How to Wash Dog Toys

Dog toys find their way to some of the dirtiest places. In addition to accumulating matter on your floor and from your dog’s mouth, they may pick up dirt and germs in the backyard or even the dog park.

If you are like many pet owners, you don’t think about washing dog toys until they develop a funky smell or have visible growth. However, regularly cleaning pet toys before they get undeniably dirty comes with significant benefits. So, how do you wash dog toys?

Why Cleaning Dog Toys Matters

Whether your dog has rubber toys, plush toys or other types of playthings, they need to be washed. The dirt and buildup on them can make your pets sick. In addition, as these filthy toys make their way around your house, they spread germs. When you and your family members pick up the toys, the dirt and germs spread to your hands. From there, the grime can spread to counters, furniture, light switches and more.

The smell of dirty dog toys can also be repulsive. This smell is typically an indicator that something undesirable is growing on them. You might not see bacteria or mold on them yet, but the smell indicates that growth is present. Mold can damage some toys as well. So, keeping your dog’s toys clean will help you get more life out of them.

How Often Should You Wash Dog Toys?

All dog toys should be washed at least every two to three weeks. However, some toys have small crevices where dirt and grime hide. Older toys may have deep gnaw marks that also gather germs and grit. Wash these toys more frequently. Consider replacing severely chewed toys as they may be impossible to completely clean.

Guide to Washing Each Type of Toy

While all toys need to be washed regularly, the recommended cleaning methods vary. Some toys can be machine-washed while others should be hand-washed to avoid damage. Regardless of the cleaning method used, only use pet-safe cleaning products. Use this guide to safely and effectively wash different types of dog toys.

Plush and Fabric Toys

Many plush and fabric toys can be washed in the laundry machine using a gentle detergent. Dry them using a low heat setting. However, refer to the toy label before doing so.

An alternative is to wash them by hand. To do so, mix warm water with vinegar in a bowl. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the toy surface with the water and vinegar. Then, use a second clean cloth with fresh water to wipe away the vinegar. Toss these toys in the dryer, or place them outside in direct sunlight to dry.

Rubber and Plastic Toys

In many cases, rubber and hard plastic toys can be washed in your dishwasher. Place these toys in the top rack. The bottom rack can get excessively hot and cause damage.

Do not wash dirty dishes with the dog toys. Remove the toys before the dry cycle runs. After pulling the clean dog toys out of the dishwasher, give them time to air dry.

Rope Toys

The thick, tightly wrapped fibers in rope toys collect and cling to dirt. These toys ideally should be washed weekly. Avoid washing these toys in the washing machine as loose strings are problematic.

These strings can damage your machine as well as the toys. Instead, place them in a bowl with water and vinegar for 30 minutes. Then, rinse them thoroughly. Dry them outside in sunlight.

Treat-Dispensing or Interactive Toys

For hard items that cannot go in the dishwasher, disassemble them, if possible.Then, fill a large bowl with warm water and distilled white vinegar. After soaking the toys in the cleaning solution for 15 minutes, use a toothbrush or other small brush to scrub them clean. Rinse them thoroughly, and air dry before re-assembling them.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Dog Toys

While cleaning dog toys is simple, it is not foolproof. What should you avoid when cleaning dog toys?

• Don’t use harsh soaps and detergents.
• Avoid chemical cleaning products that are harmful to animals.
• Don’t clean heavily damaged or chewed toys. Instead, replace them.
• Don’t clean items that are moldy or smelly. These should be thrown out.
• Don’t forget to read the toy’s label for cleaning instructions.
• Don’t give the toys back to your pet until they are completely dry.

Tips for Maintaining Clean Dog Toys

Many dogs have special toys that they can’t stand being apart from for several hours or longer. However, between washing and drying the toys, keeping the toys away from your dog that long every few weeks is essential.

To avoid pet distress, consider washing only a few toys at a time. For must-have toys, invest in a backup. Pull out the backup when the main toy is being washed.

FAQs

Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash my dog’s toys?

The best laundry detergent to use to wash dog toys is a gentle one. If possible, choose a natural detergent. Avoid using bleach or other harmful chemicals on dog toys.

Can I put dog toys in the dishwasher or washing machine?

Some toys can be safely washed in the dishwasher and washing machine. Plastic and hard rubber toys are suitable for the dishwasher in most cases. Fluffy and plush dog toys can usually be machine-washed. Always read the label before washing dog toys.

What should I do if a toy has mold or a strong odor after washing?

A strong odor indicates that the toy is riddled with mold or bacteria. If a smell lingers after washing it, it should be replaced.

Like your dog’s toys, many other areas of the home can be a breeding ground for bacteria, mold and more. Properly cleaning your home from top to bottom is essential for the health and well-being of everyone in your home.

Is your home cleaned as often and thoroughly as you need? Our housekeepers at Cleanzen Boston are eager to give you the helping hand you need. To learn more about our many cleaning services, contact Cleanzen today.