Your pet’s bowl is probably dirtier than you think.
In fact, it’s the the fourth germiest thing in your house. So, if you aren’t scrubbing it every day with hot soapy water, you aren’t cleaning it enough.
“You wouldn’t leave food out for your family and children for 12 hours and think it’s OK to eat it.” Dr Jerry Klein, an emergency and critical care veterinarian in Chicago and chief veterinary officer for the American Kennel Club told The Kitchn.
How to clean your pet’s bowl properly
The bowl should be washed every day with hot soapy water and sanitised once a week. You can do this in the dishwasher; or, if you don’t have a dishwasher, soak the bowl or plate in a solution of 1 tablespoon household bleach to 5 litres of water. Rinse with cool water and allow to air dry.
This article originally appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.