How to clean a smelly dog collar?
How to Clean a Dog Collar That Smells (Without Ruining It)
Dog collars go through a lot, dirt, mud, water, oils, and everything your dog rolls in.
Whether you have a personalized embroidered dog collar or a classic nylon style, regular cleaning keeps it fresh, safe, and long-lasting.
Dog collars can become stinky over time as they accumulate dead skin, oils, bacteria, and more simply from everyday wear, plus dirt, muddy water, skunk spray, or whatever else your dog has been rolling around in. To get rid of the smell, you have to wash away all the odor-causing substances that have taken up residence on your dog’s collar.
How to clean a smelly dog collar by hand
Follow these steps to wash smelly dog collars made of polyester, nylon, and other synthetic materials. You can even use this method for embroidered dog collars or velvet dog collars!
- Remove all the tags from your dog’s collar before cleaning.
- Fill a bowl with warm water and a little cleaner. You can add a couple teaspoons of baking soda, some mild hand soap, vinegar, or a little dog shampoo. Let the collar soak for 10 minutes or so.
- After soaking, you can clean the collar more deeply by scrubbing it with a toothbrush or washcloth. This step is optional, but it’s a good idea if the collar is stained or is very smelly.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to wash away all the residual soap and smell-making particles.
- Lay flat on a towel to dry or hang to air dry.
Can I wash a dog collar in the washing machine?
Dog collars made of nylon or polyester can generally be washed in the washing machine.
Yes! Our nylon dog collars or colorful printed dog collars can be washed in the washing machine.
Place the dog collar in a mesh laundry bag to protect it and the other items you’re washing. If possible, use a fragrance-free detergent, which is less likely to irritate your dog’s skin.
Don’t dry the dog collar in the dryer – as above, lay flat on a towel or hang to air dry instead.
When It’s Time to Replace a Dog Collar
If your dog’s collar is older, heavily worn, or permanently smelly, it may be time to upgrade to a durable personalized dog collar designed for everyday adventures.
- Fraying edges
- Lingering odor
- Loose stitching
- Or if you just want a refresh!
If you’re ready for a fresh start, explore our collection of bright and colorful dog collars, including custom embroidered dog collars designed to stay bright, bold, and washable.