Caring for your collar is easy peasy!
Let’s be real—your dog’s collar is going to get dirty. Whether it’s a light dusting of dirt or a full-on mud puddle situation (we’ve all seen those videos… oh dear), knowing how to clean a dog collar properly keeps it looking bold and smelling fresh.
Good news: cleaning your Atomic Collar is easy. Most of our collars can be tossed right into the washing machine on a regular or delicate cycle.
Yes—even the silks. We’ve tested it. You’re good.
After washing, lay flat or hang to dry. Once it’s dry, gear your pup back up and let the adventures continue.
Materials & how to care for them:
Polyester dog collars
Polyester is a synthetic fiber. Found as straight polyester or often mixed with cotton in clothing. It’s highly durable, water-resistant, and stain-resistant—aka perfect for dogs who live for mud, water, and chaos. Polyester absorbs less than 1/% of moisture which makes it quick drying!
Best for: active, messy, adventure-loving dogs
Care: Machine wash, regular or delicate cycle. Hang or lay flat to dry.
Silk dog collars
Silk is a natural protein fiber with a smooth, soft texture (luxury vibes activated). It’s one of the strongest natural fibers when dry—but it does absorb moisture.
Best for: stylish pups, lower-mess lifestyles
Heads up: Can hold odor if frequently wet
Care: Machine wash gentle cycle or handwash, lay flat to dry.
Viscose (Rayon) Dog Collars
Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber designed to mimic natural materials like cotton or silk.
Best for: stylish & adventurous pups
Heads up: Absorbs & releases moisture readily – which could lend toward a smellier collar
Care: Handwash, lay flat to dry, don’t wring!
Acrylic Dog Collars
Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that is lightweight, warm and soft, classically an alternative to wool. Frequently found in sweater & scarves.
Best for: adventurous, stylish & sassy pups
Care: Handwash, lay flat to dry, don’t wring!
Get rid of "DA FUNK"
There may be times when your dog’s collar gains “da funk” and smells like he’s been living in the swamps with the creature from the black lagoon. Adorable, but the stink is nearly enough to drive you from home.
If you haven’t, give the collar a solid washing. Da funk still present?
Try:
— a wash with baking soda
— a rinse with white vinegar (don’t mix them or there will be a volcano in your washer…)
— sun and air dry
— a laundry additive – try one for animal enzymes
If these don’t work, then its time to retire it to live in the garage for lake outings. Or get a new collar!
Even the best collars don’t last forever. Over time, dirt may stop washing out (especially on lighter colors), small snags can turn into fraying, and daily wear will eventually take its toll.
If your collar is starting to look tired, it might be time for a refresh.
Don’t Toss It—Recycle It ♻️
Don’t throw your old collar in the trash!
Send it back to us at hello@atomiccollars.com and we’ll recycle the hardware into a brand new Atomic Collar.
(If the hardware is beyond saving, it may be time for a full replacement—but we’ll let you know!)
Since you’re here, you might as well take a gander at getting a new collar!