May 13, 2025Dog Toys

How Often Should You Wash Dog Toys?

Why Your Dog Smells Funky (and What Their Toys Have to Do With It)
The surprising link between dog odour, hygiene, and how often you should clean their toys.

Let’s be honest — we love our dogs, but sometimes… they don’t exactly smell like roses. And while it’s easy to blame bath time delays, that lingering doggy smell might be coming from something you haven’t thought about: dirty dog toys.

How Dog Toys Contribute to Odour and Skin Issues

Your dog’s favourite plushies and chews are more than just playtime fun — they’re bacteria magnets. Every slobber-filled bite, muddy roll, and food-crusted cuddle turns them into little stink bombs. Over time, these toys can irritate your dog’s skin and contribute to unpleasant pet odour around your home.

How Often Should You Wash Dog Toys?

Keeping your dog’s toys clean is a simple but powerful way to improve their hygiene and reduce odour:

Soft toys (plush, squeaky): Wash weekly in cold water with a pet-safe or fragrance-free detergent. Air dry or use a low tumble setting.
Hard toys (rubber, nylon, rope): Clean 2–3 times per week by soaking in a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and warm water. Scrub off grime, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.

Regular toy cleaning helps prevent bacteria buildup, mould, and allergens — all of which can affect your dog’s skin health and smell.

Natural Dog-Safe Deodorising Hacks

Want to keep things fresh between toy-washing days? Try these natural deodorising tricks that are safe for dogs:

Baking soda: Sprinkle a little on dog beds or toys before washing to naturally absorb odours.
Apple cider vinegar spray: Mix 1 part ACV to 2 parts water in a spray bottle and mist lightly on dog bedding or fabric toys (avoid open wounds or irritated skin).
Essential oil blends: A few drops of dog-safe essential oils (like lavender or chamomile), properly diluted in water, can freshen up your pup’s space. Never apply directly to your dog without professional guidance.

A Natural Way to Keep Your Dog Smelling Fresh

If you want a gentle, dog-safe fragrance that keeps your pup smelling amazing without harsh alcohol & chemicals, check out our Bug & Bun Dog Fragrance.

Crafted for modern dog owners, Bug & Bun is made with natural essential oils and premium quality perfumer-approved oils that are kind to your dog’s skin and nose — and your own. It’s the perfect finishing touch to a clean, comfy, and great-smelling dog.

Final Sniff Check: What You Should Remember

Clean dog toys regularly — weekly for soft toys, multiple times a week for hard ones.
Use natural, pet-safe products like baking soda and vinegar to fight odours.
Keep your dog’s environment fresh to support their skin health and reduce unwanted smells.
Try Bug & Bun for a safe, fresh-smelling dog.