VANKEAN Dog Bed Soft Crate Pad Mat Review

Looking for a comfy, washable dog bed that works year-round and fits inside a crate or travels well in your car?

This image is property of Amazon.com.

First impressions

When you first get the VANKEAN Dog Bed Soft Crate Pad Mat Reversible Cool & Warm, you’ll notice how compact it arrives and how quickly it regains shape. The packaging is vacuum-sealed to save space, so you’ll need to give it time to expand before use.

Unboxing and packaging

The bed comes vacuum-packed, which keeps shipping efficient and protects the foam and cover during transit. You should open it carefully, then let it sit flat so the egg-crate foam can return to its intended thickness.

Inflation and initial setup

Once unsealed, the pad may take up to 48–72 hours to fully decompress, though you’ll often see most recovery within the first 24 hours. You can pat and flatten the pad gently to speed the process, but patience helps the foam regain its full contour and support.

What this bed promises

VANKEAN markets this crate pad as reversible for year-round comfort, machine-washable, and featuring a 3-inch egg-crate orthopedic foam core. The product aims to combine cooling and warming surfaces, water resistance, and easy maintenance for small-to-medium dogs up to roughly 25 lbs.

Key features at a glance

You’ll find a cool canvas face and a soft fleece face, a 3-inch egg-crate foam interior, and a zippered removable cover for washing. The pad measures 23″ x 18″ x 3″, so it’s sized for crates and carriers that commonly serve small dogs and many medium-breed pups.

Who this is made for

If you own a small dog or have a medium dog that sleeps curled up, this bed is targeted to give orthopedic support without taking up much space. The reversible surfaces mean you can change which side your pet prefers based on season or temperature.

Comfort and support

Comfort is the primary selling point, and the 3-inch egg-crate foam is designed to distribute pressure and reduce stress on joints and muscles. You’ll likely notice your dog settling faster if they appreciate a softer, contoured sleep surface.

Egg-crate foam performance

Egg-crate foam has peaks and valleys that help with pressure relief and airflow. For dogs with mild joint discomfort or those who like slightly cradled surfaces, this foam can be more comfortable than a thin flat pad.

Orthopedic benefits for pets

The raised and recessed pattern of egg-crate foam helps support bony prominences while cushioning soft tissues, which can be helpful for older dogs or those with arthritis. Keep in mind that for severe orthopedic issues you may still want a denser memory foam mattress specifically labeled as therapeutic.

This image is property of Amazon.com.

Design and materials

The reversible design pairs a dry, breathable canvas side for staying cool with an ultra-soft fleece side for warmth. The fabric choices make sense for year-round use and give you options depending on your dog’s preferences.

Reversible Cool & Warm surfaces

You can flip the pad so your dog sleeps on either a cooling canvas surface or a plush fleece. This flexibility makes it straightforward to adapt to seasonal changes without buying multiple beds.

Fabric and stitching quality

The cover is stitched with reinforced seams and includes a zipper for removal. You’ll appreciate the durable feel of the canvas and the plushness of the fleece, though zipper durability matters long-term—inspect it periodically if your dog is a heavy user.

Water-resistant properties

The pad advertises water resistance, meaning brief spills and light accidents won’t saturate the foam immediately. You should still blot any liquid quickly and launder the cover as recommended to avoid lingering odors or saturation over time.

Size and fit for crates and travel

At 23″ x 18″ x 3″, this bed fits many standard small crate sizes and serves well as a portable travel cushion. You’ll find it convenient to move between a home crate, a travel carrier, or your car for trips.

Crate compatibility

Measure your crate interior before buying so you know the pad will sit flat without bunching. This pad suits smaller crates and some medium crates when used by compact dogs or puppies.

Travel and car use

If you travel with your dog, this pad is lightweight and portable, making it practical for vehicle use or temporary hotel setups. It helps create a familiar surface for your dog when you’re on the road.

Cleaning and maintenance

The removable zippered cover is machine washable and dryer-friendly, which makes hygiene easier for you. Regular washing will help keep odors down and preserve the fabric’s look and feel.

How to wash safely

Remove the cover and follow the care label for machine wash settings—generally gentle cycle with mild detergent. Tumble dry on low or air-dry to preserve fabric softness and the zipper life.

Foam care and drying

Avoid putting the foam insert into a machine dryer; instead let it air out fully if it becomes damp. If the foam gets wet, press out excess moisture gently and let it dry flat in a warm, ventilated area to prevent mold.

This image is property of Amazon.com.

Durability and wear

While the bed is built for everyday use, no pet bed is indestructible—especially if you have a chewer or an anxious dog who scratches and claws. The materials are durable for normal sleeping behavior but may show wear under rough handling.

Zipper and seam longevity

The zipper and seams should hold up under typical use, but give the zipper a quick check every few washes. If your dog is an energetic digger, consider extra supervision or a chew-resistant alternative.

