Quick answer
Wash your silicone travel bowl with warm soapy water after each use, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry completely before collapsing to prevent mold and odors.
Why silicone bowls need special care
Silicone is non-porous and resists bacteria better than plastic, but its collapsible design creates hidden crevices where food debris and moisture can get trapped. If you skip proper drying, you may notice a musty smell or slimy film inside the folds.
The Petmate Silicone Travel Bowl Duo collapses to less than 2 inches, making it easy to pack. But that same space-saving feature means you need to clean and dry each bowl thoroughly before storing them in the vinyl-lined canvas pouch.
How to clean your silicone travel bowl in 4 steps
- Rinse and scrub immediately after use: Rinse the bowl with warm water to remove loose food. Apply a drop of mild dish soap to a soft sponge and scrub the entire surface, including the bottom and the outer rim. Pay extra attention to the fold lines where residue collects. Don't use abrasive scrubbers—they can scratch silicone and create rough spots that trap bacteria.
- Rinse thoroughly and check for soap residue: Rinse the bowl under running warm water until no suds remain. Run your finger along the folds to feel for any slippery soap film. Silicone can hold onto soap if you rush this step. Leftover soap can irritate your pet's stomach, so rinse until the water runs clear and the bowl feels clean to the touch.
- Air-dry completely before collapsing: Shake off excess water and set the bowl upright on a dish rack or clean towel. Let it air-dry for at least an hour. If you're in a hurry, pat it dry with a lint-free cloth, then leave it open for 10 more minutes. Never collapse or store a damp bowl—moisture trapped in the folds is the main cause of mold and odors.
- Sanitize weekly for deep clean: Once a week, soak the bowl in a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts warm water for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and dry as usual. This removes any lingering smells and kills bacteria without harsh chemicals. Avoid bleach or strong cleaners—they can degrade silicone over time and leave harmful residues.
Product spotlight
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Petmate Silicone Travel Bowl Duo: The Petmate Silicone Travel Bowl Duo collapses to less than 2 inches and is secured in a vinyl-lined canvas pouch. The compact design makes it travel-friendly, but you must dry the bowls completely before collapsing them to avoid moisture buildup inside the pouch.
Petmate Silicone Travel Bowl Duo
