Tips for Keeping Your Dogs Bowls Clean

Do you remember the last time you cleaned your dogs bowl? Even long time dog owners sometimes forget or don’t realize that their dogs bowl needs to be regularly cleaned.

Dirty dog dishes can be hazardous to your pooch. The water and food bowls can become breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. We’re going to guide you through cleaning your dog bowl and answer some questions you may have.

Recommended Equipment

Dog Safe Dish Soaps

Make sure your dish soap is a safe option for your pet. If they have allergies, double check the soap or detergent list. Watch out for chemicals and fragrances, such as peppermint or tea tree oil.

Sponges

Always use sponges specifically for your dogs bowl. Maybe buy different colored sponges or rags to distinguish which is for your pup and which is for humans. Make sure to always clean human dishes and dog dishes separately as well.

Disinfectant

Experts recommend disinfecting your dogs bowl once a week to kill germs left behind from cleaning. Choose a disinfectant suitable for the material of the dish and follow the bottles directions.

Step-By-Step Cleaning

Step 1: Let It Soak

Fill with hot water and dog friendly soap, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to loosen up everything. If stubborn spots won’t come off, try a white vinegar and baking soda mixture.

Step 2: Hand Wash or Use the Dishwasher

If you’re hand washing, use your dedicated sponge, hot water, soap, and elbow grease to thoroughly scrub.

If you’re throwing in the dishwasher, check whether the items are dishwasher safe first. Use a dog friendly detergent, and start a separate load. Choose “sanitize” or “disinfect” if you have the option.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry Thoroughly

Wash soapy dishes with more hot water and thoroughly dry with a clean towel reserved for your dog.

Step 4: Repeat Daily (or More Often)

Your dog is should eat from clean dishes each meal, so plan on cleaning them at minimum morning and night. If you feed them dry food, you may be able to clean them less often.

Step 5: Disinfect Weekly (or More Often)

The final step is to disinfect their dishes at least once a week. Just make sure it is compatible with the type of dog bowl you use.

Remember, your dog is apart of your family and should be able to eat from fresh dishes the same way we humans do. Wash, disinfect, repeat.