From Creepy to Squeaky (Clean, That Is)

Other people might go on cleaning binges in the spring, but as we prepare for another long, cold winter around here, I cannot help but try to get our cupboards (especially the dog ones) in order.

I’ve cleaned out the dog drawer, where we keep leashes, prized toys, and some grooming items.

I’ve cleaned out the dog cabinet (in the kitchen), including finally purging old medicines from when Lilly was a puppy (6 years ago).

I went on a sewing binge and repaired all the torn plush toys.

And, I finally got around to hand washing their beyond-creepy toys.

Here is how I did it:

  • Soaked everything in hot, soapy water.
  • Used two bottle brushes I got in the baby aisle at the grocery store.
  • Scrubbed everything like crazy.

Now, had I been in an especially strong germ killing mood, I would have added a little bleach to the water, but I’m prone to bleach-related ruining of clothes … so I did not.

Pretty much everything came clean, except …

Just could NOT get all the grunge from the edges of the nubs on this Orca toy.
Remind me NEVER to buy a yellow dog toy again.

Now that Lilly and Ginko are eating out of some of these toys regularly, I’ll have to step up my hygiene efforts … since they’ve traced some salmonella outbreaks in people to dry dog food (especially in toddler exposure).