Pets toys (especially dog toys) get covered in dirt from the floor, saliva, and all sorts of gross stuff. You might want to clean your pet’s toys to keep them healthy and safe, or just to keep your hand from having to touch your dog’s disgusting playthings. Do your pet and yourself a favor and use these tips to get clean pet toys.
Rubber/Plastic/Hard toys
Fill your sink or bathtub with warm soapy water. Place all of your plastic, hard, and rubber pet toys in the water and let them soak for 5-10 minutes. After their soak, wipe the toys down with a rag and then place them on a dry towel. Let the toys air dry.
Rope Toys
You have a few different options with rope toys. Your first is to just put them in the dishwasher (but not with any of your dishes…gross!). Run the washer for a full cycle with no detergent.
You can also microwave rope toys (see also “Did you know you can cook a sponge?“). First wet the toy, then place it inside the microwave. Set the timer to one minute. Be careful when removing the rope toy as it will be hot.
Stuffed Animals
Most stuffed toys can be cleaned in the washing machine. Some will withstand going through the dryer and some won’t.
Clean Pet Toys Means Cleaner Fun
Always read the instructions that came with your pet’s toy to learn how to properly care for it. Also, know the limits of what cleaning can do. If a toy is mangled beyond help, just throw it away and treat your pet with a brand new (and squeaky clean) toy.