If you’re a pet parent chances are you’ve asked this question before.
After all laundry detergent is the go-to cleaning solution for many of our garments and linens so it only makes sense that it would work for our furry friends’ toys too.
The short answer is yes you can use laundry detergent to wash your pup’s toys.
But depending on the type of toy it might be better to use a specially formulated pet product.
Let’s take a closer look.
The Benefits of Laundry Detergent for Dog Toys
Laundry detergent is designed to deep-clean fabrics and remove tough stains from clothing and bedding.
That’s why it’s perfectly suited for washing your dog’s toys.
It’s strong enough to tackle even the most stubborn stains yet gentle enough to be used regularly to keep your pet’s playthings in tip-top shape.
Plus many laundry detergents come with built-in fabric softeners so your pup’s toys will stay soft and cuddly after every wash.
When to Avoid Laundry Detergent for Dog Toys
For the most part laundry detergent is safe to use on your pup’s toys.
However there are some instances when you should avoid using it.
If your pup’s toys are made of natural fibers like wool or cotton it’s best to avoid using laundry detergent.
The harsh chemicals in detergent can cause the fibers to break down over time which could make the toy unsafe for your pup to play with.
Also if your pup’s toy is stuffed with filling like stuffing or foam stick to pet-safe detergents or cleaners.
Laundry detergent can break down the filling and make it lumpy and uncomfortable for your pup to play with.
The Best Way to Wash Dog Toys with Laundry Detergent
If you’re going to use laundry detergent to clean your pup’s toys it’s important to do it the right way.
The best way to use laundry detergent is to hand-wash the toy in a sink filled with warm water and detergent.
Once the toy is washed rinse it thoroughly with clean water until all the detergent is gone.
Then let the toy dry completely before giving it back to your pup.
The Bottom Line
While laundry detergent is generally safe to use on your pup’s toys it’s important to be aware of the type of toy and the materials it’s made from before you give it a deep clean.
Whenever possible stick to specially formulated pet-safe detergents to ensure your pup’s playthings stay safe and cuddly for years to come.