Cleaning A Dog Bowl

Regular cleaning of your pets dishes helps prevent the buildup of bacteria, food residue, and other contaminants that can pose a risk to your dog's health (that layer of slimy biofilm).

A dirty dog bowl is ugly to look at, smelly, and could attract pests like flies, ants, or rodents....eww.

Do the cleaning...just do it :-)

Cleaning Frequency Recommended:

Wet food: Clean your dog's food bowl (after each meal)

Dry Food: Clean your dog's food bowl (a few times a week at least)

Water Bowls: Clean your dog's water bowl (once daily).

Separate cleaning tools: Use a dedicated brush, scrubby, or rag for cleaning dog dishes. Keep the dog cleaning tools separate from the tools you use to clean your own (people) dishes.

Use mild soap or dish detergent: Use a mild soap or dish detergent specifically formulated for cleaning dishes, for daily use cleaning. After washing, rinse the bowl thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue, as residual soap can be harmful to your dog if ingested, then ensure the bowl is completely dry before refilling it with food or water.

I also do a weekly sanitizing/extra cleaning using a few tablespoons of white or apple cider vinegar in some warm water with a squeeze of dish soap and soak the bowls in this solution for 20 minutes, following with several rinses of clean water and then completely dry.

DO NOT use harsh chemicals, bleach, or cleaners that could be toxic to your dog.

Handwashing or dishwasher: Check the manufacturer's instructions to determine if the bowl is dishwasher-safe. If it is, you can place it in the dishwasher for thorough cleaning. Otherwise, handwash the bowl using warm water and dish soap, scrubbing thoroughly to remove any food particles or residue.

Regular inspection: Regularly inspect the bowl for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. If you notice any damage, it's best to replace the bowl to maintain proper hygiene.

Location and placement: Consider the location where you place the dog bowl. It should be in a clean and easily accessible area, away from contaminants and high-traffic areas. Choose to place on a hard surface floor if possible. Use a waterproof pet mat with a tall lip if needed to protect your floor from any water spills.