Ever noticed your dog’s favorite toys looking a little too well-loved—and wondered if you can just toss them in the washing machine? You’re not alone. Clean toys keep your pup safe from germs and extend the life of their playthings, but it’s important to do it right.
This article will show you how to safely clean dog toys in your washing machine with simple steps, helpful tips, and key things to watch for. Let’s get those toys squeaky clean!
Can You Clean Dog Toys in the Washing Machine?
Absolutely! Many dog toys can be cleaned effectively and safely in the washing machine, making it a convenient option for busy pet owners. Regular cleaning of your pup’s toys helps remove dirt, drool, and harmful bacteria that can accumulate over time. Knowing how to do it properly can extend the life of the toys, keep your dog healthy, and maintain a fresher home environment.
In this article, you’ll learn which dog toys are suitable for machine washing, step-by-step instructions to clean them correctly, and expert tips to maximize safety and cleanliness. Let’s dive in.
Which Dog Toys Can Go in the Washing Machine?
Not all dog toys are built the same. Before tossing everything into the washer, it’s crucial to check which toys are safe for machine cleaning.
Good Candidates for Washing Machines
- Soft, plush toys: Most stuffed or fabric dog toys can usually be washed.
- Rope toys: Sturdy rope toys often hold up well in the machine.
- Toys without electronic parts: Toys lacking squeakers or battery-operated parts are ideal.
Toys to Avoid Machine Washing
- Rubber and plastic toys: These may warp or get damaged. Hand washing is usually best.
- Toys with electronic or noise-makers: Water can ruin these components or cause mold growth.
- Old, fragile toys: If the toy is falling apart, it could get worse in the wash.
Tip: Always check the care label or packaging on your dog’s toys for washing instructions.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Wash Dog Toys in the Washing Machine
Follow these simple steps to make sure your dog’s toys come out clean and safe.
1. Sort the Toys
- Separate soft, fabric, or rope toys from hard or mechanical ones.
- Remove any toys with electronic components, loose parts, or signs of serious wear and tear.
2. Prep the Toys
- Shake or brush off loose dirt and debris.
- Inspect each toy for holes, rips, or stuffing coming out. Repair torn toys if possible.
- Remove any detachable pieces (squeakers, plastic eyes) if you’re able to.
3. Load the Toys Properly
- Place toys inside a mesh laundry bag or pillowcase. This protects both the toys and your washing machine.
- For larger loads, split into smaller batches to avoid unbalancing the machine.
4. Choose the Right Detergent
- Use a mild, fragrance-free, and non-toxic detergent. Baby detergents or specialized pet-safe options are best.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, strong fragrances, and fabric softeners, as residues can be harmful if ingested.
5. Select Washing Settings
- Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water.
- Avoid hot water; it can damage toys or set in stains.
6. Start the Wash
- Add the mesh bag with toys, some old towels (to balance the load and reduce banging), and start the cycle.
- Double rinse if your washing machine has this option, ensuring all detergent is gone.
7. Dry the Toys
- Air dry toys whenever possible. Hang them outside, on a rack, or near a sunny window. Sunlight helps kill remaining germs.
- For machine drying, choose a low or air-only setting. Excessive heat may cause some toys to shrink or become misshapen.
Benefits of Washing Dog Toys in the Machine
- Convenience: Saves time and effort compared to hand-washing.
- Hygiene: Eliminates bacteria, dirt, and allergens more effectively.
- Prolonged Toy Life: Removes germs and debris that can degrade materials.
- Odor Removal: Gets rid of doggy smells and keeps your home fresher.
- Safe for Family: Reduces the risk of spreading pet-related germs to people, especially kids.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Stuffing & Squeakers
- Machine agitation may cause stitches to unravel or squeakers to dislodge. Always check and reinforce seams beforehand.
- After washing, do a thorough inspection to ensure toys remain intact and safe for chewing.
Chewed or Damaged Toys
- Discard severely worn toys rather than risk them breaking more in the wash or becoming a choking hazard.
Overuse of Detergent
- Too much soap leaves residue; measure detergent carefully and select an extra rinse.
Best Practices and Expert Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Wash soft and rope toys weekly or bi-weekly, depending on how often your dog plays with them.
- Rotate Toys: Consider keeping toys in groups and rotating them—while one set is being washed, your dog has a fresh batch.
- Replace as Needed: No washing method will save a toy forever. If a toy is ripped, unravelling, or losing stuffing, replace it.
- Spot Clean Between Washes: Wipe toys with a damp cloth and a little pet-safe soap for quick refreshes.
- Inspect After Every Wash: Look for loose threads, holes, or weak spots before handing toys back to your pup.
Final Thoughts
Washing dog toys in the washing machine is an easy and effective way to keep your pet’s playthings clean, safe, and fresh. By following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll help protect your dog from germs, extend the lifespan of their favorite toys, and maintain a cleaner home. Just remember: when in doubt, inspect every toy before and after washing, and always err on the side of caution to keep your best friend safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular laundry detergent to wash dog toys?
It’s safest to use a mild, fragrance-free, and non-toxic detergent for washing dog toys. Regular detergents may leave harmful residues that your dog could ingest.
How often should I wash my dog’s toys in the machine?
Aim to wash your dog’s soft and rope toys every 1–2 weeks, especially if your dog plays with them heavily or gets them wet and dirty.
Is it safe to wash all dog toys in the washing machine?
Not all toys are suitable. Only machine wash fabric, plush, and rope toys without electronic parts or fragile construction. Hard rubber, plastic, or battery-operated toys should be hand-washed or cleaned according to manufacturer instructions.
Can I put dog toys in the dryer after washing?
You can tumble dry sturdy fabric or rope toys on a low or air-only setting, but air drying is safer and helps preserve their shape. Avoid high heat to prevent damage.
What should I do if a toy has a squeaker or makes noise?
Remove any built-in noise-makers if possible before washing. Water can damage squeakers and encourage mold growth inside the toy. If removal isn’t possible, consider hand-washing and ensure the toy is thoroughly dried.