How to Clean a Sleepypod Pet Carrier

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Empty the carrier and inspect safety hardware

Remove the pet, bedding, toys and any accessory straps. Open the carrier fully and inspect zippers, mesh, stitching, handles, anchor points and restraint hardware before cleaning hides a defect. A torn mesh panel, separated seam or damaged vehicle attachment is a safety problem, not a stain problem. Photograph the way removable straps and bedding are installed before taking them out.

Step 2: Remove loose hair and dry debris

Use a soft brush or low-suction crevice tool across the plush surface, shell seams, mesh edges and zipper tracks. Hold fabric taut so it is not pulled into the nozzle. Shake the carrier outdoors if appropriate. Dry removal matters because water turns hair, litter and fine soil into residue that is harder to lift from the structured shell and hook-and-loop areas.

Step 3: Remove only the washable plush components

Detach the plush liner or bedding exactly as the manual shows, without forcing snaps, hook-and-loop strips or the rim. Check its sewn care label before laundering. Do not remove structural boards, crash-related hardware or panels that are not identified as user-removable. Keep a model-specific sequence because an Air carrier does not separate in exactly the same way as the round mobile pet bed.

Step 4: Machine-wash the removable bedding

Sleepypod identifies the removable plush interior as machine-washable. Use a gentle cycle, cool water and mild detergent unless its label gives a different setting. Secure fasteners or use a mesh bag if the label recommends it. Avoid bleach, fabric softener and strongly scented additives that can leave residue in the pet's enclosed space. Wash heavily soiled bedding separately from household linens.

Step 5: Wipe the exterior in the fabric direction

Lightly dampen a clean cloth and wipe the structured exterior in the direction of the fabric, following Sleepypod's method. Work from cleaner sections toward a stain and blot rather than saturating it. Apply water to the cloth, never pour it onto the shell. Repeated light passes are safer than soaking stiffening material, padding, zipper tape or laminated panels.

Step 6: Spot-clean mesh, floor and zipper tracks

Use mild diluted detergent on a cloth for an approved stubborn spot, test first in a hidden area and lift residue with a second water-dampened cloth. Support mesh from behind while wiping so it does not stretch. Brush zipper tracks dry and wipe them gently; do not apply household oil or silicone unless Sleepypod authorizes it. Keep metal and restraint hardware free of cleaner film.

Step 7: Dry the shell open and bedding separately

Blot the shell, prop it open and air-dry it in a shaded, ventilated room. Dry removable bedding according to its label; avoid high heat unless expressly allowed. Turn thick plush so both sides release moisture. Do not close the lid or reinstall damp bedding, since moisture can remain in lower seams and create odor inside the enclosed carrier.

Step 8: Reassemble and check travel functions

When shell and bedding are completely dry, refit the liner flat and return straps to their photographed locations. Run each zipper through its full path, close all latches and apply a firm hand check to handles and vehicle anchor points. Confirm that no liner edge blocks ventilation or closure. If the carrier was involved in a crash, follow Sleepypod's replacement guidance rather than relying on cleaning and visual inspection alone.