7 Pet Items You Can Safely Clean in the Dishwasher

If you're a pet parent, you know how much mess your beloved fur babies can bring into your home. From slobbery toys to food-encrusted bowls, keeping your pet's supplies clean is essential—not just for your home's overall hygiene but also for your pet's health. The good news? Many of your pet's most-used items can be safely cleaned right in your dishwasher, saving you time and effort.

Keep reading to discover 7 pet items you can safely clean in the dishwasher, plus tips to make sure you're doing it the right way.

Why Clean Pet Items in the Dishwasher?

Washing pet items in the dishwasher can be both convenient and more effective than handwashing. The high heat and powerful jets of water in your dishwasher help to:

• Eliminate harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli

• Remove tough food residue and grime more thoroughly

• Save time and free up your sink

• Sanitize safely without harsh chemicals that may be unsafe for pets

However, make sure to check the labels or manufacturer's care instructions before sticking anything in the dishwasher. Now, let’s dive into the 7 pet items that are typically dishwasher-safe!

1. Pet Food and Water Bowls

Pet bowls are bacteria magnets, especially when wet food is involved. Fortunately, most stainless steel, ceramic, and BPA-free plastic bowls are dishwasher safe. To sanitize correctly:

• Place bowls on the top rack if they're plastic to avoid warping

• Run on a hot or sanitizing cycle without heated dry if instructed

Make it a habit to clean your pet’s bowls daily, just like you would your own dishes. A clean bowl can help prevent yeast buildup, bugs, and harmful bacteria.

2. Non-Electronic Toys

From rubber bones to treat-dispensing puzzles, your dog or cat’s toys get slobbered on regularly. As long as the toys don’t have batteries, gears, or electronic parts, they usually can be safely washed in the dishwasher.

Tip: Some dishwashers even have a basket or compartment for small items. If not, consider placing smaller toys in a mesh laundry bag on the top rack.

• Silicone and rubber toys are generally safe to dishwash

• Hard plastic toys should also hold up under hot water

• Avoid washing plush or electronic toys this way

Cleansing toys in the dishwasher every two weeks (or more if heavily used) can prevent bacterial growth and keep your pet’s favorite playthings in tip-top shape.

3. Leash and Collar (If Nylon or Plastic)

Pet collars and leashes are exposed to dirt, saliva, and sweat daily. Nylon and plastic varieties can be tossed in the dishwasher for a deep clean, but take caution:

• Avoid leather collars, as heat and moisture can cause damage

• Use the utensil basket or mesh bag to prevent straps from getting tangled

• Use a gentle cycle and skip the heated dry setting

For a complete refresh, remove ID tags before washing and allow the leashes and collars to air dry flat to maintain shape.

4. Plastic or Silicone Pet Mats

Feeding mats and placemats placed below food and water bowls catch a lot of spills and crumbs. These are typically made from plastic or silicone and are 100% safe to run through the dishwasher.

• Place flat on the top rack to avoid overcrowding

• Run with regular or sanitizing cycles

• Check for warping if running for the first time

Cleaning mats at least once a week (more frequently for wet food eaters or messy drinkers!) helps reduce odor and prevent mold buildup.

5. Slow Feeders and Puzzle Bowls

These fun, interactive feeders help slow down pets that love to gobble their food too quickly. Since most are made from rubber or BPA-free plastic, they’re generally dishwasher-friendly. Still, make sure yours doesn’t contain any electrical parts or adhesives.

• Dismantle removable parts before placing in dishwasher

• Top-rack placement is usually best to avoid warping

• Run an extra rinse cycle to remove food residue stuck in crevices

These dishes should be cleaned as often as your pet’s traditional bowl—ideally after each use—to prevent buildup and bacteria.

6. Litter Box Scoops and Mats

Your cat's litter accessories—like scoops, trays, and mats—need some TLC too. While the actual litter box may be too large for your dishwasher (and better cleaned manually), plastic scoops and catch mats tend to fit just fine on the top rack.

• Wash separately from human dishes for extra hygiene

• Use hot water and an unscented cycle

• Do not wash wood-based items or boxes with electric components

Keeping your litter area clean not only reduces odors but also keeps your feline friend happy and reduces the risk of urinary issues linked to poor hygiene.

7. Small Plastic Pet Storage Containers

If you store kibble, treats, or even toys in plastic containers, you can probably wash those in your dishwasher, too. As long as they're labelled dishwasher-safe, regular sanitizing will help avoid stale smells and harmful residues.

• Remove all pet food and crumbs beforehand

• Place on the top rack or use the bottom rack if sturdy enough

• Allow to dry completely before refilling with food or treats

Bonus Tips for Cleaning Pet Items in the Dishwasher

To make the most of dishwasher-cleaning your pet's items, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a pet-safe detergent—look for unscented and non-toxic formulas

• Run a separate load from human dishes to prevent cross-contamination

• Regularly clean your dishwasher if you use it for pet items often

Final Thoughts

Keeping your pet’s gear clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With the help of your dishwasher, you can easily sanitize many of your everyday items, saving time and giving you peace of mind. Just make sure to check the manufacturer's instructions and avoid washing electronic or delicate items that may degrade under high heat or water pressure.

Clean pet, clean home, happy life!