How often should you clean your pet’s bedding and toys?

As pet owners, we’re always concerned about the well-being of our furry friends. One essential aspect of their health is maintaining a clean living environment. Pet bedding and toys can accumulate dirt, bacteria, and odours over time, potentially causing skin irritations or even health issues. So, how often should you clean your pet’s bedding and toys to ensure they stay fresh and safe?

1. Why Regular Cleaning Matters

Your pet’s bedding and toys are more than just accessories—they’re areas where they spend a lot of time, and they can harbour dirt, bacteria, and allergens. Regular cleaning not only helps reduce the risk of infections or allergies, but it also contributes to a more comfortable environment for your pet. Here’s why it’s important to keep things clean:

• Hygiene: Pets can transfer dirt, food crumbs, and bacteria onto their bedding and toys. If not cleaned regularly, this can cause health problems such as skin rashes, ear infections, or respiratory issues.
• Allergens: Pet dander, dust mites, and pollen can accumulate in bedding and toys. If your pet suffers from allergies or if you’re prone to allergic reactions, frequent cleaning can help reduce these triggers.
• Odour: Pets, especially dogs and cats, can sometimes have a distinct odour that clings to their bedding and toys. Regular washing helps prevent lingering smells and keeps their sleeping area fresh.
• Comfort: A clean bed is far more comfortable for your pet, helping them rest better and avoid irritations from dirty, soiled bedding.

2. Cleaning Pet Bedding: How Often and Why

The frequency of washing your pet’s bedding largely depends on their habits, health, and the type of pet. Generally, you should aim to wash their bedding at least once every 1–2 weeks, but certain factors may require more frequent washes.

• Pets with allergies or sensitive skin: If your pet suffers from allergies, cleaning bedding weekly or even more frequently can help reduce allergens and prevent flare-ups.
• Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors: Outdoor pets or those that play outside frequently may need their bedding washed more often to remove dirt, debris, or potential ticks.
• Incontinence or illness: Pets with incontinence issues or those recovering from illness may require more frequent washes to maintain a clean and hygienic environment.
• Smell or visible stains: If you notice any bad smells or stains, it’s time for a wash, even if it’s before your usual cleaning schedule.

When cleaning bedding, always use a pet-safe detergent and avoid harsh chemicals that may irritate your pet's skin. For a deeper clean, you can use a mild disinfectant safe for pets, or simply run the bedding through a hot wash cycle to kill germs and bacteria.

3. Cleaning Pet Toys: How Often and Why

Pet toys are constantly in your pet’s mouth, paws, or teeth, making them prime spots for bacteria and germs. Cleaning toys regularly ensures your pet’s playthings remain safe and hygienic.

• Hard toys (plastic, rubber, etc.): These toys should be cleaned at least once a week. Simply wash them with warm water and pet-safe soap. You can also use a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 30 parts water) for a deeper clean. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove all soap and bleach residues.
• Soft toys (stuffed animals): Soft, plush toys can harbour bacteria and germs, especially if your pet has a habit of drooling on them or chewing them. These should be washed once a week or as needed. Check the label to see if they are machine washable; otherwise, you can hand wash them with mild soap and warm water.
• Toys used for chewing or teething: If your pet is a chewer, toys should be cleaned more frequently. These types of toys can accumulate bacteria quickly from saliva, so aim for cleaning them after every few uses. Regularly check for signs of wear or tear, as damaged toys can pose a choking hazard.

Remember to also dry your pet’s toys thoroughly after washing to avoid the growth of mould or mildew, especially in soft toys or those used in moist environments.

4. How to Keep Bedding and Toys Fresh Between Washes

While regular cleaning is essential, there are steps you can take to maintain a clean environment for your pet in between washes.

• Air out the bedding: Regularly shake out and air your pet’s bedding to reduce moisture and prevent build-up of odours. You can also vacuum it to remove dirt or loose hair.
• Use pet-friendly sanitising sprays: Spritz your pet’s bedding and toys with a pet-safe sanitiser or freshener to kill germs and keep them smelling fresh. Look for products designed specifically for pets to ensure they’re safe for your furry friend.
• Keep toys in good condition: Check your pet’s toys regularly for signs of damage or dirt. Keep soft toys in a designated washing bag or a safe place to prevent unnecessary dirt or bacteria buildup.

5. Signs Your Pet’s Bedding and Toys Need Cleaning

Sometimes, it’s easy to forget about cleaning your pet’s bedding and toys, but there are some signs that indicate it’s time for a deep clean:

• A noticeable smell emanating from the bedding or toys.
• Stains, dirt, or hair accumulating on the bedding.
• If your pet begins to avoid their bed or seems uncomfortable.
• Signs of excessive chewing, drool, or residue on their toys.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning of your pet’s bedding and toys is essential for maintaining a healthy, comfortable, and hygienic environment. While the exact frequency will depend on your pet’s lifestyle, health, and habits, aim to clean bedding at least every 1-2 weeks and toys once a week or as needed. Keeping these areas clean will not only help prevent health issues but also provide your pet with a happier, more comfortable space to rest and play.