How to Clean and Sanitize Your Dog's Plush Toys at Home

Quick Answer

To clean your dog's plush toys at home, start by removing loose debris, then machine wash them in hot water with a pet-safe detergent, add a vinegar rinse to sanitize, and air dry completely. For toys with electronics or delicate parts, hand wash instead. Always check the care label first and replace toys that are torn or heavily worn.

Plush toys are a favorite for many dogs, but they also collect slobber, dirt, and bacteria over time. Regular cleaning not only keeps them looking fresh but also helps prevent the buildup of germs that could make your pup sick. Fortunately, you don't need special equipment or expensive cleaners—most plush toys can be refreshed with items you already have at home.

This guide walks you through a simple, step-by-step process to clean and sanitize your dog's plush toys safely. Whether you're dealing with a slobbery squeaker or a well-loved comfort toy, these methods will help extend its life and keep your dog healthy.

Before You Start: Check the Toy

Before tossing a plush toy into the wash, examine it for damage. Look for loose threads, torn seams, or exposed stuffing. If the toy is ripped, the stuffing can come out during washing and clog your machine, and your dog could ingest it. If you find any damage, either repair it with a needle and thread or consider replacing the toy.

Also, check the care label if it's still attached. Some plush toys are machine washable, while others require hand washing. Toys with electronic components, like squeakers or motion sensors, should never be submerged in water unless the label says otherwise. For those, spot cleaning is the safer option.

• Remove any loose dirt or hair with a lint roller or by shaking the toy outside.

Machine Washing: The Deep Clean Method

For most plush toys, a washing machine is the most efficient way to get them clean. Place the toy in a pillowcase or a mesh laundry bag to protect it and prevent the squeaker from getting lost. Use hot water (if the fabric allows) and a gentle cycle. Add a small amount of pet-safe detergent—avoid fabric softeners and bleaches, as they can leave residues that are irritating to your dog's skin.

To sanitize without harsh chemicals, add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer that helps break down slobber and odors. It's safe for most fabrics and won't leave a lingering scent once the toy is dry.

• Never use hot water on toys with plastic squeakers unless the label specifically permits it—heat can warp the plastic.

Hand Washing: For Delicate or Electronic Toys

If a plush toy has a squeaker that you want to preserve, or if it's made from delicate materials like velvet or faux fur, hand washing is the gentler choice. Fill a sink or basin with warm water and a small amount of pet-safe detergent. Submerge the toy and gently squeeze it to work the soap through the fabric. Avoid scrubbing too hard, which can damage the fibers.

Rinse thoroughly in clean water until no soap remains. For extra sanitizing, you can soak the toy in a solution of one part vinegar to three parts water for 10–15 minutes before rinsing. This helps kill bacteria without the harshness of bleach.

• For toys with electronics, use a damp cloth with a mild soap solution to wipe the surface, then dry immediately.

Drying: The Final Step

Proper drying is just as important as washing. Moisture left inside a plush toy can lead to mold and mildew, which is harmful to your dog. Air drying is the safest method: place the toy on a clean towel in a well-ventilated area, and flip it occasionally to ensure even drying. This may take 24–48 hours depending on the toy's size.

If you're in a hurry, you can use a dryer on a low or no-heat setting, but only if the toy is dryer-safe. Check the label first. High heat can melt synthetic fibers or damage squeakers. To speed up air drying, you can also use a fan or place the toy near a dehumidifier.

• Make sure the toy is completely dry before giving it back to your dog—squeeze it to check for any dampness in the center.

Keeping Toys Hygienic Between Washes

You don't have to wash plush toys every day to keep them hygienic. A quick weekly routine can help. Start by brushing off loose dirt and hair with a soft brush or lint roller. Spot clean any visible stains with a damp cloth and a drop of pet-safe detergent.

To reduce bacteria buildup, rotate your dog's toys so each one gets a break and a chance to air out. You can also spray toys with a pet-safe fabric freshener or a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) and let them dry. This helps neutralize odors and keeps toys fresher between deep cleans.

• Consider having two sets of plush toys so you can swap them out while one set is being washed and dried.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Routine

1. Inspect and prep: Check for damage, remove loose dirt and hair, and place the toy in a mesh bag if machine washing. Repair any tears before washing to prevent stuffing from escaping.
2. Wash with pet-safe detergent: Use hot water and a gentle cycle, or hand wash with warm water. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Never use hot water on toys with plastic squeakers unless the label says it's safe.
3. Sanitize with vinegar: Add half a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle, or soak in a vinegar-water solution for hand washing. Vinegar kills germs and removes odors without harsh chemicals.
4. Dry completely: Air dry on a towel in a ventilated area, or use a low-heat dryer if the label allows. Ensure the center is fully dry. Moisture leads to mold—always check for dampness before returning the toy.
5. Maintain weekly: Brush off hair, spot clean stains, and rotate toys to let them air out. A quick weekly routine keeps toys hygienic between deep cleans.

Products That Help Make Cleaning Easier

• JW Treat N Squeak Ball Treat Dispensing Dog Toy: The JW® Pet Treat Tower is a cutting-edge playful learning activity and treats dispensing toy. This playful learning activity toy has a tough nylon frame with creatively styled openings. Suitable for a variety of treats. Simply insert the treat in the top and they randomly come out the bottom as a dog works to release them. Holds up to rugged play and the difficulty level can be adjusted to make it more challenging. Because it's made of tough nylon rather than plush, it's easier to wipe clean and less likely to harbor bacteria—making it a great low-maintenance alternative for dogs who love treat toys.
• OurPets 3" IQ Treat Ball: OurPets® IQ Treat BallTM is an interactive toy to stimulate a dog. Great for dogs who get bored easily and will keep a dog entertained for hours. As a dog rolls the ball they are rewarded and are dispensed a treat. Fill the ball with their favorite kibble or treat. Adjust the desired difficulty level in the interior based on the dog. This treat-dispensing ball has a smooth surface that's easy to rinse and sanitize, so you can keep it hygienic with minimal effort compared to plush toys.

Cleaning your dog's plush toys doesn't have to be a chore. With a simple routine of inspecting, washing, sanitizing, and drying, you can keep them fresh and safe for your pup. Remember to check for damage regularly and replace any toys that are beyond repair. By staying on top of hygiene, you'll help your dog enjoy their favorite toys for longer—and you'll both breathe easier.