Do your dog’s toys look filthy and potentially carry harmful germs?
According to Consumer Affairs, the NSF International (National Sanitation Foundation) study found that pet toys are one of the top ten germiest spots in your home.
Don’t worry, as a dog lover myself, I have the solution to all your dirty toy problems!
In this article, we’ll explore how to clean your dog’s toys without creating a mess. So put on your rubber gloves, and let’s get started!
Understanding Different Types of Dog Toys
Before we get into the cleaning methods, let’s take a moment to understand the different types of dog toys.
Each type of toy requires different cleaning methods because of their varying materials.
- Plush dog toys are made of soft and fuzzy fabric material, often filled with stuffing or squeakers.
- Squeaker dog toys are a type of plush dog toy that contains a squeaker inside, producing a noise when squeezed or played with.
- Rope dog toys are made of knotted ropes, some may have added elements like balls or rubber toys attached.
- Rubber dog toys are made of durable and flexible rubber material, some may have textures or ridges for dental health.
- Bone dog toys can be made of a variety of materials such as rubber, nylon, or natural materials like rawhide, bones or antlers.
Methods for Cleaning Dog Toys
There are several ways to clean your dog’s toys, but the most common methods are
- washing by hand
- using a washing machine
- using a dishwasher
Please note, It’s generally not recommended to wash pet toys in a dishwasher because the high temperatures and harsh detergents can damage the toys or cause them to deteriorate more quickly.
Additionally, some toys may not be dishwasher-safe and could potentially pose a safety hazard if they break apart or melt in the dishwasher. If the manufacturer hasn’t stated that the toy is dishwasher safe, don’t put it in the dishwasher.
Before we proceed, we need to know why:
a) we use a mixture of Vinegar and Baking Soda for cleaning
Vinegar and baking soda are often used together as cleaning agents due to their complementary properties. Baking soda is a mildly abrasive substance that can help to scrub away dirt and grime, while vinegar is acidic and can help to break down and dissolve certain types of stains and buildup.
When the two substances are combined, a chemical reaction occurs that creates carbon dioxide bubbles, which can help to further loosen and remove dirt, debris and loosen up gunky messes. This makes the combination of vinegar and baking soda a popular and effective cleaning solution for a wide range of surfaces and materials. Check out how its done on the link here
b) we use a mixture of Vinegar and water for cleaning
A mixture of vinegar and water is a more diluted and gentle solution for cleaning. This mixture is effective at removing surface-level dirt and grime, and can also be used as a disinfectant due to the acetic acid in the vinegar.
A mixture of vinegar and baking soda is more powerful and best for tough cleaning jobs, while a mixture of vinegar and water is gentler and better for general cleaning and disinfecting.
c) why use natural detergent which is scent free when washing dog toys
Using a natural, scent-free detergent to wash dog toys is recommended because it reduces the risk of skin irritation and respiratory issues caused by exposure to harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances.
Additionally, many dogs are sensitive to strong scents or fragrances, and using a scented detergent can potentially cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, or other health issues in some dogs.
Dog toys can be classified into two types:
a) Toys that can withstand heat – meaning they are made without plastic or rubber, such as plush toys and rope toys.
b) Toys that cannot withstand heat – meaning they are made with plastic, nylon, or rubber.
Tips for Washing Different Types of Dog Toys
Different types of dog toys require different cleaning methods.
In this section, we’ll provide tips for washing different types of dog toys, so you can keep your pup’s toy collection clean and safe.
I. How to clean Plush dog toys and rope toys
a) Plush dog toys are a popular choice among dogs, but they can quickly become dirty and in need of cleaning. Here are the steps to clean them:
- First, use a toothbrush and a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to remove any loose dirt or debris from the plush toy.
- Place the toy in a pillowcase or mesh laundry bag to protect it during the wash cycle.
- Use a gentle natural laundry detergent that has no scent, and set your washing machine to a delicate cycle with cool water.
- During the rinse cycle, add white vinegar instead of fabric softener to disinfect the toy.
- Once the wash cycle is complete, you can lay the toy out in the sun to dry, but keep in mind that it may take a long time to dry completely. Alternatively, place the toy in a laundry mesh bag and toss it in the dryer on a low or air dry setting until dry.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog’s plush toys are clean and safe for them to play with.
b) Dog rope toys like rope balls are a great way to keep your dog entertained, but they can also accumulate dirt and bacteria over time.
- Remove any visible dirt or debris from the rope toys.
- Soak the rope toys in water for 5 minutes, then remove any excess water.
- If the rope toy does not contain plastic or metal, you can disinfect it by microwaving it on high for 1 minute.
- After microwaving, place the rope toy in a laundry mesh bag.
