Caring for your pet accessories

Pet apparel and accessories are a great way to keep your furry friend clean, comfortable, entertained, and stylish. But with all the wear and tear they put their accessories through, it's important to know how to properly care for them so you and your pet get the most out of them.

Firstly Read the product care label, if there is one present on your pet gear. This is the most important step, as it will tell you how to wash and dry the garment properly. Some materials, such as wool, leather and cashmere, require special care.

Here are some tips on how to keep your pet's clothes looking and feeling their best:

• Wash pet apparel separately: This is especially important if you have other pets in the household. Washing pet clothes with your own clothes can transfer dirt, dander, and other allergens. Also the last thing you want is fur transfering to your other items, more than normal that is...
• Jackets and coats: Machine wash in cold water on the gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener. Air dry, preferably flat to avoid stretching out of shape. During shedding seasons, using a lint roller or gentle brush can help remove excess hair and fur before being washed.
• Harnesses, leads and collars: Machine wash in cold water on the gentle cycle. Use a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener. Air dry to avoid them distorting.
• Toys: These go through a lot! Regular cleaning is key. Plush toys usually can be washed in the washing machine on a gentle cycle (check the label first!). Most quality rubber toys can be rinsed or washed in the dishwasher and air dried.
• Beds: Most pet bed covers are removable and machine washable. Wash them regularly and separate to other items, especially after accidents or during shedding seasons. In the case of a non-removable pet bed cover, these usually can be rinsed off or scrubbed with a mild detergent for stubborn stains. Most beds will come with care instructions and is best to follow these.
• Food and Water Bowls: These should be washed daily with warm soapy water. Stainless steel bowls are normally dishwasher safe, but be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions. 

The same care should be taken when drying your pets accessories as you would your own clothing. We recommend air drying pet accessories. Drying in the sun can be beneficial as it has natural disinfecting properties, although some products may not recommend this on the care label. As usual, it is best to follow the manufacturers care instructions.

Pro-Tips for Long-lasting Pet Accessories:

• Rotate Toys: Don't overwhelm your pet with all their toys at once. Rotate them every few days to keep playtime exciting and prevent boredom-induced destruction.
• Choose Durable Materials: Invest in well-made toys and beds that can withstand enthusiastic play.
• Supervise Playtime: Especially with young pets, keep an eye on them during playtime to prevent them from ingesting pieces of broken toys.
• Repair When Possible: A ripped seam or a loose button doesn't mean the end for a beloved accessory. With a little sewing know-how, you can extend the life of your pet's favorite things. Also it is important to know when to say goodbye. Damaged toys and accessories that can't be fixed should be disposed off to avoid injury to your beloved pet.

Your pet accessories should be dried before storing, particularly for an extended timeframe. Some people have setup specific pet accessories storage areas, although anywhere that is indoors, dry and not in direct sunlight will suffice. 

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your pet's accessories stay clean, safe, and enjoyable for longer. Remember, a happy pet is a pet with a clean and comfy environment – and that includes their favorite things!