Shopping is part of the fun when it comes to pet ownership. Sure, there are essentials like beddings and practical clothing. But, there are also stuff we love buying just because we love playing around and spoiling our dogs silly.
The problem is, after the fun of shopping, we’re left to deal with the cleanup. Thankfully, dealing with dog laundry isn’t as hard as it might seem.
Good quality dog clothes often come with wash care labels, so be sure to check and follow instructions. Nevertheless, most clothes for dogs can survive the washer. This is especially true for dog hoodies, shirts, and sweaters made of premium cotton.
The best thing to do is turn them inside out and remove as much fur as you can from the lining before tossing them in. Taking that extra step will do a lot to keep your machine from clogging. For non-cotton apparel like dog raincoats or reflective vests, you might be better off washing by hand.
Schnauzer wearing the Shark Monster Dog Hoodie
Chihuahua wearing the ”WOOF” Dog Hoodie in bed.
Whether or not they’re soiled, everyday use can keep dog bedding from smelling fresh. There’s always slobber, dander, and other grime your pup might bring with them from the outside.
Some dog beds have convenient covers you can toss in the washer. For others, you’ll need to wash the entire bed every time. No matter the method, use a vacuum cleaner or pet hair remover to get rid of any fur that may clog your machine or drains. Follow washing instructions and make sure it’s completely dry before setting it down again to avoid mold and mildew.
Accessories like your dog harness, leash, and collar need regular washing. Otherwise, they could quickly end up with an unpleasant smell. Luckily, these are often made of nylon and fabric, making them incredibly easy to wash. All you need to do is fill a basin with hot water and pour in some gentle detergent.
If your pup has especially sensitive skin, you could use their own shampoo to do this. Once stirred, let the dog collar, harness, and leash soak for half an hour before rinsing thoroughly. Let them dry completely before putting them on, or you risk itching and skin irritation.
@frillymillytheboxer Wearing the Leopard Mesh Dog Harness
@luna.mae.lou With the Rose all Day Plush Toy.
How to wash dog toys would really depend on what they’re made of. In most cases, you can place the harder toys in the dishwasher and the plushies in the washing machine. But, make sure you look for the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before you wash them. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to wash by hand with gentle soap and water, and then allowing them to dry under the sun.
Doing your dog’s laundry is not too different from doing your own. Sure, they might be more soiled or have much more fur. But it involves all the same steps. Check the label and follow instructions. When in doubt, handwash with a gentle detergent. It also helps to know specifically how to clean squeaky dog toys and when to throw them out.
