English English Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-01-27 Origin: Site
Does your dog have a favorite toy that they carry everywhere? Maybe it's that loud, colorful rubber alligator they can't sleep without, or a plush bear that's seen better days. While these toys bring endless joy to our furry friends, they also collect something less pleasant: drool, dirt, and bacteria.
Keeping your pet's playthings clean is about more than just eliminating odors; it's a crucial part of maintaining their health. A dirty dog squeaky toy can become a breeding ground for germs that might upset your pup's stomach or irritate their gums. But here is the challenge: how do you wash a toy with a delicate squeaker mechanism without ruining the noise your dog loves so much?
In this guide, we will walk you through the safest and most effective methods for cleaning different types of toys. From tough rubber chewers to soft plush companions, we will show you how to banish the grime while keeping the squeak alive.
It is easy to overlook dog toys during your regular cleaning routine. However, these items spend a lot of time in your dog's mouth, rolling around on the floor, and sometimes even buried in the yard.
When a dog plays, saliva gets trapped in the crevices of the toy. Combined with dirt from the floor, this creates a perfect environment for bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and yeast to thrive. Cleaning your squeaky dog toys regularly prevents these nasties from multiplying.
Dirt and grime can act like sandpaper. Over time, they wear down the material of the toy, whether it's fabric or rubber. Regular cleaning removes these abrasive particles, helping the toy last longer and saving you money in the long run.
Before you start scrubbing, you need to identify what the toy is made of. The cleaning method for a durable rubber alligator is very different from washing a soft, stuffed animal.
High-quality rubber toys, like the BAKE Squeak Dog Toys, are generally the easiest to clean. These toys are often made from non-toxic natural rubber designed to be bite-resistant and durable. Because the surface is non-porous, bacteria have a harder time penetrating deep into the material, but the textured surfaces (like the nubs on a crocodile tooth-grinding stick) can still trap plenty of gunk.
Fabric toys are more delicate. They absorb saliva and dirt deep into the stuffing. The squeaker inside is usually a small plastic bladder that can fill with water if you aren't careful, which often kills the sound permanently.
Hand washing is the safest bet for almost any dog toy squeaky toy. It allows you to control the amount of water exposure and ensure the squeaker doesn't get waterlogged.
Warm water
Mild, pet-safe soap or baby shampoo
A clean sponge or soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works wonders for textured rubber)
A towel
Prepare the solution: Fill a sink or basin with warm water and a squirt of mild soap.
Scrub the surface: Dip your sponge or brush into the soapy water. For rubber toys with nubs or ridges—like those designed for dental hygiene—use the toothbrush to scrub inside the crevices.
Wipe, don't soak: If the toy has a hole for the squeaker, avoid submerging it completely. Water entering the squeaker is the quickest way to ruin the noise. Instead, wipe the surface thoroughly.
Rinse carefully: Use a damp cloth to wipe away the soap residue. Make sure no suds are left behind, as ingesting soap can cause tummy trouble for your pet.
Dry completely: Pat the toy dry with a towel and let it air dry in a well-ventilated area.
If you have a solid rubber squeaky dog toy, the dishwasher can be a time-saving miracle. However, you must ensure the manufacturer labels the toy as "dishwasher safe." Many high-quality natural rubber toys can withstand the heat, but check the packaging first.
Top rack only: Place the toys on the top rack of the dishwasher. The heating element is usually on the bottom, and placing rubber toys too close to it can melt or warp them.
Skip the detergent: Commercial dishwasher detergents are often too harsh for items your dog will chew on. High heat and water pressure are usually enough to sanitize the toy. If you must use a cleaner, use a natural vinegar rinse.
Secure the toys: Make sure small toys are in a utensil holder or mesh bag so they don't fly around during the wash cycle.
Drain the squeaker: After the cycle, squeeze the toy a few times to force out any water that might have snuck inside.
Washing a plush dog toy squeaky toy in the washing machine is risky, but it can be done if you take precautions.
The main risk here is the squeaker filling with water. If possible, feel around the toy to see if the squeaker is removable (some have Velcro pockets). If not, you will need to rely on the spin cycle to force water out later.
Use a laundry bag: Place the toys inside a mesh laundry bag or a pillowcase tied at the top. This protects the toy from getting battered and keeps the stuffing contained if a seam bursts.
Gentle cycle: Use the delicate or gentle cycle with cold or warm water. Hot water can damage the plastic squeaker or melt synthetic fibers.
Pet-safe detergent: Use a tiny amount of hypoallergenic or pet-safe laundry detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, as these leave residues that are not safe for ingestion.
Drying is just as important as washing. A damp toy can grow mold on the inside, which is dangerous for your dog.
For plush toys or rubber toys with air holes, give them a vigorous squeeze after washing. You want to force as much water out of the interior as possible. If you hear a gurgling sound instead of a squeak, there is still water inside. Keep squeezing and shaking the toy until the water is gone.
Rubber Toys: Always air dry natural rubber toys. Excessive heat from a dryer can degrade the rubber, making it brittle and unsafe.
Plush Toys: You can put plush toys in the dryer on a no-heat or air-fluff setting. Keeping the toys in the mesh bag helps protect them. Alternatively, hang them on a clothesline in the sun. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant!
No amount of washing can save a toy that has reached the end of its life. You should toss a toy when:
The rubber is cracking or crumbling: Small pieces can break off and become choking hazards.
The stuffing is exposed: If your dog is pulling out stuffing, it's time for the trash.
The squeaker is loose: A dislodged squeaker is a major choking risk.
Persistent odors: If a toy still smells bad after a thorough wash, bacteria may be deep inside the material where you can't reach it.
It is generally best to avoid bleach. While it is a powerful disinfectant, it can be toxic if not rinsed away perfectly. If you need a deeper clean than soap provides, try a solution of half water and half white vinegar. Soak the toy (if it's solid rubber) or wipe it down with this mixture.
This depends on how often your dog plays with them. For a favorite daily toy, a weekly wash is a good idea. For toys that stay in the toy bin most of the time, a monthly refresh is sufficient.
If the squeaker is waterlogged, it might start working again once it is completely dry. Try shaking the toy to dislodge water and let it sit in a warm, dry spot for a few days. If the squeaker mechanism is broken or punctured, it cannot be fixed, but the toy can still be used for fetch!
Yes, generally. High-quality toys made from natural rubber, like the BAKE Squeak Dog Toy series, are non-porous. This means dirt sits on the surface rather than soaking in. They can usually be rinsed under the tap or wiped down quickly, making them a hygienic choice for heavy chewers.
A squeaky dog toy is more than just a plaything; it is a source of exercise, mental stimulation, and comfort for your pet. By keeping these toys clean, you are ensuring that playtime remains safe and healthy.
Whether you are scrubbing a rugged rubber alligator or gently washing a soft plushie, the effort is worth it. A clean toy lasts longer, smells better, and keeps your best friend happy. So, gather up those scattered toys, head to the sink, and get scrubbing—your dog will thank you for it!
