How to Clean and Maintain a Silicone Dog Bowl

Quick answer

Clean your silicone dog bowl daily with warm soapy water and give it a weekly deep clean to prevent slime and odors. Silicone is non-porous and dishwasher-safe, making maintenance easy.

Step-by-step cleaning routine

1. Rinse immediately after use: Empty leftover water or food and rinse the bowl under warm running water. This removes loose particles before they dry or stick. Don't let the bowl sit dirty for hours — dried food is harder to remove.
2. Wash with warm soapy water: Use a soft sponge or cloth with mild dish soap and warm water. Scrub all surfaces, including the rim and bottom. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Check for trapped food in the carabineer slot if your bowl has one.
3. Deep clean weekly with vinegar or baking soda: Fill the bowl with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water, or sprinkle baking soda inside and scrub with a damp sponge. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse well. This removes odors and biofilm. Avoid using bleach — it can degrade silicone over time.
4. Air dry completely before storing: Shake off excess water and place the bowl upside down on a drying rack. Make sure it's fully dry before collapsing or storing, as moisture trapped in folds can cause mold. Silicone dries fast, but check the underside and carabineer area for trapped water.
5. Sanitize in the dishwasher occasionally: Place the bowl on the top rack of the dishwasher for a thorough clean. Use a regular cycle with heated drying. Silicone is dishwasher-safe and tolerates high heat well. If your bowl has a carabineer, remove it before the dishwasher cycle to prevent damage.

Product spotlight

• Free Spirit Silicone Dog Bowl: Free Spirit Silicone Dog Bowl has a 12oz capacity and includes a carabineer for attaching to a belt, backpack, or purse. Its portable design means you'll likely use it on the go, so quick cleaning between outings is essential to prevent bacteria from building up in the folds.