Foam resilience over time

Egg-crate foam can compress over months to years depending on use, weight, and frequency of washing. Expect gradual flattening with heavy use; rotating or flipping the pad can help even out wear.

Practical testing scenarios

You want to know how the bed performs day-to-day—so consider testing in a crate, on the floor, and inside a travel carrier. Observing how your dog settles and whether any odors or displacements occur is helpful.

In-crate testing

Place the pad inside the crate for several nights and watch how your dog positions themselves. Dogs that prefer cradled support often nestle into the egg-crate valleys, while those that like a firmer surface may prefer the canvas side.

Floor and couch testing

Use the pad on a hard floor or on a couch to see how it insulates against cold surfaces. The fleece side helps block chill, while the canvas keeps a breathable surface for warmer spots.

Fit for different dog types

Although the listed maximum weight suggests up to 25 lbs, breed and sleeping style impact suitability. You should assess your dog’s sleeping posture—whether stretched out or curled up—before choosing.

Small dogs and puppies

Small dogs and puppies will find the pad cozy and supportive, with enough cushion to protect joints during play and naps. The compact size suits typical small-dog crates and carriers.

Medium dogs considerations

For many medium dogs that curl up, the pad may still be comfortable, but larger breeds or dogs that sprawl will need a bigger option. If your medium dog frequently stretches out, measure their stretched length and compare it to the pad size.

Older or arthritic dogs

Older dogs can appreciate the pressure-relieving shape, but if your dog has advanced arthritis you may prefer a thicker, high-density memory foam mattress with proven therapeutic credentials. Still, this pad is a solid interim or travel option for extra comfort.

This image is property of Amazon.com.

Pros and cons

You’ll get a reversible, washable pad with a supportive egg-crate foam core that’s great for small dogs and crate use. On the downside, the size limits heavier dogs, and the foam may compress over extended heavy use.

Pros summary

You’ll like the dual-surface design, easy-care removable cover, and light but adequate orthopedic support for many small-to-medium pets. The water-resistant feature and travel-friendly size are added conveniences.

Cons summary

You should be aware that the foam is not a replacement for medical-grade orthopedic mattresses for severe joint issues. Also, if your dog chews or claws frequently, the cover may sustain damage over time.

Price and value

When you consider comfort, materials, and washability, this pad offers good value for most pet owners seeking a versatile crate bed. You’ll save space and money compared with buying separate seasonal beds because the reversible design serves both warm and cool needs.

Is it worth it?

If your dog fits the size range and you prioritize easy cleaning and reversible comfort, this bed is a practical purchase. If your priorities are heavy-duty chew resistance or large-dog high-density orthopedic support, you may need a different product.

Comparison with competitors

Compared to basic flat crate pads, the egg-crate foam and reversible covering make this model stand out. High-end orthopedic beds use memory foam and thicker cores, but they often cost significantly more and are bulkier to transport.

Detailed specifications table

Below is a breakdown of the key specifications and what they mean for your use.

Feature	Specification	What it means for you
Dimensions	23″ L x 18″ W x 3″ H	Fits most small crates and carriers; measure your crate first
Weight capacity	Up to ~25 lbs	Ideal for small dogs and many small-medium breeds that curl up
Foam type	3-inch egg-crate foam	Provides pressure relief and airflow; not as dense as medical memory foam
Cover	Reversible (canvas + fleece)	One side cool and breathable, one side warm and plush
Water resistance	Yes (surface)	Resists light spills; soak-through possible if not cleaned promptly
Cleaning	Zippered removable cover; machine washable	Easy to keep fresh; follow care instructions for longevity
Packaging	Vacuum packed	Saves shipping space; allow 24–72 hours to decompress
Colors	Gray/Dark Blue	Neutral tones that match many interiors
Use cases	Crate bed, travel pad, kennel, car	Versatile and portable for many situations

This image is property of Amazon.com.

How to choose the right size and setup

You’ll want to measure your crate and your dog before committing to this pad. Measure the crate interior length and width, then consider how your dog sleeps—curled, sprawled, or tucked.

Measuring your dog and crate

Measure your dog from nose to tail while stretched and add a few inches for comfort if they like to sprawl. Measure the crate interior floor and make sure the pad will sit flat without bunching in corners.

Placement tips in the crate

Place the pad so it covers the crate floor evenly and leaves a small gap at the back if the crate has ventilation or wires. If your dog likes to rest their head on elevated surfaces, consider adding a small bolster or folded towel behind the pad.

Transitioning your pet to a new bed

Introducing a new bed can require patience, especially with anxious or older dogs. You should use your dog’s favorite blanket or a treat to encourage investigating and positive association.

Encouragement and positive reinforcement

Place treats, toys, or an item with your scent on the pad to entice your dog. Praise and short reward sessions each time they lie on the new bed will reinforce acceptance.

