Safe ways to clean dog bedding and toys

Keeping Your Dog’s World Clean: A Guide to Safely Cleaning Bedding and Toys

Our dogs are more than just pets; they’re family. We want the best for them, from nutritious food to comfortable beds. But just like our own living spaces, our dogs’ bedding and toys can harbor dirt, bacteria, and allergens. Regularly cleaning these items is crucial for maintaining your dog’s health and well-being, and it can even improve your own home’s cleanliness.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through safe and effective methods for cleaning your dog’s bedding and toys, ensuring a happy and healthy environment for your furry friend.

Why Cleaning Your Dog’s Belongings Matters

Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s understand the “why.” Here are some key reasons why regular cleaning is essential:

Prevents the Spread of Bacteria and Germs: Dogs spend a significant amount of time in their beds and playing with their toys. This can lead to a build-up of bacteria, yeast, and other microorganisms that can cause skin infections, digestive issues, and other health problems.

Controls Allergens: Dogs shed dander, which can be a major source of allergens for humans and other pets. Regular cleaning of bedding and toys helps to remove dander and other allergens, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Reduces Odors: Let’s face it, dog beds can get smelly! Regular cleaning helps to eliminate odors caused by dirt, saliva, and other organic matter, keeping your home smelling fresh.

Prevents Flea and Tick Infestations: Fleas and ticks can easily find refuge in dog bedding and toys. Cleaning these items regularly can help to prevent infestations or eliminate existing ones.

Extends the Lifespan of Your Dog’s Belongings: Dirt and grime can break down fabrics and materials over time. Regular cleaning helps to preserve the quality of your dog’s bedding and toys, extending their lifespan.

Maintains Overall Hygiene: Just like we clean our own beds and belongings, cleaning your dog’s items is simply good hygiene practice. It contributes to a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable environment for everyone.

General Cleaning Guidelines: Before You Start

Before you start cleaning, consider these general guidelines for best results and safety:

Read the Labels: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions on the bedding or toy label for specific cleaning recommendations. Follow these instructions carefully to avoid damaging the item.

Remove Loose Debris: Before washing or cleaning, remove any loose debris such as hair, dirt, or food particles. You can use a vacuum cleaner, lint roller, or brush for this purpose.

Ventilate the Area: Ensure the room is well-ventilated during and after cleaning to allow for proper drying and prevent the build-up of moisture.

Use Dog-Friendly Cleaning Products: Choose cleaning products that are specifically formulated for pets or are known to be safe for them. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or strong detergents that can irritate your dog’s skin or respiratory system. (More on this below).

Rinse Thoroughly: After washing or cleaning, rinse the items thoroughly to remove any residual cleaning product. This is especially important for toys that your dog might chew on.

Dry Completely: Ensure the bedding and toys are completely dry before giving them back to your dog. Damp items can promote the growth of mold and mildew.

Regular Cleaning Schedule: Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on your dog’s lifestyle and the frequency of use. As a general guideline, aim to clean bedding at least once a week and toys every few weeks.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Products

The most important aspect of cleaning your dog’s belongings is using safe and effective cleaning products. Here are some dog-friendly options:

Unscented Laundry Detergents: Opt for unscented, dye-free laundry detergents specifically designed for sensitive skin. These are generally safe for washing dog bedding and clothing. Look for detergents labeled “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin.”

Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and cleaner. You can sprinkle it on bedding, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then vacuum it up. You can also add it to the washing machine to boost the cleaning power of your detergent.

White Vinegar: White vinegar is another natural cleaner and disinfectant. It can be used to remove odors and stains. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to clean toys or spray on bedding. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Enzyme Cleaners: Enzyme cleaners are designed to break down organic stains and odors, such as urine, feces, and vomit. Look for enzyme cleaners that are specifically formulated for pets and are free of harsh chemicals.

Dish Soap (Mild): A small amount of mild dish soap can be used to clean hard toys. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.

Pet-Specific Cleaning Products: There are many cleaning products on the market specifically designed for pets. These products are often formulated with safe and gentle ingredients. Look for products that are labeled “pet-friendly” or “safe for pets.”

What to Avoid:

Bleach: Bleach is a harsh chemical that can be harmful to pets. Avoid using bleach on dog bedding or toys.

Ammonia: Ammonia is another harsh chemical that can irritate your dog’s skin and respiratory system.

Strong Fragrances: Strong fragrances can be irritating to dogs and may trigger allergic reactions. Avoid using cleaning products with strong fragrances.

Essential Oils: While some essential oils are considered safe for dogs when used properly, others can be toxic. It’s best to avoid using essential oils altogether when cleaning your dog’s belongings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Dog Bedding

Here’s a breakdown of how to clean different types of dog bedding:

1. Washable Dog Beds (Covers and Entire Beds):

Remove the Cover: If the bed has a removable cover, take it off and turn it inside out. This will help to protect the fabric and prevent fading.

Pre-treat Stains: If there are any stains on the cover, pre-treat them with a stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water.

Wash in the Washing Machine: Wash the cover in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water, using a dog-friendly detergent.

