8 DIY Dog Bed Ideas That Use Materials You Already Have

So, your fur baby needs a new bed. But before you bring up

Amazon and scroll through hundreds of options in order to find the perfect fit, consider creating a DIY dog bed that's great for your pup, the planet, and your wallet.

Assembling a DIY dog bed isn't just a fun and creative project that gives you some much-needed time away from a screen. By using materials you already have at home, you're also reducing your environmental impact.

Store-bought dog beds are often made from synthetic materials and shipped from around the world, contributing to carbon emissions and pollution. Additionally, many are filled with poly-fill, aka polyester fiber.

Polyester is a type of plastic that's derived from petroleum. It's also not

biodegradable, which means it can take hundreds of years to break down in a landfill.

When you create a DIY dog bed, there's no need to buy anything new. Instead, you're able to create a cozy place for your pup to sleep and relax with materials like old blankets and clothing. Aside from giving new life to items that might otherwise be thrown away, using t-shirts and sweatshirts is also a treat for your dog because they smell like their favorite person—you! Dogs find their humans' scent

super comforting, so they're bound to catch some serious Zzzs in their new space.

DIYing a dog bed is clearly a win for many reasons. Ready to get creative? Here are some ideas to get you started.

If you have a side table that doesn't fit in with your current aesthetic, transform it into a cute little dog bed. This one got a serious upgrade with some cane webbing.

Give your vintage suitcase the cutest upgrade by transforming it into a DIY dog bed. Choose to remove the top or not, add a cozy pillow, and find it a spot in your home.

Heads up: Wine barrels make for great

planters—and dog beds. This one takes some handiwork, but after some sawing, hammering, and sanding, you'll have yourself a unique option for your pup.

If you have a sweatshirt you're planning on getting rid of, upcycle it into your pup's new favorite bed. Better yet, you can stuff it with other clothing in your get-rid-of pile, giving it a second life.

Upcycle a big drawer you already have at home or find at a thrift store. Paint it your color of choice, add clothing and blankets for padding, and watch your dog snooze away.

Grab a bunch of old t-shirts and get to quilting. This DIY dog bed takes some sewing, but once you're done, it's sure to be a masterpiece your furry BFF will certainly appreciate.

This DIY dog bed utilizes old pillows that were trash-bound. Turns out, dogs appreciate the cushion—all they need is a cover you can sew together from excess fabric or clothing items.

If you have an end table you're not sure what to do with, flip it over for a charming dog bed. Simply add a pillow and you're good to go.