Managing reluctance or avoidance

If your dog avoids the new pad, put the old bed on top of it for a few nights so they can acclimate to the new feel gradually. Gradual removal of the old bed or a training cue like “bed” can help establish the new pad as their spot.

Real user experiences and practical notes

Customers often appreciate the quick cleaning and reversible comfort, and many report that their small dogs adapted quickly. Some users note that the foam took a couple of days to fully expand and that repeated machine washing holds up well when done on gentle cycles.

Common praise

You’ll likely see comments about how the pad is soft, lightweight, and convenient for crate training and travel. Owners of older dogs frequently mention improved nap comfort thanks to the contoured foam.

Common complaints

Be aware of feedback about the pad compressing over time with heavy use and occasional zipper issues after frequent washing. If your dog chews, you may encounter fabric pulls or holes despite the water-resistant surface.

Safety considerations

You should always monitor your dog’s first interactions with any new bed, especially puppies who may chew. Remove any loose threads or parts that could be swallowed and inspect regularly for damage.

Materials and non-toxicity

The product does not advertise toxic components; however, as with any pet product, check for odors or reactions after first use. If you notice unusual skin irritation, consult a vet and discontinue use until resolved.

Avoiding overheating or cold exposure

When using the fleece side, watch for signs of overheating in hot climates or direct sun exposure. Conversely, the canvas side is more breathable and helps prevent excessive warmth on hot days.

Troubleshooting common issues

You may need to address compression, stains, or zipper problems during the product’s life. Simple steps can extend the pad’s usability.

Foam still compressed after unpacking

If the foam remains partially compressed after 48–72 hours, gently massage and pat it to encourage expansion and let it sit flat in a warm room. Extreme compression rarely reverses completely, but massaging can help redistribute foam cells.

Cover shrinkage or zipper snag

If the cover shrinks after washing or the zipper snags, re-check washing settings and consider air drying to reduce shrinkage. For a stuck zipper, apply a small dab of wax (like a candle) to lubricate before attempting to move it again.

Warranty and after-sales service

The product listing suggests contacting the seller for after-sales questions and highlights that no pet bed is indestructible. You should keep your order information handy in case you need a replacement or have warranty inquiries.

How to contact for issues

Use the vendor’s contact channels listed on the purchase page for cleaning tips, replacements, or to report defects. Providing photos and a clear description will speed up resolution.

Returns and replacement expectations

If the pad arrives damaged or fails to decompress adequately, check the return window quickly and follow the seller’s return policy. Many sellers offer reasonable customer service for initial defects or shipping damage.

Comparison scenarios

To help you decide, here are a few scenarios showing whether this pad is a good match for your needs.

You have a small apartment dog

This pad is ideal if you live in a smaller space and need a compact, portable bed. You’ll appreciate the reversible options for seasonal shifts and the easy-clean cover.

You have a larger or very active dog

This pad may not suit large dogs that stretch out fully or heavy chewers who will rapidly damage fabric. For such dogs, choose a larger, denser orthopedic mattress with chew-resistant materials.

You travel frequently with your dog

Because it’s lightweight and compresses for transport, this pad works well for travel setups. You’ll want to allow expansion time at each destination, but it’s far more portable than large foam beds.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

These are common points you might wonder about before buying or after receiving the bed.

How long until the bed is ready after unboxing?

Most of the expansion happens within 24 hours, but allow up to 48–72 hours for complete recovery. Patting the foam gently and laying it flat accelerates the process.

Can the foam be washed?

Avoid machine-washing the foam insert; remove the cover and machine-wash that only. If the foam needs spot cleaning, use mild soap, blot thoroughly, and let it air dry completely.

Is the pad suitable for outdoor use?

The pad is designed primarily for indoor crate and travel use; although somewhat water-resistant, frequent outdoor exposure may damage the cover and foam faster.

Additional tips for long life

You’ll want the pad to last as long as possible, so a few small habits will help preserve shape and fabric.

Rotate and flip periodically

Rotate the pad and flip sides occasionally to even out wear and compressive stress. This simple step helps extend foam life and keeps the surface feeling fresh.

Use a waterproof liner for heavy-shedding or incontinent pets

If your pet has incontinence or frequent accidents, a thin waterproof liner between the foam and cover gives added protection. It keeps the foam clean and extends the cover’s life.

Final verdict

If you want a portable, reversible, and washable crate pad for a small to medium dog, the VANKEAN Dog Bed provides practical comfort and reasonable orthopedic support. You’ll like its flexibility, and it’s a solid value for crate use, travel, and everyday naps.

Should you buy it?

Buy it if you need a reliable, space-saving crate pad with seasonal flexibility and easy cleaning. Consider a more heavy-duty orthopedic or larger-sized bed if your dog is bigger, chews, or needs medical-grade support.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.