Wondering how to clean and sanitize your dog’s KONG toy? Due to their resilient rubber, funky shape and open interior, KONG dog toys are very popular. Unfortunately, their treat-dispensing interior is what can make them a mess. So should you stick them in the dishwasher? Hand wash them? Simply hose them down?
To begin with, KONG now manufacturers a wide array of rubber-based, rope and plush toys. This article will look at ways to best clean and sanitize KONG’s classic rubber toys. While many are dishwasher safe, there are a few tips and precautions to be aware of. Thus, let’s look at how to best wash these durable chew toys!
Why Do KONG Toys Need To Be Washed?
KONG dog toys help provide mental stimulation, relieve boredom and anxiety, and curb destructive behavior. These highly-durable cone-shaped toys are also known to challenge the most vigorous of chewers, keeping them occupied for weeks, months or even years. However, the toy’s opening at the bottom can make the toy tricky to clean though.
Stuffed with peanut butter, wet dog food, cottage cheese, honey, frozen yogurt or any other super sticky substance makes these toys a haven for bacteria, mold and even insects. Thus, it’s best to always keep an eye on the state of your dog’s toy and monitor it for any grime or unwanted substances.
Can You Wash A KONG Toy In The Dishwasher?
Even if your dog thoroughly tongue-cleans their KONG toy, it’s still advisable to sanitize it on a regular basis. KONG rubber dog toys are dishwasher safe but for the top-rack only. Toys on the bottom rack are susceptible to melting or losing their shape. Still, the heat and antibacterial dishwasher soap will kill any bacteria growing on the rubber, as well as clear dried saliva and food.
While this is perhaps the easiest way to wash this toy, note that the rubber may break and wear down quicker than usual. In fact, the dishwasher option should likely be used no more than once or twice a week, especially if your dog regularly tries to tear apart the toy (and not just lick out food). If your dog’s KONG looks worse for the wear after dozens of dishwasher runs—as in, particles of rubber are visibly falling off—it’s best to replace the toy. Furthermore, when in doubt, always consult the instructions given with the product if available.
How Do You Hand Wash a KONG Toy?
Hand washing is also a quick and effective method for de-sliming a KONG toy. Simply use a dab of all-natural dish soap and rub it down in warm water with a sponge, cloth, brush or even just your hands. For toys that have food dried or stuck inside, soaking it in warm soapy water for 15-30 minutes should break up the gunk and make it easier to wash away.
When outdoors in warmer months, also consider simply spraying down the toy with a high-powered hose. While this won’t method won’t kill bacteria, it will clear away any food particles that could attract ants or other insects. By spraying it down after each use, you’ll also lessen how many times you have to hand wash the toy or stick it in the dishwasher.
Are There Other Toy Options For Dogs That Love To Chew?
Remember, if your dog loves a KONG, they’ll also love Super Chewer Dog Toys. Made with all-natural flexible rubber, these toys are safe, unique and incredibly durable. Like KONG’s rubber toys, they also have erratic bounces, but they also have a variety durable toys with various textures, shapes and special features to choose (chews?) from.
Related Reading: What Toys Are Similar to KONG Dog Toys?
Don’t Forget About The Super Chewer BarkBox!
And for those dogs who regularly need a new batch of tough toys, there’s also the Super Chewer BarkBox. Each month a carefully picked selection comes straight to your door with a new theme. You pup will get 2 durable toys (never any fluff), 2 bags of all natural treats, and 2 tasty chews. Starting at $29 a month, the Super Chewer BarkBox allows pup parents to tailor the boxes to best suit their aggressive chewer. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the BARK Happy team with any questions on Barkbox.com or with email at [email protected]. BARK is always happy to help you spoil your pup!
Featured image via KongCompany Dot Com
