A little regular care keeps any collar looking fresh. Here's a simple routine for PU leather collars. Always check any care instructions supplied with your collar first, as they take priority over general advice.
What you'll need
- A soft cloth
- Lukewarm water
- A small amount of mild soap
- A dry towel
Step by step
- Wipe off loose dirt. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove mud and dust.
- Use a little mild soap. Dampen the cloth with soapy water. Don't soak the collar.
- Wipe the surface. Work gently along the collar, including the underside where it touches your dog's neck.
- Wipe clean. Use a cloth dampened with plain water to remove soap residue.
- Dry naturally. Pat dry with a towel and leave the collar to air dry, away from direct heat like radiators or a hairdryer.
The engraved plate or buckle
Wipe metal parts with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing on engraved text, as abrasive materials can dull the surface.
What to avoid
- Harsh chemicals or strong cleaners
- Soaking the collar for long periods
- Direct heat
- Abrasive scrubbers
How often?
Give it a quick wipe after muddy or wet walks, and a proper clean every few weeks. Regular checks are also a chance to look for wear. See how often to replace a dog collar.
Have a spare
If a collar is wet or drying, a spare lets you swap without a gap in identification. Many owners keep a second collar for this.
A few extra care tips
- Deal with mud quickly. Wipe it off before it dries into the surface.
- Rinse after salt or chlorine. Salt and chlorine can dry out materials. Rinse in fresh water and dry naturally.
- Keep it away from heat. Radiators, hot cars and hair dryers can affect the material.
- Store it flat or hung up. Avoid leaving it crumpled in a damp bag.
- Rotate collars. If you have a spare, alternate them so each one has time to dry.
Cleaning the underside and edges
The part that touches your dog's neck collects oils and dirt. Wipe it gently each time you clean. Pay attention to the edges and around the buckle, where grime tends to build.
What about odours?
If the collar smells, a gentle wipe with mild soapy water may help. Then rinse and let it dry completely. Avoid strong perfumes or chemical sprays, which can irritate your dog's skin.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put it in the washing machine?
Check the care instructions first. Most owners hand-clean collars, since machine washing can damage hardware and materials.
Can I use baby wipes?
Some owners do for quick clean-ups. Check for fragrances that could bother your dog, and rinse if unsure.
How do I clean the engraved plate?
Wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry it. Avoid abrasive pads.
How often should I clean the collar?
A quick wipe after messy walks, and a proper clean every few weeks.
What if the collar gets damaged?
Stop using it and replace it. See how often to replace a dog collar.
Browse
See the Heritage and Terra collars, or the full collection.
