* Material: Most guinea pig water bottles are made of plastic, which can warp or melt under the high heat of a dishwasher. This can damage the bottle and make it unsafe for your guinea pig to use.
* Metal parts: Many bottles have metal components like the drinking spout or the attachment mechanism, which can rust or corrode in the dishwasher.
* Cleaning agents: Dishwashing detergents can leave a residue on the bottle that could be harmful to your guinea pig.
Instead of the dishwasher, here's how to clean a guinea pig water bottle safely:
1. Disassemble: Take apart the bottle and remove any replaceable parts (spout, ball, etc.).
2. Soak: Soak the bottle and its parts in warm, soapy water for about 30 minutes.
3. Scrub: Use a bottle brush or a soft sponge to scrub away any dirt or debris.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse everything very well with clean water to remove any soap residue.
5. Dry completely: Air dry all parts of the bottle before reassembling and placing it back in the cage.
Pro Tip: You can also boil the bottle and its parts for 5-10 minutes to sterilize them. Just make sure to let everything cool down completely before using.