Dog collar resting on counter

HOW TO WASH AND CLEAN DOG COLLARS

Keeping your dog clean, from their paws to their collars, can make spending time with your pet much more enjoyable. Dog collars should be cleaned regularly because they can collect dirt, oils and anything else your sweet pup might get into while playing outside. The best method to wash a dog collar depends on what the collar is made of, whether it be nylon, polyester, leather or something else.

To wash dog collars, follow the care label’s washing recommendations, being mindful of the fabric or material of your specific collar. Learn how to wash other commonly soiled pet items like dog blankets, stuffed animals or dog beds in the washing machine.

Person rinsing dog collar in Maytag® Pet Pro Washer Person rinsing dog collar in Maytag® Pet Pro Washer

CAN YOU WASH DOG COLLARS IN THE WASHING MACHINE?

Dog collars that are made of nylon, polyester or another type of fabric can often be washed in the washing machine. Collars made of leather or metal are not suitable for machine washing. Always follow the care label on the dog collar or instructions on the collar packaging for washing recommendations.

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TOP LOAD PET PRO WASHER

BRING ON SERIOUS STAINS, PET HAIRS AND ODORS

The Pet Pro Washer is engineered to remove loads of pet hair with the Pet Pro option and built-in Pet Pro Filter

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR DOG’S COLLAR?

As a rule of thumb, you should wash your dog’s collar as often as you give your pet a bath. This prevents putting a dirty article on your already-clean pet. Washing your dog’s collar after instances where they get exceptionally dirty can help keep your pet cleaner for longer periods of time. Learn more about how to wash dog leashes and harnesses to help ensure your pet stays clean.

Control panel for Maytag® washing machine Control panel for Maytag® washing machine

HOW TO CLEAN DIFFERENT TYPES OF DOG COLLARS

To achieve optimal results after cleaning your dog collar, pay attention to the specific fabric the collar is made out of. Generally speaking, you should read your collar’s care label, gather your needed items and wash the collar as directed.

HOW TO WASH NYLON OR POLYESTER DOG COLLARS

You should wash your nylon dog collars in the washing machine or by hand, selecting the method that’s recommended by the collar’s care label. If handwashing, use a gentle dish soap or mild detergent to remove unwanted smells or stains before laying the collar flat to air dry.

HOW TO WASH LEATHER DOG COLLARS

Leather is a more delicate material and should be properly cared for to retain its look and feel. Always refer to your leather dog collar’s care tag for recommended cleaning instructions. Regularly spot clean your leather collar as instructed and leave it in a well circulated area to dry. Avoid direct sun exposure, as this can cause the collar to become dry and crack.

Many leather dog collar care tags recommend avoiding soaking the collar in water, a cleaning solution, or putting it in the washing machine, as it’s possible this may damage the collar.

HOW TO WASH FABRIC DOG COLLARS

Following the care label instructions found on your fabric dog collar will help ensure your collar remains durable and retains its color for a longer period of time. Many fabric dog collars can be washed in your washing machine. If allowed per the care tag, remove any ID/vaccination tags and put the collar in a garment bag to help contain it. Then, run it through a gentle cycle with cold water and air dry.

HOW TO WASH METAL DOG COLLARS

In general, metal dog collars can be easier to clean than others. Hand washing these items with mild dog shampoo or dish soap is a gentle cleaning solution that shouldn’t damage metal dog collars. Once you have cleaned your metal dog collar, use a nonabrasive cloth to make sure it is completely dry so that it doesn’t suffer water damage or develop rust spots.

Person pressing Pet Pro button on washer

WASHING DOG COLLARS: STEP-BY-STEP

Depending on the material, the best way to wash your dog collar is either hand washing or in a regular washing machine, Always check the care label on your dog collar before washing to be sure. Use the following step-by-step instructions to help you get your dog collars fresh and clean.

TOOLS & SUPPLIES

  • Warm water
  • Soft cloth
  • Soft bristle brush or toothbrush
  • Dish soap
  • Mild detergent
  • Baking soda
Person holding dog collar label

1. READ YOUR DOG COLLAR’S CARE LABEL

Before you begin to clean your dog collar, read the collar’s care label. The care label specifies what method is most suitable for washing your collar, the types of cleaning solutions to use and other helpful cleaning tips. This way, you can figure out exactly how you should wash the collar, whether it be in the washing machine or hand washing.

Person scrubbing dog collar with soapy water and toothbrush

2. WASH DOG COLLAR AS DIRECTED

To hand wash a dog collar, follow the instructions on the care label, which may include using a bristle brush, toothbrush or cloth to loosen built-up grime. You can also soak the collar in soapy water to remove stains and dirt, and use baking soda to help get rid of strong smells.

 

To wash dog collars in the washing machine, first remove any metal tags from the collar if possible and then put the dog collar in a mesh laundry bag. This can help to protect the inside of your washing machine from scratches. Follow the collar’s label instructions for washing at the correct temperature. Often, this includes a gentle cycle with cold water.

 

The Maytag® Pet Pro washer features a built-in water faucet which allows you to rinse, spot treat or soak clothes right in the washer.

Dog collar laid out to dry on towel

3. DRY YOUR DOG COLLAR

The final step is drying your dog collar. Drying your dog collar properly will also help ensure that it stays in good condition. Use your care label to guide you through this final step.

  • For metal dog collars, make sure the collar is completely dry so that it doesn’t develop rust spots or suffer from water damage.

  • Leather dog collars should avoid direct sunlight during the drying step, otherwise the leather material may crack or become damaged.

  • A fabric dog collar can simply be hung up or laid out to dry anywhere with good airflow.

SHOP THE MAYTAG® PET PRO SYSTEM FOR REMOVING PET HAIR

The Maytag® Pet Pro System can help tackle all kinds of pet messes. The Deep Fill Option can give you more water for rinsing extra-dirty items before using robust action to saturate loads, loosen stains and help soak away tough messes.

After washing, the Pet Pro Option on select Maytag® dryers lifts and captures pet hair from clothes and traps it in the lint trap, so your pets’ favorite items are ready for playtime and daily walks. The Maytag® Pet Pro System can also help you keep washable dog beds and dog toys clean.

TIPS FOR CLEANING DOG COLLARS

Follow these guidelines to help ensure your dog’s collars are clean and ready for use whenever you need them.

  • Shake off any dirt or debris before washing.

  • Wash your dog’s collar with leashes or harnesses, if the care tags allow.

  • Don’t use chemical-based, scented detergents or soaps when cleaning dog collars.

  • Use mild dish soap to remove grease stains on your dog’s items.

  • For items that have close contact with your dog, use pet-safe detergents or dog shampoo.

  • If you don’t have a mesh laundry bag on hand, wrap dog collars in dog blankets or removable dog bed covers to help protect your washing machine.

Maytag® Extra Power button

FAQS ABOUT WASHING DOG COLLARS

Knowing some key guidelines can help you wash dog collars with more confidence. Read on to learn if it’s okay to wash dog collars in the dishwasher, dry them in the dryer and more.

CAN YOU WASH DOG COLLARS IN THE DISHWASHER?

It’s not recommended to wash dog collars in the dishwasher as this is not an intended use of the appliance. A washing machine or hand washing are the best options for cleaning fabrics. Dishwashers are built to clean glass, ceramic, metal and other surfaces common in kitchenware.

If you’re looking for an appliance to handle everyday meal cleanup, select Maytag® dishwashers provide options such as the PowerBlast® Cycle and Dual Power Filtration to give you added dish cleaning strength. Learn how to wash dog bowls in the dishwasher as well.

CAN YOU PUT A DOG COLLAR IN THE DRYER?

It is best to air dry dog collars rather than putting them in the dryer. High heat can damage nylon webbing, warp plastic components and shrink or crack leather. Lay the collar flat or hang it to dry completely before use.

CAN YOU WASH A DOG COLLAR WITH BLEACH?

Avoid using bleach on dog collars. Bleach can weaken nylon and fabric fibers, damage colors and leave chemical residue that may irritate your dog's skin. Use pet-safe detergent, baking soda or white vinegar instead.

EXPLORE MAYTAG® WASHERS AND DRYERS FOR PET HAIR REMOVAL

Discover the complete Maytag® Pet Pro System. Get a clean you can see with the Maytag® Pet Pro washer that's built to remove pet hair. The Pet Pro Option unleashes additional water and a deep rinse to lift and remove pet hair with help from the built-in Pet Pro Filter.1 Other features on select Maytag® models include Extra Power, which boosts stain fighting on any wash cycle so you can walk away while stains wash away, and the 16-Hr Fresh Hold® Option, which keeps clean clothes fresh for up to 16 hours after the wash cycle ends.

Explore additional features on select Maytag® washers like the Deep Fill Option that gives you more water when you want it and works with robust wash action to saturate loads, loosen stains and help soak away tough messes. The steam-enhanced dryer lets you harness the power of steam to help prevent wrinkles and refresh clothes while Moisture Sensing helps prevent over- and under-drying on every load. In the never-ending fight against pet hair, Maytag® Pet Pro washers are ready to conquer pet hair like a pro.

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1. Results vary based on pet hair type and fabric type.