Dog toys can get dirty quickly. Your dog chews, licks, and drags their favorite toy around the house and even outside. Over time, these toys collect dirt, saliva, and harmful bacteria that could make your pet sick. So it's important to know how to wash the dog toys? Buy interactive dog toys.
You can wash dog toys safely at home using simple methods. This guide will show you:
- How to clean different types of dog toys
- If you can wash plush toys in the washing machine
- The best way to disinfect dog toys without harsh chemicals
- Tips for cleaning pet toys like rope and nylon ones
- How to keep toys fresh and hygienic longer
Why Should You Clean Dog Toys?
Dirty toys aren’t just unpleasant—they’re risky for your pet’s health. Germs and mold can hide inside soft plush dog toys or between fibers in rope dog toys.
Regular cleaning helps to:
- Kill harmful bacteria
- Prevent mold growth, especially in squeaky toys
- Keep your dog’s play area safe and odor-free
- Extend the life of your dog’s toys
Tip: Clean your pet’s toys at least once a week. For outdoor or heavily chewed toys, clean them more often.
How to Wash Dog Toys (Step by Step)
Not all toy is the same. You can wash some toys in the washing machine, but you must clean squeaky or electronic ones by hand.
Before you start, check if the toy is:
- Rubber or plastic
- A plush toy made of fabric
- A rope dog toy or nylon dog toy
- Non-washable (like electronic toys)
How to Clean Rubber, Nylon, or Rope Dog Toys
- Fill a sink or bucket with parts warm water and mild dish soap.
- Soak the toys for 10–15 minutes to loosen dirt.
- Scrub with a sponge or toothbrush, especially on textured surfaces.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Allow the toys to air dry completely before giving them back to your dog.
For tough odors or stains, add a small amount of baking soda or vinegar to the water.
How to Clean Plush or Soft Dog Toys?
If Machine-Washable
- Check the care label for washing instructions.
- Place toys in a pillowcase or laundry bag to protect them.
- Use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water.
- Add a pet-safe detergent or skip detergent for sensitive pets.
- Allow the toys to air dry naturally; avoid using a dryer.
If Hand-Wash Only
- Soak the plush toys in warm, soapy water.
- Gently squeeze and rub to remove dirt.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.
- Let the toys air dry fully before your dog plays with them again.
Can You Wash Dog Toys in the Washing Machine?
Yes, you can clean many plush dog toys this way. But don’t machine wash:
- Toys with squeakers (they may break or trap water)
- Electronic toys or those with batteries
- Leather or glued toys
Always let the toys dry completely before use. Damp toys can breed bacteria.
What Is the Best Cleaner for Dog Toys?
The safest cleaners include:
- Mild unscented dish soap
- White vinegar (50:50 with water) for a natural disinfectant
- Baking soda for removing odors
- Pet-safe sprays designed to disinfect dog toys
Avoid bleach or strong detergents. They leave residues that are unsafe for chewing.
Can You Wash Dog Toys With Detergent and Baking Soda?
Yes—if you use:
- A mild, pet-safe detergent
- A small amount of baking soda for deodorizing
- Plenty of rinsing to make sure no residue stays
Never use fabric softeners or scented cleaners.
How to Wash Dog Toys Without Detergent?
No detergent? Try these natural methods for cleaning pet toys:
Saltwater Soak
- Mix 1 tablespoon salt in 1 cup warm water.
- Soak the toy for 15 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse well.
Lemon Water Spray
- Mix 1 part lemon juice with 3 parts water.
- Spray or wipe down the toy.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Hot Water Wash
- Soak toys in hot (not boiling) water for 10 minutes.
- Scrub and allow to air dry completely.
How to Clean Dog Toys Without a Washing Machine?
Don’t have a washing machine? Here’s what to do:
- Hand wash toys in warm, soapy water.
- Use a toothbrush for small crevices in nylon dog toys and ropes.
- Rinse well and let them dry in the sun to kill germs.
Can You Wash Dog Toys With Squeakers?
Squeaky toys need special care. Machine washing may:
- Break the squeaker
- Trap water inside, causing mold
Instead, clean them by hand:
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Avoid soaking the toy.
- Rinse using a clean, damp cloth.
- Let the toy dry completely before use.
How to Clean Non-Washable Dog Toys?
For toys that can’t get wet (like electronic or leather ones):
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap.
- Use pet-safe disinfectant wipes to kill germs.
- Dry immediately with a clean towel.
- Spray lightly with vinegar water to freshen.
Pro Tips to Keep Dog Toys Clean
- Wash toys weekly to stop bacteria build-up.
- Replace toys that are too damaged to clean.
- Let toys dry in sunlight when possible—it naturally disinfects.
- Check toys often for loose parts that could harm your pet.
- Always make sure toys are completely dry before giving them back to your dog.
FAQs About Washing Dog Toys
How often should I wash dog toys?
Clean them once a week or more often for outdoor toys.
Can I use disinfectant wipes on dog toys?
Yes, but only use pet-safe disinfectant wipes.
What if my dog’s toy smells bad after washing?
Soak it in vinegar water (1:1 mix) for 10 minutes, then rinse and let it dry completely.
Final Thoughts
Regularly cleaning pet toys keeps your dog healthy and happy. Whether it’s a plush dog toy, a rope dog toy, or a nylon dog toy, proper care stops germs and extends their life.
Wash them carefully, let the toys dry completely, and enjoy safe playtime with your furry friend!
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Article by Anisur Rahman |