- Wash the rope toy in the washing machine with detergent and hot water, using the same steps as for cleaning plush dog toys.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your dog’s rope toys are clean and safe for them to play with.
II. How to clean rubber, nylon, plastic dog toys and dog bone toys
c) Rubber dog toys, such as Kong or rubber balls, are durable and perfect for chewers, but they can quickly accumulate grime and dirt. Here are the steps to effectively clean them:
- Rinse the toy with warm water if it is not too dirty, or soak it in warm water mixed with vinegar (one part vinegar to two parts water) in a sink for 15-20 minutes if it is very dirty.
- Move the toys around every few minutes during the soaking process to ensure that all sides are cleaned.
- Use a toothbrush or scrub brush to clean all the crevices and ridges thoroughly. For particularly dirty toys, you can use unscented Dawn® soap.
- Rinse the toy with warm water.
- Leave the toy to air dry for around an hour outside.
By following these steps, you can keep your rubber dog toys clean and safe for your furry friend to play with.
d) Dog bone toys are popular among dogs for chewing and playing, but they can also accumulate dirt and bacteria over time. Here are the steps to clean dog bone toys effectively:
- Remove any loose dirt or debris from the surface of the toy by brushing it with a toothbrush or wiping it with a damp cloth.
- Soak the toy in warm water and vinegar solution (one part vinegar to two parts water) for 15-20 minutes. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can help to kill bacteria and neutralize odors.
- Use a brush or sponge to scrub the toy thoroughly, paying special attention to any hard-to-reach crevices or grooves.
- Rinse the toy with warm water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
- Dry the toy with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before giving it back to your dog.
It’s important to note that some dog bone toys are not meant to be submerged in water, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before proceeding with these steps.
By regularly cleaning your dog’s bone toys, you can help to prevent the buildup of bacteria and keep them safe and healthy for your furry friend to play with.
Why To Disinfect Dog Toys
Cleaning your dog’s toys removes dirt and grime, but it may not eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses. Disinfecting is necessary to kill pathogens that can cause illnesses.
Dogs put toys in their mouths, so if the toys are not disinfected, they can spread the pathogens to their mouth and other parts of their body.
Disinfecting also prevents the spread of germs to other pets or family members.
Regular disinfection keeps your dog safe and healthy, and is an important part of responsible pet ownership.
How to Disinfect Dog Toys
Dogs love their toys, and it’s important to keep them clean and safe for your furry friend to play with. One way to ensure that your dog’s toys are free from germs and bacteria is by disinfecting them regularly. Here are some tips on how to disinfect your dog’s toys:
Check the label: Before disinfecting your dog’s toys, it’s important to read the label to make sure that it’s safe to use certain cleaning products on them. Some toys may be sensitive to certain chemicals, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Clean the toys: Before disinfecting, it’s important to clean the toys thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or debris. Use warm water and mild soap to scrub the toys, paying close attention to any crevices or hard-to-reach areas.
Disinfect the toys: Once the toys are clean, it’s time to disinfect them. You can use a variety of products for disinfecting, such as vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or a mixture of water and bleach (provided it is diluted and the toys are fully rinsed after cleaning).
Rinse the toys: After disinfecting, rinse the toys thoroughly with clean water to remove any leftover cleaning solution.
Dry the toys: Allow the toys to air dry completely before giving them back to your dog. Avoid using a towel or hair dryer, as this can leave behind bacteria or damage the toys.
It’s important to disinfect the toys regularly, especially if your dog shares them with other dogs or if they are frequently dropped on the ground or in dirty areas.
General tips
Here are some general tips to keep in mind when washing your dog’s toys:
- Always read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer before washing your dog’s toys.
- Check the tags on stuffed animals to make sure they can be safely washed in a washing machine.
- Before washing, remove any excess dirt or debris from the toy as much as possible, especially before microwaving.
- Avoid microwaving toys that contain any metal parts as this can be dangerous.
- Microwaving can be a good method for cleaning rope toys, but make sure they don’t have any plastic or metal parts.
- Do not use bleach to clean your dog’s toys as this can be harmful to your furry friend’s health. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) suggests that cleaning toys in bleach is fine, provided it is diluted and the toys are fully rinsed after cleaning.
- Regular cleaning is important to prevent the buildup of bacteria and germs.
- Whenever possible, it is recommended to air dry your dog’s toys to avoid damaging the material.
- Rinse the toys thoroughly with warm water after washing to remove any remaining cleaning solution or dirt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, washing your dog’s toys is an essential part of keeping them safe and healthy. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can keep your dog’s toys clean and free from harmful bacteria and parasites. Remember to inspect your dog’s toys regularly and dispose of any toys that are worn or damaged. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.
