Tips for Washing Your Dog’s Toys
Playing with toys is a favorite pastime for your canine companions. So, it is essential to consider the wear and tear their toys receive. Read below to learn tips for washing your dog’s toys!
Importance of Washing Toys
Our companion’s toys receive lots of love. They are taken throughout the house, around the yard, on walks, and to the park. So, they get covered in drool, dirt, and anything else they encounter on your adventures. As a result, bacteria, mildew, and mold can grow if not treated properly. Not only is this a health concern to your canine, but to you and your family, too!
Frequency Of Cleaning Toys
Ideally, cleaning your pup’s toys once a week is the best practice. However, at least once a month is more reasonable for our busy schedules. Keep in mind that you should disinfect well-loved toys daily. This is especially true if your dog is on a raw food diet because of bacteria, such as Salmonella, that can harm you.
Cleaning Stuffed Toys and Ropes
Stuffed toys can collect dirt, bacteria, and dust mites. So, follow the steps to clean and disinfect your four-legged friend’s toys.
Pre-Treat Dirt and Stains
Scrub a baking soda and vinegar mixture with a sponge or toothbrush to treat dirt and stains. Then, let it soak into the toy for 10-15 minutes. Finally, rinse and then continue the washing process.
Use Pet-Safe or Natural Detergent
Safe detergents do not contain ingredients such as
- bleach
- chlorine
- sodium lauryl ether sulfate
- phthalates
- artificial dyes
However, safe and natural ingredients include:
- soap nuts
- baking soda
- vinegar
Some pet-safe detergents include:
Wash in a Mesh Laundry Bag On a Warm Setting
Place the toys in a laundry bag to protect them and contain any missing pieces. Then, use the warm setting (at least 140 F) to kill bacteria and dust mites. Once the wash cycle is done, wring out the excess water and let it air dry thoroughly to prevent mold. Or, you can place the toys in a dryer in a low-heat setting. However, stick with air drying if the toy has any plastic pieces. Lastly, inspect the toys to ensure they remain intact before returning them to your canine.
Or, you can soak them in warm water for 5 minutes, wring them out, microwave for 1 minute to kill bacteria, then let air dry.
Cleaning Rubber, Plastic, and Nylon Toys
Read Product label
Reading the care instructions to clean your pal’s toys is essential. Likely, rubber and plastic toys can not be placed with the washing machine because they can warp or break.
Tape Holes/Openings To Prevent Residue Buildup
If the toy has any openings, seal them off to prevent detergent from getting inside. Though the detergent may be pet-safe, you don’t want your furry friend ingesting anything unnecessary.
Use Pet-Safe Cleaning Products
First, remove any dirt, debris, or stains. Then, soak the toys for at least 30 minutes in 5% vinegar and 95% warm water. Use a toothbrush to scrub nooks and crannies to remove all dirt, debris, and bacteria.
Rinse Thoroughly and Dry Completely
After washing, rinse the toys to remove any soap residue. Then, dry the toys completely.