats

How often you wash dog sweaters depends on how active your pup is and how quickly the fabric gets dirty. As a general rule, sweaters should be washed every two to three wears, or more often if your dog loves playing outdoors.

Dogs with sensitive skin or allergies may need their sweaters cleaned more frequently to prevent irritation from trapped dirt, hair, or oils. Meanwhile, if your dog mostly stays indoors, washing less often can help preserve the softness and color of the fabric.

Here’s a simple breakdown to follow:

• After muddy walks or rainy weather: Wash immediately.
• After light indoor wear: Every 2–3 uses.
• If your dog sheds a lot: Brush off fur after each wear and wash weekly.
• During winter months: Rotate between sweaters to give each one time to air out between uses.

Keeping up with this schedule ensures your dog’s sweaters stay fresh, clean, and comfortable without wearing out the material too quickly.

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How to Wash Dog Coats Without Ruining Them With Human Clothes

You can wash dog sweaters with human clothes, but only under certain conditions. The key to learning how to wash dog sweaters without ruining them — or your own laundry — is separating items based on fabric type and cleanliness.

If your dog’s sweater is only lightly worn, it’s safe to wash it with similar fabrics such as cotton T-shirts or towels. Just make sure to use a pet-safe detergent that’s gentle on skin and fragrance-free, since your dog’s nose is far more sensitive than yours.

However, avoid mixing your dog’s laundry with heavily soiled or delicate human items. Mud, fur, and pet dander can cling to other clothes or clog your washing machine’s filter. It’s best to run an extra rinse cycle afterward to ensure no pet hair or detergent residue remains.

For a simple routine, designate one laundry day just for your dog’s items. It helps keep everything cleaner and avoids any cross-contamination from human laundry.

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Can I Put Dog Clothes in the Dryer?

After learning how to wash dog sweaters without ruining them, the next big question is whether you can safely toss them in the dryer. While it might be tempting to speed up drying time, the truth is that most dog sweaters should air dry to prevent shrinking, stretching, or fabric damage.

Dog sweaters are often made from delicate materials like wool, acrylic, or fleece, which can lose their shape under heat. Instead of using the dryer, gently press out excess water with a towel and lay the sweater flat on a drying rack. This method keeps fibers soft and helps the garment maintain its original fit — especially important for small dogs who rely on a perfect fit for comfort.

If you absolutely need to use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and place the sweater inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. Remove it while it’s still slightly damp to finish air drying. Avoid over-drying, as that can cause stiffness and fading.

Air drying may take longer, but it’s the safest way to extend the life of your dog’s favorite sweater and keep it looking new after every wash.

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Video: The Best Way to Wash Dog Sweaters Without Ruining Them

If you prefer learning visually, the AnimalWised video “Washing a Dog’s Bedding and Clothes” offers a clear demonstration of how to wash dog sweaters safely and effectively. It explains why proper fabric care matters and how to keep your dog’s clothing, bedding, and accessories clean without damaging their texture or shape. The video emphasizes starting with the basics — always check the care label before washing, as some fabrics or inner pads are not machine-safe.

It also shows the importance of removing pet hair, dirt, and debris before washing, since these can clog your washer or stick to fabric. The expert in the video recommends using a gentle or pet-safe detergent and washing dog sweaters separately from human clothes. For machine washing, a cold or warm cycle is best, depending on the fabric, and it’s important not to overload the machine.

For those who prefer to hand wash, the video suggests using a soft cloth or gentle soak to clean delicate materials like knit sweaters, harnesses, or collars. After every wash, the instructor reminds viewers to wipe the inside of the washing machine and clean the filter to remove trapped fur. For tackling odors, a small amount of baking soda or vinegar can be added before washing — both are safe, natural ways to neutralize bad smells.

Overall, the video reinforces that knowing how to wash dog sweaters the right way helps extend their lifespan, prevent shrinkage, and keep your pup’s favorite clothes soft, fresh, and ready for every chilly day.

Final Thoughts on How to Wash Dog Hoodies

Learning how to wash dog sweaters the right way can make all the difference in keeping your pup cozy and stylish all season long. A little extra care during washing ensures their favorite sweaters stay soft, keep their shape, and last through many chilly walks.

Always start by reading the label to see whether the fabric should be hand washed or machine washed. Use a pet-safe detergent and cold or lukewarm water to avoid shrinkage. After washing, skip the dryer and lay the sweater flat to air dry naturally — this simple step helps preserve the fibers and prevents stretching.

If your dog wears sweaters regularly, it’s best to wash them every one to two weeks, depending on how active your pup is and how quickly odors build up. A small touch of baking soda or vinegar can help remove smells naturally while keeping the sweater fresh.

For small dog owners, picking the right fit is just as important as washing correctly. Check out our How to Measure Your Dog for a Sweater guide to make sure every outfit fits perfectly. And if you’re looking for warm, stylish picks, our Dog Sweaters for Small Dogs roundup features some of the best options to keep your pup snug and happy all year long.

Knowing how to wash dog sweaters not only protects the fabric but also shows care for your furry friend’s comfort. With gentle washing and mindful handling, every sweater can look as good as the day you bought it.

FAQs

1. What detergent should I use for dog sweaters?
When learning how to wash dog sweaters, always choose a pet-safe, fragrance-free detergent. Harsh chemicals or strong scents can irritate your dog’s skin. Look for mild detergents made for sensitive fabrics or baby clothes, since they’re gentle and still clean effectively.

2. How often should I wash my dog’s clothes?
You should wash your dog’s sweaters about once every one to two weeks. If your pup is very active, plays outside often, or tends to get dirty, increase the frequency. Regular washing helps prevent odor buildup and keeps fabrics soft and clean.

3. Can I wash wool or handmade dog sweaters?
Yes — but with care. Wool and hand-knitted sweaters should be hand washed in cool water using a gentle detergent. Never twist or wring the sweater; instead, press out excess water and lay it flat to dry. This keeps the fibers from stretching or shrinking.

4. How do I remove pet odor without strong chemicals?
A natural way to remove pet odor is by adding ½ cup of white vinegar or baking soda during the wash cycle. These help neutralize smells without using harsh chemicals. For spot cleaning between washes, you can also mist the sweater lightly with a mix of water and vinegar.

5. Can I put my dog’s sweaters in the dryer?
While some materials can handle a short tumble on low heat, it’s usually best to air dry. The high temperatures of a dryer can shrink or damage delicate fibers. Place the sweater flat on a towel or drying rack and reshape it gently as it dries.

6. What’s the best way to store dog sweaters after washing?
Once completely dry, fold your dog’s sweaters neatly and store them in a clean, dry drawer or container. Avoid hanging them since that can cause stretching. You can also place a dryer sheet or small lavender sachet nearby to keep them smelling fresh.

7. How can I tell if it’s time to replace a dog sweater?
If the sweater feels rough, has holes, or starts losing its elasticity, it’s probably time for a new one. Proper washing and storage can extend its life, but fabrics naturally wear down over time — especially when washed frequently.