How to Clean and Disinfect Your Dog’s Toys in 5 Easy Steps

As a dog owner, watching your furry friend play with their toys is one of the simple joys in life. However, it’s important to remember that those beloved toys can become dirty, grimy, and even harbor dangerous bacteria. But don’t worry, cleaning and disinfecting your pup’s toys is easier than you think! In this blog post, we’ll guide you through 5 easy steps to get your pup’s toys looking and smelling like new again. So grab your rubber gloves, put on your favorite playlist, and get started on this paw-some cleaning adventure!

Step 1: Sort the Toys

Start by sorting through your dog’s toys by material, as it will help you pick the proper cleaning methods for each toy. Think of it like sorting your laundry before running them through the washing machine: Soft toys, like plushies or stuffed animals, should be separated from hard toys, like balls or chew toys. This will help ensure each toy receives the appropriate type of cleaning.

Step 2: Wash the Toys

Clean all soft toys in the washing machine with a mild detergent. Make sure you wash them on a gentle cycle and avoid using hot water because this can damage the toys’ material. Of course, you can always hand wash the toys in your kitchen sink with warm water and soap; make sure you rinse everything thoroughly afterward. You will need a mix of warm water and mild dish soap for hard toys. Scrub the toys with a brush and pay particular attention to all the grooves or crevices where dirt or grime like to hide. Rinse the toys with warm water afterward and let them air dry.

Step 3: Disinfect the Toys

Your job isn’t over once the toys are clean. You still need to disinfect them to kill any remaining bacteria or germs. To create a disinfecting solution, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a bowl or bucket, then soak the toys in the solution for at least 10 minutes. Rinse them thoroughly afterward with warm water and let them air dry. However, chances are good that you have at least a couple of dog toys that are a bit of a mess. For heavily soiled toys or toys with a strong odor, consider disinfecting them with a pet-safe disinfectant spray. Again, once finished, let the toys air dry before giving them back to your pup.

Step 4: Inspect the Toys

Your dog may be ready to play with the toys, but that doesn’t mean the toys are ready for your dog! Make sure you closely examine the newly cleaned toys to ensure they’re still in good condition. Look for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed edges, holes, or potential choking hazards that may make the toy unsafe for your pup. That means it may be time to get rid of a toy or two.

Step 5: Store the Toys

Keeping anything your dog uses germ-free sounds impossible, right? That’s not necessarily true with your furry buddy’s toys. Store soft toys in a designated bin or basket and hard toys in a separate container. The toys should be thoroughly dried before storing them (damp toys can attract mold and bacteria), and rotate your pup’s toys regularly to keep them engaged and entertained.

Cleaning and disinfecting your pup’s toys are essential to keeping them happy and healthy. By following these easy steps, you can keep your dog’s toys in tip-top condition. And when you’re ready to spoil your furry friend with some gifts for dogs, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that they’ll be playing with clean and safe toys.