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How to sanitize pet toys: Step-by-Step

Reviewed by Zac Kieffer

Updated: September 16, 2025

Easily sanitize pet toys with E-Cloth—no harsh chemicals needed. Simple, effective cleaning for a healthier home and happier pets.

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How to sanitize pet toys: Step-by-Step

Tools:

E-Cloth
Dish soap
White vinegar
Bleach
Clean towel

Wash and Rinse

Fill a basin with warm water and add a generous squirt of dish soap.
Submerge the pet toys and scrub them using a cloth or soft brush to remove dirt and grime.
Rinse each toy under clean water until all soap residue is gone.

Disinfect Thoroughly

For plastic or rubber toys, mix a solution using 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water or a mild bleach solution (1 tablespoon of bleach in 1 gallon of water), and soak the toys for about 5 minutes.
For fabric or plush toys, stick to the soap and water method to avoid damaging the material.
Once the soak is complete, give the toys a final rinse under fresh running water.

Dry Completely

Lay the toys on a clean towel or drying rack in a well-ventilated area ensuring they are spread out for even drying.
Make sure they are completely dry before returning them to your pet to prevent any mold or bacteria buildup.

Precautions:

Verify Material Compatibility
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Do Not Soak Porous Toys
Wear Protective Gloves
Ensure Thorough Rinsing
Avoid Mixing Sanitizers
Allow Complete Drying

How to Correctly Sanitize The Pet toys: Extra Tips

Sanitizing Solution Selection

Choose pet-friendly disinfectants or a mild bleach solution diluted properly (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) to ensure safe cleaning without harmful residue on toys.
Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the toy material or pose a risk to your pet.

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Spot Cleaning and Pre-Treatment

Before a full sanitization, rinse off any loose dirt and debris with water or pet-safe wipes to ensure the cleaning solution can work effectively.
For stubborn stains, gently scrub with a soft brush to remove buildup without damaging the surface.

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Thorough Rinsing

After applying the disinfectant, rinse the toys thoroughly with clean water to remove any lingering cleaning solution, protecting your pet from ingesting chemicals.
Ensure all crevices are rinsed properly, especially in toys with multiple parts or textured surfaces.

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Drying and Storage

Allow the toys to air dry completely on a clean, dry towel or rack to prevent the growth of bacteria in damp environments.
Once dry, store the toys in a clean area, ensuring the storage space is also sanitized periodically to keep them fresh.

Common Mistakes When Sanitizing Pet toys

Overusing Harsh Chemicals

Using bleach or strong disinfectants can degrade the toy’s material, making them brittle or causing discoloration.
Harsh chemicals may leave residues that can be harmful if ingested by pets.
Always opt for pet-safe cleaning solutions or diluted mild soap to preserve both the toy's life and your pet's health.

Improper Drying

Leaving pet toys damp can encourage mold or bacteria growth, posing health risks for pets.
Air-drying in a damp or poorly ventilated space can prolong the drying process, affecting the toy's overall quality.
Ensure a well-ventilated area and, if possible, use a clean towel to speed up the drying process after washing.

Incomplete Cleaning

Failing to remove all debris or food remnants can lead to bacterial growth and attract pests.
Some pet toys have hard-to-reach areas; neglecting these can reduce the overall hygiene of the toy.
Invest time in a detailed cleaning routine, using tools like a toothbrush for crevices, to ensure every part is thoroughly cleaned.

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How Often to Sanitize Pet toys

Sanitize Pet Toys Frequency

Weekly Sanitation: For most pet toys, a thorough cleaning once a week is ideal. This helps remove the buildup of bacteria, saliva, and food residues that can accumulate during regular play.
Increased Frequency When Necessary: If your pet is particularly active, tends to drool, or if toys are shared among multiple pets, consider sanitizing every few days to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
Illness Considerations: During times when your pet is sick, increasing the sanitation frequency to every other day can help minimize the spread of germs and support a quicker recovery.
Outdoor Exposure: Toys that regularly venture outdoors or come into contact with dirt and debris should be cleaned more often, as they can harbor not just bacteria but also environmental pollutants.

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