How to Clean Plush Toys & Stuffed Animals
Your dog’s favorite toy can simply be tossed in the washing machine, but you shouldn’t use just any old laundry detergent. It’s best to use natural cleaning products free of dyes and fragrances on soft dog toys.
Check for any damage before putting soft toys or rope toys in the washing machine. If there’s a hole that goes unnoticed, you could have an explosion of wet stuffing and squeakers on your hands. A broken rope toy could unravel. Either sew up the hole before placing it in the machine on the gentle cycle or hand wash. If it can’t be salvaged, throw it away.
If you’re not going to air dry after cleaning your dog’s plush toys, be sure to squeeze out any absorbed excess water before tossing it in the dryer on low heat.
How to Clean Plastic Toys and Rubber Toys
Durable hard toys like an Orka Tire or kong can be easily cleaned of grime by putting them in the dishwasher (as long as the manufacturer’s guidelines say so). After dishwashing a hard dog toy, air dry. Thin latex rubber toys will likely melt in the dishwasher. Dog parents should hand wash these types of toys with mild dish soap and warm water.
You can also DIY a disinfecting spray household cleaner by mixing white vinegar, baking soda, water, and alcohol. Use a toothbrush to scrub those tiny creases some toys have.
FYI: If you have one of our pet-safe slow feeder dog food bowls, those are top-rack dishwasher safe.
How to wash rope dog toys
Maybe you think you are your dogâs best friend, but your dogâs rope toy might have beaten you on that one. But, rope toys are made for tugging and chewing, they can harbor bacteria and grow mold â your dog has questionable friends.
To disinfect your dogâs rope toys, soak them in clean, hot water for a few minutes, then toss them in the microwave on high for one minute.
Alternatively, machine-wash in hot water, and machine dry on medium heat.
How To Safely Clean Your Dogs Dirty Toys!
Dogs love their chew toys â but after a while, they get pretty gross. Keep them clean naturally and easily with these helpful tips.
Your furriest family member loves chewing on toys â but dirt, grime, and slobber can make toys a potential source of viruses and bacteria that could get not just your dog â but also you and your family sick.
Before you send Fidoâs gross chewies to the Island of Misfit Toys, read up on how to wash them â youâll save money on new replacements, protect your dogâs and familyâs health, and keep your dog happy by preserving their favorite toy.
When you buy a dog toy, take a look at the cleaning and care instructions listed on the tag. To clean that toy, follow the directions.
If the tag is long gone and you have no idea how youâre supposed to clean it, weâve got you covered with lots of tips for getting all different types of dog toys clean.
Good hygiene is also important for keeping your dog healthy. Hereâs how to clean your dogâs teeth and ears.