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How to Wash Dog Harnesses and Leashes
August 8, 2023
-
By
Sophia Grant
There are two ways to walk your dog – you can either use a harness or a collar.
Harnesses are designed so that the pressure is distributed across the chest, making injuries less likely, while collars go around the neck, against your dog’s skin.
At the end of the day, the type you choose depends on the type of dog that you have as well as personal preference.
Picking a Leash For Your Dog
Leashes are just as important as harnesses and dog collars. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to walk your dog safely outside.
While most leashes are six feet long, some are shorter and some are longer. For example, you may want a longer lead if you’re training your dog as it’ll allow you to maintain distance while still having control.
Cleaning Your Dog’s Gear
As a general rule, you want to wash your dog’s gear once every few weeks – that includes the dog’s collar, harness, and leash.
Having said that, you may want to clean them more often if they’re visibly dirty or if your dog has a tendency to roll in mud or swim in water.
How to Wash Dog Collars and Harnesses
There are two ways to wash dog collars and harnesses; you can either put them in the washing machine or wash them by hand.
Machine Washing Your Collars and Harnesses
Depending on the material, you may be able to put the harness or collar in the washing machine. For example, you can run a polyester or nylon dog collar through the wash.
When in doubt, check the label – it’ll tell you whether or not the item is machine washable.
Step 1: Prepare the Harness or Collar
Before you wash a dog harness or collar, close all buckles and straps – that’ll prevent them from getting caught on other things. If needed, you can also use a soft brush to remove any dirt or stains.
Step 2: Place It In a Laundry Bag
Place the harness or collar in a laundry bag. Not only will it prevent snagging but it’ll also prevent them from being thrown around, which can damage both your machine and the harness/collar.
Step 3: Add Detergent
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent to the tub after placing the harness/collar in the washer. If odor is an issue, you can add one cup of white vinegar – it’ll help neutralize the dog smell. Baking soda also works.
Step 4: Run a Wash Cycle
Select a gentle cycle and let the machine run with hot water. If possible, skip the spin cycle – it can damage the metal buckles.
Step 5: Let It Air Dry
After washing, take everything out of the machine and allow them to air dry. Avoid using the dryer – the heat can cause the materials to shrink and warp.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent
- Soft bristle brush
- White vinegar (optional)
- Baking soda (optional)
Never machine wash a leather dog collar – those should be cleaned with a specific dog-safe leather cream.
ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent
Enzymatic detergent deep cleans dog harnesses and leashes to remove odors.
Washing Dog Harnesses and Collars By Hand
Hand washing is much gentler than using the washer and is less likely to damage the items.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent
- Water
- Soft bristle brush
- Baking soda (optional)
- White vinegar (optional)
Step 1:
Fill a large sink with cool water and add half a scoop of ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent to create a soapy solution.
If necessary, you can also add half a cup of baking soda or vinegar for extra deodorizing power.
Step 2:
Put your dog harness or collar in the sink, ensuring they are completely saturated with the detergent mixture.
Let the items sit in the soapy solution for about 10 minutes.
Step 3:
After soaking, scrub the material with a soft bristle brush to remove any excess dirt or debris.
Pay extra attention to the inner layer as dirt and grime tends to accumulate in that area.
Step 4:
Rinse the dog harness or collar thoroughly with fresh water. Continue until all the soap suds are gone.
Step 5:
Let them air dry afterwards in a well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight.
How to Wash Dog Leash Properly
Most dog leashes, with the exception of leather leashes, can be washed with soap and water.
Putting Your Dog’s Leash in the Washing Machine
Nylon, polyester, and cotton leashes can be put in the washing machine. To be sure, however, always check the cleaning instructions before washing.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent
- Laundry bag
- White vinegar (optional)
- Baking soda (optional)
Step 1:
Put the dog leash in a mesh laundry bag and add it to the washing machine.
If you don’t have a laundry bag, you improvise with a clean pillowcase; simply tie off the end with an elastic.
Step 2:
Measure one scoop of ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent and add it directly to the tub.
You can also add white vinegar or baking soda if there’s a noticeable odor.
Step 3:
Run a delicate wash cycle with hot water.
Step 4:
After washing, let the dog leash air dry in a well ventilated space, or outdoors. Avoid using the dryer.
While it’s not recommended that you wash leashes with other items, you can put in a few towels to help balance the load.
Washing Your Dog Leash By Hand
Dog leashes can also be washed by hand in a sink.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent
- Water
- Baking soda (optional)
- White vinegar (optional)
Step 1:
Prepare a bath by filling a bowl or sink with warm water.
Add some ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent and agitate the water with your hands to dissolve the powder.
Step 2:
Place the leash in the sink and let it sit in the soapy water for at least 10 minutes, longer if it’s excessively dirty.
You can add baking soda or white vinegar to the mixture if you want extra deodorizing power.
Step 3:
Rub the leash against itself to remove any remaining dirt or oils, then rinse it under running water.
Continue until there are no more soap suds and the water runs clear.
Step 4:
Let the dog leash dry naturally in a well ventilated area. Do not use the dryer.
Other Tips
Here are a few other things to keep in mind about your dog’s harness, collar, and leash.
- Always inspect the harness, collar, or leash for damage before washing
- Don’t leave them in the sun for prolonged periods as it can damage the material
- Consider washing their harness or collar together with their leash at the same time
- Make sure everything is thoroughly dried before using them again
- You can run a towel along the length of a leash to help it dry faster
- The same dog shampoo that you use to bathe your dog can also be used to wash their gear
Washing Your Dog’s Leash, Collar, and Harness – FAQs
Can you wash your dog’s leash and collar with dish soap?
You can wash your dog’s gear with dish soap in a pinch, however, it won’t be as effective as ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent, which is formulated to dissolve dirt, sweat, and oils.
What’s the best way to clean your dog’s leather collars?
We recommend using Saddle Soap or a gentle leather conditioner. Avoid using soap and water as it can damage the leather material.
Should you wash your dog’s gear with cold water or hot water?
It’s best to use hot water as the heat will help remove stubborn residues.
Can you wash collars and harnesses with dog shampoo?
Yes, you can wash your dog’s collars and harnesses with dog shampoo. However, it may not be as effective as using ACTIVE Pet Laundry Detergent.
Is it better to hand wash dog leashes?
Hand washing is more gentle and is less likely to damage your leashes. Having said that, it’s perfectly fine to put them in the washing machine as long as you use a laundry bag.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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