With constant use, your dog's collar tends to become very dirty. Before throwing it away, if it is still in good condition, learn how to wash it properly to get a collar like new.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Using Sodium Bicarbonate
Step 1. Mix the water and baking soda
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with hot water until dissolved. This compound can be used for cleaning most dog collars.
Remove the collar from your dog before cleaning it
Step 2. Rub the collar with the compound
Dip a toothbrush into the mixture and use it to scrub the collar.
Step 3. Rinse
Put the collar under running water to remove the cleaner.
Step 4. Let it dry
Lay it on a towel or spread it out of direct sunlight. At this point, the collar should be fresh and clean.
For leather collars, do not allow them to dry near intense heat sources or in direct sunlight as the leather may crack
Method 2 of 4: Using Mint Soap
Step 1. Use this method to remove odors from leather collars
Perfect for making the collar scent again if your friend Fido has decided to bathe in foul-smelling waters.
Step 2. Create a lather with the peppermint soap
Remove the collar from your dog, then sprinkle it with foam.
Step 3. Scrub the collar with a toothbrush
Remove visible dirt and cover the entire collar with foam to eliminate odors.
Step 4. Rinse with boiling water
After rinsing, smell the collar to see if it smells better and if necessary, lather and rinse several times until the odor is completely gone.
Step 5. Let it dry
Lay it on a towel or spread it out of direct sunlight. If all went well, the collar will smell much better!
Method 3 of 4: Use Dishwashing Liquid
Step 1. Use this method for non-leather collars only
Leather shouldn't be put in the dishwasher, but collars or leashes made from other materials can be washed this way.
Step 2. Place the collar in the top rack of the dishwasher
Hook it to the grid to prevent it from falling out during washing.
Step 3. Set up a normal wash cycle
When finished, spread the collar out to dry completely.
Method 4 of 4: Clean Synthetic Collars
Step 1. Follow this method for nylon or polyester collars
The detergents used could damage collars made of natural fibers, such as cotton, wool and leather; however, they are effective in removing dirt and odors from synthetic materials.
Remove the collar from your dog before starting
Step 2. Try using vinegar and baking soda
Make a solution containing equal parts white vinegar and baking soda. Soak the collar in the solution for 15-30 minutes.
Step 3. Alternatively, use hydrogen peroxide
Immerse the collar in hydrogen peroxide for about an hour.
Step 4. Rinse off the cleaner
At the end, rinse the solution with fresh water (or with soapy water if you used hydrogen peroxide).
Step 5. Let it dry
Gently shake to remove the water, then place the collar on a towel or spread it out.
Advice
- Many of these methods can also be used for cleaning leashes.
- If you want to use the dryer, put the collar in a laundry bag or pillow case to prevent it from hitting the sides of the drum.
- When you wash the dog's bed in the washing machine, put the collar in the laundry bag and wash them together.
- If your dog goes into the water often, opt for neoprene collars; in fact they do not rot and, since they are waterproof, they do not absorb bad smells like other types of collars.
- For leather collars, the specific soap for leather is ideal; Also rub in some leather conditioner after cleaning for better results.
- If you go to the dog groomer often, ask him if he can wash the collar as well.
Warnings
- If the collar is very worn, throw it away and buy a new one (it is potentially dangerous if your dog chews it).
- Avoid using bleach on collars made of natural materials (such as cotton, leather, bamboo, etc.). Bleach can damage them or cause them to discolor.