Washing your dog’s toys might seem like a minor task, but it plays a vital role in maintaining your pet’s health and hygiene. Dog toys are exposed to dirt, saliva, bacteria, and even fecal matter over time and can harbor harmful germs and allergens. Knowing how to properly clean dog toys, when to clean them, and when to discard them is key to keeping your pup safe, especially in multi-pet homes.
Dog toys come in various materials including rubber, plastic, rope, and plush. Each material requires a slightly different cleaning method. For rubber or plastic toys, washing with hot soapy water is usually effective for regular cleaning. Use dish soap and a scrub brush to get into crevices, rinse thoroughly, and allow to air dry completely. Many rubber and plastic toys are also dishwasher safe on the top rack, which is an easy way to sanitize them.
Can You Wash Dog Toys?
Plush toys and fabric-based items can often be washed in a washing machine. Use a gentle cycle with hot water and a pet-safe detergent. If your dog is sensitive to chemicals or fragrances, you can wash toys with unscented detergent or natural cleaners like white vinegar. Either air dry or tumble dry on low heat to preserve the shape and stitching.
Rope toys are a special case because they can trap moisture and grow mold or bacteria inside the fibers, it is best to soak them in boiling water with some vinegar. After cleaning, allow them to dry thoroughly, as damp toys can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
How to Sanitize Dog Toys
Sanitizing toys is especially important when illness is present or suspected. Parvo, a highly contagious and often deadly virus that impacts the gastrointestinal tract of dogs, can survive on surfaces for months. Regular soap and water are not enough to eliminate it.
Bleach does kill parvo on hard, non-porous dog toys. A diluted solution of one part bleach to 30 parts water (approximately ½ cup per gallon) is recommended for sanitizing. Soak the toys for at least 10 minutes, rinsing thoroughly before putting them in the dishwasher or washing machine.
It is important to use this method only on toys that can tolerate bleach and are made of materials that will not absorb the chemical, like solid rubber or hard plastic. Removing bleach completely from plush or porous toys can be difficult and may destroy some of the synthetic materials in these toys, so toss these toys if you think they must be cleaned with bleach. Toys made from bone or wood cannot be sanitized or effectively cleaned and should be discarded.
Discard Damaged or Worn Dog Toys
Regular inspection of your dog’s toys is just as important as cleaning. Over time, toys can become damaged or worn, creating hazards like loose parts, sharp edges, or frayed strings that can be swallowed and pose choking and obstruction risks. You should discard any toys that are broken, losing stuffing or squeakers, have pieces coming off, or that cannot be effectively cleaned. If you are unsure whether a toy is still safe, it is best to err on the side of caution and replace it. A new toy will always be less expensive than an unexpected vet bill.
Washing your dog’s toys regularly is a simple but effective way to protect your pet and family from germs, illness, and injury. Clean toys not only promote better health for your dog, but also help to extend the life of the toys themselves, making it a worthwhile habit for every pet owner.
