5 Best Fabrics for Dog Beds

Key Takeaway

• Consider the size, breed, age and behavior of your dog when choosing fabric.
• Opt for more durable fabrics even if they are slightly more expensive as they are likely to last longer.
• Making your own dog bed can save money.
• Observe your dog’s sleeping habits and preferences to decide on the bed design.
• The choice of filler or stuffing can also influence the design of the bed.

I have this mischievous ball of fluff named Snookums. She adores water! She is my first dog who patiently waits for her bath, loves to splash around in water, and chases the spray from the garden hose.

Unfortunately, she has long, fluffy fur and becomes a sopping mess in no time. Finding a bed that could let her dry off after a good toweling was a challenge until I found these fabrics.

Best Fabrics for Dog Beds

Here are our fabric for dog beds reviews:

1. 8.7 Oz Ottertex Polyurethane

 

In most cases, a dog bed is going to see a lot of wear and tear. It’s also probably going to have to stand up against dirt and moisture, so it’s a good idea to get a fabric that is durable, but is also easy to wash. Ripstop nylon is made from 100% nylon and is lightweight. It is soft, but is also durable, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The fabric’s weave and synthetic fibers allow it to stand up to a lot of wear and tear.

• The fabric has a durable water repellent coating to help repel water
• The fabric is very flexible and also very versatile and can be used for many different projects
• To clean, wipe down with a damp cloth

 

2. Shannon Minky Luxe Cuddle

 

Not all dog beds have to be utilitarian and industrial when it comes to the choice of fabric. Some dogs won’t require a bed that has to stand up to heavy wear and tear. Dog beds can also be softer and more luxurious. This line of minky fabric is 100% polyester and is medium weight. Polyester is generally a durable fabric and is usually easy to wash.

• Machine wash cold, tumble dry on low heat
• The fabric is extremely soft and has a 10mm fleecy pile
• This line comes in over 150 different colors and patterns

 

3. Ottertex Waterproof Canvas

 

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This heavyweight canvas is waterproof and is made from 100% polyester. Dogs can be hard on their beds, so picking the best fabrics for dog beds that will stand up against everyday use is key.

My dog is a big scratcher and has strong nails that can snag on certain materials. This line of waterproof canvas can be used both indoors and outdoors and would be a good choice for a dog bed. It comes in over thirty different colors and patterns.

• The fabric is durable and resilient and will stand up against wear and tear, even dog nails.
• The fabric is also very versatile and can be used for many different projects
• To clean, wipe with a damp cloth

 

4. Micro Fiber DWR Poplin

 

For a more luxurious feeling dog bed, consider micro fiber fabric. The best fabrics for dog beds can always be paired with other fabrics, for a different top and bottom. This line of microfiber fabric is 100% polyester. It is lightweight, but polyester does have a reputation for being a durable fabric. This fabric has a soft finish.

• Features a durable water repellent coating
• Machine wash cold, tumble dry on low heat
• Can be used for other projects including outdoor apparel items

 

5. 9.3 oz. Canvas Duck Black

 

Canvas duck is usually extremely durable and resilient, but is also easier to wash, making it a good choice for dog beds. This line of canvas duck is 100% cotton and is a medium to heavyweight fabric. Canvas duck is often more lightweight than canvas and usually has a smoother hand, so it is softer and more pliable.

• The fabric can be used for many other projects as well, including window treatments, slipcovers, upholstery, pillows, and more.
• Machine wash with warm water, tumble dry, no bleach
• The fabric is dyed with a unique dying process, so be sure to purchase enough fabric from one batch as color may vary from batch to batch

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Fabric for Dog Bed Buying Guide

Have a pooch you want to pamper? Looking for a more durable dog bed that can survive hard wearing and everyday use? Choosing a fabric is ultimately going to depend on the dog’s needs.

There are many different breeds of dogs. Dogs come in all different sizes and shapes, but there are also other needs to consider.

Older dogs might have different requirements than younger dogs. Even a smaller dog might still require a heavier weight, more durable fabric. Laura Dusch, from Happy Tails Bathing and Grooming in Branford, Connecticut, recommends going with the more durable fabric, even if it’s slightly more expensive.

You’re less likely to have to replace it in the future, saving you money in the long run.

Saving Money

Dog beds can be quite pricey to purchase from the store. Even smaller beds can sometimes be on the expensive side. I have a graveyard of “disapproved” dog beds by Ms Snookums so it’s important to consider the characteristics of your dog’s behavior when choosing a fabric.

Many fabrics can be purchased cheaply and there are tons of tutorials and videos out there that can help you design your own dog bed at home. There are sewing tutorials and no-sew options. Many more durable fabrics like canvas, canvas duck, polyester, nylon, and even micro fiber or minky are budget friendly to purchase so that making a bed at home can help save you money.

Dog Bed Design

The design of dog bed is ultimately going to depend on the dog and the dog’s needs. If you observe your dog, you’ll learn a lot about their sleeping habits and preferences.

Sometimes big dogs like to sleep in small spaces and might want a smaller or even a half covered bed to sleep in. Small dogs can sprawl out and take up more room too and might require a larger bed than their size would indicate.

Making a little tent over the bed can act as a fashionable interior dog house for your canine companion.

After choosing a fabric, the bed design is also going to depend on what filler or stuffing you’d like to use. There are all sorts of different materials that can be used. Design can depend on the filler material, so be sure to keep that in mind, along with the fabric that you are choosing for your design.

Recommended Reading:

• 5 Best Waterproof Fabrics
• 5 Best Fabrics for Dog Hair
• Duck Fabric: History, Properties, Uses, Care, Where to Buy
• 5 Best Canvas Fabric Reviews
• 5 Best Sewing Machines for Canvas and Leather