How To Clean Dog Toys

It’s no secret that our furry friends love their toys and, let’s face it, some of them are downright disgusting.

When was the last time you looked at your pup’s favorite squeaky toy and thought, “Huh, that looks like it’s seen better days”?

If it’s been a while, it’s time to give those toys a good scrub! Let’s investigate the fun world of cleaning dog toys because no one wants to play the “guess what’s growing on this toy” game. 🦠

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Why Should You Clean Your Dog’s Toys?

You might be wondering why it’s even necessary to clean your dog’s toys. After all, they do have that “grunge” look, right? Well, FYI, toys can collect dirt, bacteria, and who knows what else. Plus, you want your pup to stay happy and healthy, right? Think of cleaning toys as a little pampering session for your furry friend. They deserve the best!

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start your scrub-a-dub, you need to gather your cleaning supplies. Here’s your checklist:

Hot soapy water (dish soap works wonders!)
A soft brush or sponge
A bucket or sink
White vinegar (optional but highly recommended)
A towel for drying

Different Types of Dog Toys, Different Cleaning Methods

Not all toys are created equal! You’ve got your plushies, rubber toys, and squeakers, each requiring a different cleaning approach. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Plush Toys

These cuties can definitely hold onto odors. Here’s how to freshen them up:

Check the label: Some plush toys are machine-washable! 🙌
If yes, toss it in the wash on a gentle cycle.
Add a bit of white vinegar to fight odors.
Air dry or tumble dry on low. Avoid high heat, it’s not a sauna!

2. Rubber Toys

Rubber toys are generally easier to clean, so let’s get those squeaks back:

Submerge in hot, soapy water.
Grab your brush and go to town on the nooks and crannies.
Rinse thoroughly under warm water.
If your dog is a fan of super-fun slobber, consider a dip in a vinegar solution for extra sanitization!

3. Squeaker Toys

Squeaky, squishy — such fun! But boy, do they get grimy:

Assess for damage. If your pup’s had the toy for a while, it might be time to let it go (just like your ex!).
If it’s safe, wash using the same method as rubber toys!
Make sure to avoid just throwing them in the wash if you want to keep that delightful squeak!

How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Toys?

Here’s the real question: how often do you want to avoid vet visits? Ideally, you should clean your dog’s toys weekly. Just think of how often your pup rolls in something that could make your toes curl! If you stuff them in the wash every week, you’ll keep bacteria at bay and keep your pup happy and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your dog’s toys isn’t the most glamorous chore in the world, but it definitely beats the alternative — a seriously stinky playtime. 🐶 So, grab that soap and make it a fun little ritual! Your pup will thank you, and you’ll enjoy less stress knowing their toys are in good shape.

Now, get to scrubbing! And if you find something questionable under the toy pile, just pretend you didn’t see it. 🙈

David

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉

Why Should You Clean Your Dog’s Toys?

Gather Your Supplies