How to Disinfect Dog Bowls Safely

Empty the bowl, then wash it with warm water and dish soap, scrubbing the inside, rim, folds, and any areas where food or saliva can collect. Rinse away the soap before disinfecting, because a disinfectant works best on a clean surface rather than through leftover food or grime.

Use a disinfectant whose label permits use on food-contact surfaces, and follow its directions for dilution, contact time, rinsing, and ventilation; never mix cleaning chemicals. If you use a dishwasher instead, make sure the bowl’s manufacturer says it is dishwasher-safe, and use a sanitizing cycle when one is available.

After the required contact time, rinse the bowl as directed on the disinfectant label so no cleaning residue remains where your dog will eat or drink. Let the bowl dry completely before you refill it or put it away, paying extra attention to seams and folds that can hold moisture.

Wash food bowls after meals and refresh and wash water bowls daily; disinfect them more often when a dog is sick, multiple pets share bowls, or a bowl has been left dirty. For our Collapsible Silicone Dog & Cat Travel Bowl, unfold it fully to clean the creases, then let it dry before folding it for storage.