Dog crate mat buying guide
Best dog crate mats in the UK
Choose a dog crate mat by thickness, usable floor fit, surface grip and cleaning method, with UK product examples and sizing advice.
Our recommendations
Mats and low-profile pads to compare
The selected sizes range from 60 × 45cm to 89 × 56cm. Match the exact variant to the clear crate floor; none of these should be chosen from the crate's outer inch label alone.
EMPSIGN reversible crate mat, 74 × 45cm
Best for: A modest crate where a thick bed would take too much height
A 2.8cm reversible mat with a fleece-like side and a cooler canvas side. The selected medium size is approximately 74 × 45cm.
What stands out
- Slim 2.8cm profile
- Two different surfaces
- Whole-mat wash
Keep in mind
- Less cushioning than a thick mattress
- Not waterproof
- May leave floor space uncovered in larger crates
- About 74 × 45 × 2.8cm
- Reversible
- Machine washable
Maximum Pet Products sealed waterproof crate bed
Best for: A small crate needing a sealed, wipe-clean bedding surface
A 60 × 45 × 5cm padded bed with a coated, sealed outer cover and no zip or hook-and-loop closure. Liquids are intended to stay outside the filling.
What stands out
- Sealed outer cover
- Quick wipe-down
- No exposed zip
Keep in mind
- Small 60 × 45cm size
- Not machine washable
- No fabric bed is chew-proof
- 60 × 45 × 5cm
- Coated polyester
- Wipe or hose clean
JOEJOY crate mattress with removable cover
Best for: An 89 × 56cm foam mattress with a cover that can be removed for washing
A low-profile, 8cm foam mattress with a zipped washable cover and a non-slip underside. The selected size is 89 × 56cm.
What stands out
- Removable cover
- Published 89 × 56cm footprint
- Low-profile rectangular shape
Keep in mind
- Foam core needs separate care
- Waterproof claim applies to cover, not every seam
- 8cm depth reduces headroom
- 89 × 56 × 8cm
- Zipped cover
- Foam core
Scroll horizontally to see all columns →
| Mat | Selected size | Cleaning | Best reason to consider it |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMPSIGN reversible | 74 × 45 × 2.8cm | Wash whole mat | Preserves headroom |
| Maximum sealed | 60 × 45 × 5cm | Wipe or hose | Contains surface spills |
| JOEJOY foam | 89 × 56 × 8cm | Remove and wash cover | More cushioning |
When a mat works better than a deep bed
A flat mat is useful when a crate already has limited vertical clearance, when the dog prefers a cooler surface or when laundering an entire bulky mattress is impractical. The key is still comfort. PDSA recommends soft bedding over most of the floor, with room left for bowls; a bare hard tray should not become the default because it is convenient to clean.
Measure the internal floor with the tray fitted. A 36-inch crate can have a much shorter usable floor than its external length. A mat should lie flat without turning up at the corners, jamming the door or leaving the dog balancing half on and half off it. For the measurement method, see internal versus external crate dimensions.
The options in detail
EMPSIGN: slim and reversible
The medium EMPSIGN is approximately 74 × 45 × 2.8cm. Its softer face and canvas face offer two textures without adding much height. The seller lists the whole pad as washable. That simplicity is appealing in a smaller crate, although its modest cushioning will not suit every older or sore dog.
Maximum Pet Products: a sealed small pad
At 60 × 45 × 5cm, the selected small pad has a coated sealed exterior. It is easier to wipe than a plush mat and keeps minor spills from soaking directly into the filling. It is not a machine-washable textile pad; clean the complete surface as directed and let it dry before use.
JOEJOY: a thicker mattress with a cover
The JOEJOY's 89 × 56 × 8cm footprint suits a substantially larger floor. Its removable cover can simplify routine washing, while the foam core still needs checking and drying if liquid reaches it. Eight centimetres of depth also changes how much height the dog has for sitting.
Check the underside and edges
Grip matters when the dog steps in, turns and lies down. A sliding mat can make the door area awkward and expose a slippery tray. Check that the underside does not abrade or stain the tray and that its edging cannot be caught in a latch. Loose foam or torn seams are reasons to remove a mat immediately.
Do not use cords or improvised fasteners through the bars. If a mat repeatedly bunches, the size or shape is wrong, or the dog may be trying to move it. Watch the dog's behaviour before assuming a stronger fixing is needed.
Match care to the likely mess
Machine-washable fabric is pleasant for day-to-day use but may take longer to dry than expected. A coated mat wipes quickly but can feel less soft and may need a separate thin layer if the dog dislikes it. A zipped cover is convenient only if it fully protects the core from normal use and can be removed without fighting the crate frame.
For frequent accidents, read waterproof dog crate mats; for more cushioning, compare dog crate beds. Whichever surface you choose, remove it regularly to inspect the tray and clean hidden moisture before odour or corrosion develops.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is a crate mat better than a dog bed?
A mat can be better when a thick bed would reduce headroom or when a simple flat surface is easier to clean. A dog that needs more cushioning may prefer a suitable mattress, provided the crate remains large enough.
What size mat fits a 36-inch crate?
There is no universal mat size for a 36-inch label. Measure the clear tray floor and door opening, then compare with the exact mat dimensions; frame designs vary between brands.
Should a crate mat be waterproof?
Waterproofing can make accidents easier to manage, but it is not a substitute for comfortable texture, secure fit and prompt cleaning. Check whether the claim applies to the whole bed, only its cover, or just the underside.
Can a thin mat be too thin?
Yes. A dog with pressure points, reduced mobility or a hard crate floor may need more support. Watch where the dog chooses to rest and ask a vet for advice about pain or joint disease.
How do I stop a mat slipping in a crate?
Choose a correctly sized flat mat with a grippy underside, keep the tray dry and check that the dog cannot bunch or drag it. Avoid loose ties or clips that could snag.
Sources
- PDSA — crate training and bedding — adequate usable space, soft bedding and water
- RSPCA — how to crate train a puppy — comfortable setup and gradual introduction
- Product specification pages linked in the guide