Wash the Bed (If Washable): If the entire bed is washable, place it in the washing machine and wash it on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water. You may need to take it to a laundromat if it is too large for your home washing machine.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the cover and/or bed thoroughly to remove any residual detergent.

Dry Completely: Dry the cover and/or bed in the dryer on a low heat setting or hang them outside to air dry. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them back on the bed or giving them back to your dog.

2. Non-Washable Dog Beds:

Vacuum Thoroughly: Vacuum the bed thoroughly to remove any loose debris, hair, and dander.

Spot Clean: Spot clean any stains with a dog-friendly stain remover or a mixture of baking soda and water.

Deodorize: Sprinkle baking soda on the bed and let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb odors. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.

Air Dry: Allow the bed to air dry completely.

3. Cedar-Filled Dog Beds:

Remove the Cedar Filling: Carefully remove the cedar filling from the bed and place it in a sealed container.

Wash the Cover: Wash the cover in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water, using a dog-friendly detergent.

Air Dry the Cover: Allow the cover to air dry completely.

Replace the Cedar Filling: Once the cover is dry, replace the cedar filling. You may need to add some fresh cedar shavings to refresh the scent.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Dog Toys

Dog toys come in various materials, each requiring a slightly different cleaning approach:

1. Plush Toys:

Check for Damage: Before washing, inspect the toy for any tears or loose parts. Repair any damage to prevent the stuffing from coming out.

Wash in the Washing Machine: Place the plush toy in a mesh laundry bag to protect it during washing. Wash on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water, using a dog-friendly detergent.

Dry Completely: Dry the toy in the dryer on a low heat setting or hang it outside to air dry. Ensure the toy is completely dry before giving it back to your dog.

2. Rubber and Plastic Toys:

Wash with Soap and Water: Wash the toys with warm water and a mild dish soap. Use a scrub brush or sponge to remove any dirt or grime.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the toys thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.

Disinfect (Optional): If desired, you can disinfect the toys with a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio). Let the toys soak in the solution for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Dry Completely: Allow the toys to air dry completely.

3. Rope Toys:

Check for Fraying: Inspect the rope toy for any fraying or loose strands. Remove any loose strands to prevent your dog from swallowing them.

Wash in the Washing Machine (If Allowed): Some rope toys can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water, using a dog-friendly detergent. Check the manufacturer’s instructions first.

Hand Wash (If Necessary): If the rope toy cannot be washed in the washing machine, hand wash it with warm water and a mild dish soap.

Dry Completely: Dry the toy in the dryer on a low heat setting or hang it outside to air dry. Ensure the toy is completely dry before giving it back to your dog.

4. Hard Toys (Nylabones, Kongs, etc.):

Wash with Soap and Water: Wash the toys with warm water and a mild dish soap. Use a scrub brush or sponge to remove any dirt or grime.

Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the toys thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.

Dishwasher Safe (Check First): Many hard toys are dishwasher safe. Place them on the top rack of the dishwasher and run a normal cycle.

Dry Completely: Allow the toys to air dry completely.

Tips for Removing Stubborn Stains and Odors

Sometimes, you might encounter stubborn stains or odors that require extra attention. Here are some tips for dealing with them:

Urine Stains: Blot up as much urine as possible with a clean cloth. Then, apply an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for pet urine. Follow the instructions on the product label.

Feces Stains: Remove any solid waste and then clean the area with warm water and a mild dish soap. Follow with an enzyme cleaner to eliminate any lingering odors.

Vomit Stains: Remove any solid waste and then clean the area with warm water and a mild dish soap. Follow with an enzyme cleaner to eliminate any lingering odors.

Mud Stains: Allow the mud to dry completely and then vacuum it up. If any stain remains, clean the area with warm water and a mild dish soap.

Deodorizing with Baking Soda: For general odor removal, sprinkle baking soda on the affected area and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.

Establishing a Cleaning Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to cleaning your dog’s belongings. Here’s a sample cleaning schedule:

Daily: Check bedding for loose debris and remove any visible dirt or hair.

Weekly: Wash dog bedding (covers and/or entire bed) in the washing machine.

Bi-Weekly: Clean hard toys with soap and water or in the dishwasher.

Monthly: Wash plush toys and rope toys (if washable) in the washing machine.

As Needed: Spot clean stains and odors as they occur.

When to Replace Dog Bedding and Toys

Even with regular cleaning, dog bedding and toys will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Here are some signs that it’s time to replace them:

Excessive Wear and Tear: If the bedding or toy is torn, ripped, or frayed, it’s time to replace it.

Unremovable Stains or Odors: If you can no longer remove stains or odors, even after thorough cleaning, it’s time to replace the item.

Loss of Shape or Support: If the bedding has lost its shape or is no longer providing adequate support, it’s time to replace it.

Potential Safety Hazards: If the toy has small parts that could be swallowed or poses any other safety hazards, it’s time to replace it.

Conclusion

Cleaning your dog’s bedding and toys is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. By following these guidelines, you can create a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable environment for your furry friend. Remember to choose dog-friendly cleaning products, establish a regular cleaning routine, and replace worn-out items as needed. Your dog will thank you for it!

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay