Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 4: Using baking soda
• Method 2 of 4: Using peppermint soap
• Method 3 of 4: Using the dishwasher
• Method 4 of 4: Cleaning a synthetic collar
• Tips
• Warnings

A dog collar can get quite dirty because it is worn all the time. If the collar is only dirty and otherwise in good condition, then it is time to wash the collar and make it look like new again.

To step

Method 1 of 4: Using baking soda

1. Mix baking soda with water. Stir a small spoonful of baking soda into hot water until dissolved. You can use this mixture to clean all common types of dog collars.
   • Always remove the collar from your dog's neck before cleaning.
2. Scrub the dog collar with this mixture. Dip a toothbrush into the mixture and scrub the collar with it.
3. Rinse the collar. Hold the collar under running water to rinse the mixture off.
4. Let the collar dry. Place the collar on a towel to dry or hang it in a place out of direct sunlight. The collar should now be nice and clean again.
   • If the collar is made of leather, do not dry it near a strong heat source or in direct sunlight. This can cause the leather to crack.

Method 2 of 4: Using peppermint soap

1. Use this method to remove odors from a leather collar. This method is very suitable if your dog has been swimming in smelly water with his leather collar.
2. Cover the collar with peppermint soap. Remove the collar from your dog's neck and then coat it with peppermint soap.
3. Scrub the collar with a toothbrush. Remove any visible debris and try scrubbing the entire collar to help remove the odor.
4. Rinse the collar with very hot water. When you have done that, smell the collar to see if it smells better. If not, wash the collar again with soap and rinse. Repeat the process until the smell is gone.
5. Let the collar dry. Place the collar on a towel to dry or hang it up. Let the collar air dry in a place out of direct sunlight. Hopefully the collar smells a lot better now!

Method 3 of 4: Using the dishwasher

1. Only use this method for non-leather collars. Leather cannot be put in the dishwasher, but many other types of dog collars and leashes can be cleaned this way.
2. Place the collar on the top rack of the dishwasher. Clip the collar to the rack to prevent it from falling off during washing.
3. Use a normal dishwashing program. You may have to hang the collar to dry afterwards.

Method 4 of 4: Cleaning a synthetic collar

1. Use this method for nylon or polyester collars. These cleaning products can damage collars made of natural materials such as cotton, wool and leather. However, they are both good options for removing dirt and odors from synthetic materials. An alternative way to wash a synthetic collar is to put it in the washing machine and dryer along with a load of laundry. The detergent, hot water, and heat from the dryer all help to clean the collar and leash. You can also use a protective laundry bag with holes in it so that the collar does not hit or hit the drum. This way you also protect the washing machine and dryer and all other laundry.
   • Before you begin, remove the collar from your dog's neck.
2. Try vinegar and baking soda. Make a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and baking soda. Soak the collar in the mixture for 15 to 30 minutes.
3. Use hydrogen peroxide as an alternative. You can also soak the collar in hydrogen peroxide for about an hour.
4. Rinse the cleaner from the collar. Rinse the collar after soaking. If you used hydrogen peroxide, wash the collar with soapy water.
5. Let the collar dry. Shake the collar gently to remove the water. Then place the collar on a towel or hang it up to air dry.

Tips

• If you want to dry the collar in the dryer, put it in a lingerie bag or pillowcase first so that it doesn't hit the dryer.
• If your dog swims a lot, use a neoprene collar. Such a collar does not rot and is water resistant. That is why it does not absorb bad odors as well as other types of dog collars.
• If you wash your dog's basket, blanket or rug in the washing machine, put the collar in a lingerie bag and wash it with the rest.
• Many of these methods are also suitable for cleaning dog leashes.
• If you regularly take your dog to a dog groomer, ask the groomer to wash the collars for you.
• Saddle soap is excellent for cleaning leather collars. For best results, rub a leather care product onto the collar after cleaning.

Warnings

• Buy a new collar if the old one falls apart. A broken collar can be dangerous if your dog chews or trips over it.
• Do not use bleaching agents on collars made from natural materials such as cotton, leather and bamboo. This can damage or discolour the collar, depending on the material it is made of. Most collars made of synthetic material can handle it well.