A crate is a den, and the mat inside it makes the difference between a place your dog seeks out and one they tolerate. The best crate mats are comfortable, easy to wash and sized properly for the crate.
We have compared six crate mats currently available at Amazon UK, from a budget fleece pad to orthopaedic foam.
Quick Comparison Table
Product | Best For | Price Range | Rating |
Vetbed Original | Warmth and moisture-wicking | £20-£25 | 4.6/5 |
Ellie-Bo Dog Bed for 30-inch Crate | Matching standard wire crates | £21-£25 | 4.4/5 |
Waterproof Dog Crate Bed (88 x 55cm) | Dribbly sleepers, damp coats | £22-£25 | 4.6/5 |
Scruffs Thermal Dog Mat (XS) | Cold rooms, older dogs | £15-£17 | 4.7/5 |
Bedsure Fleece Foam Dog Mat | Budget starter mat | £16-£18 | 4.5/5 |
KSIIA Orthopedic Dog Bed | Senior dogs, heavier breeds | £16-£18 | 4.6/5 |
Individual Products
Vetbed Original
Best for: warmth and moisture-wicking for puppies and senior dogs
Vetbed is the classic crate liner: a dense polyester pile on a woven backing that wicks moisture away from the dog. It is warm, washable and quick to dry.
The listing costs around £22 and averages 4.6 out of 5 across more than 4,300 ratings.
What we like:
- Wicks moisture away
- Warm and machine washable
- Very popular with breeders and vets
Worth knowing:
- Can be chewed by determined puppies
- Not waterproof
Specifications:
- Type: vet bedding
- Material: polyester pile
- Care: machine washable
- Use: crates and beds
Ellie-Bo Dog Bed for 30-inch Crate
Best for: a padded mat sized to standard wire crates
Ellie-Bo makes crate beds sized for standard UK crates. The medium fits a 30-inch crate and has a removable, washable cover.
It costs around £23 and averages 4.4 out of 5 across more than 2,700 ratings.
What we like:
- Sized for standard crates
- Removable washable cover
- Well reviewed
Worth knowing:
- Check your crate size before buying
- Can be chewed by puppies
Specifications:
- Type: crate cushion
- Size: for 30-inch crates
- Cover: washable
- Brand: Ellie-Bo
![Ellie-Bo Medium Dog Bed for 30-inch Dog Cage/Crate - Blue Corduroy/Grey FauxFur Blue Corduroy/Grey Faux Fur Top M - [L71 x W48 x H10cm]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61yAVz9OnQL.jpg)
Waterproof Dog Crate Bed (88 x 55cm)
Best for: dribbly sleepers and damp coats
A waterproof mat protects the cushion from accidents and damp coats, and wipes clean. This orthopaedic-style mattress fits a large crate.
It costs around £23 and averages 4.6 out of 5 across more than 800 ratings.
What we like:
- Waterproof and wipe-clean
- Orthopaedic-style foam
- Fits a large crate
Worth knowing:
- Check the size against your crate
- Not chew-proof
Specifications:
- Type: waterproof crate mattress
- Size: 88 x 55 x 7cm
- Feature: waterproof
- Use: large crates
Scruffs Thermal Dog Mat (XS)
Best for: cold rooms and older dogs
A thermal mat reflects body heat back to the dog, which suits cold rooms and older dogs. It has a fleece top and a non-slip base.
It costs around £16 and averages 4.7 out of 5 across 26 ratings.
What we like:
- Reflects body heat
- Non-slip base
- Machine washable
Worth knowing:
- Small size shown here
- Few ratings so far
Specifications:
- Type: thermal mat
- Size: 60 x 45cm
- Base: non-slip
- Brand: Scruffs
Bedsure Washable Fleece Foam Dog Mat (74 x 46cm)
Best for: budget starter bedding
A soft fleece mat with foam padding is a low-cost way to make a crate comfortable. This one is machine washable.
It costs around £17 and averages 4.5 out of 5 across 1,200 ratings.
What we like:
- Low price
- Foam padding
- Machine washable
Worth knowing:
- Not chew-proof
- Fleece collects hair
Specifications:
- Type: fleece foam mat
- Size: 74 x 46cm
- Care: machine washable
- Brand: Bedsure
KSIIA Orthopedic Dog Bed (88 x 55 x 7cm)
Best for: senior dogs and heavier breeds
An orthopaedic mat gives extra joint support for older or heavier dogs, and this one has a washable cover.
It costs around £17 and averages 4.6 out of 5 across more than 4,000 ratings.
What we like:
- Orthopaedic foam for joint support
- Washable cover
- Very well reviewed
Worth knowing:
- Check the size against your crate
- Not chew-proof
Specifications:
- Type: orthopaedic mat
- Size: 88 x 55 x 7cm
- Cover: washable
- Brand: KSIIA
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Crate Mat
What to look for
Check the fit, washability and padding. If your dog is a chewer, choose a sturdy mat or use a thin liner.
Crate mat types explained
Vet bedding wicks moisture. Padded cushions add comfort. Waterproof mats protect against accidents. Thermal and orthopaedic mats add warmth or support.
Size guide by breed weight
Measure the internal floor of your crate. Small dogs suit 24-inch crates, medium dogs 30-36 inch, and large dogs 42-48 inch.
Spending tiers
Budget mats cost under £25, mid-range £25-£60 and premium orthopaedic £60 and above.
Frequently asked questions
Can I machine wash a crate mat?
Most can, on a low temperature. Check the label.
What if my dog chews the mat?
Use a thin, tough liner such as Vetbed, or remove the mat until the chewing stops.
Do I need a waterproof mat?
For puppies, drooly dogs and dogs prone to accidents, yes.
Should I use a round or rectangular bed?
A rectangular mat that fills the crate floor is best.
How do I get my dog to use the mat?
Reward your dog for lying on it, and add a familiar blanket.
Conclusion
Vetbed Original is our top pick for most owners, and the waterproof crate bed is best for dribbly sleepers.
The KSIIA orthopaedic mat suits senior dogs, and the Bedsure mat is a solid budget choice.
