As modern pet parents, we are all about finding sustainable options when caring for our pets. Cats and dogs can produce a lot of waste, more than we think, and so as a pet parent it is our job to find the more eco-friendly options when and where we can.
Reusable puppy pee pads have become a firm favorite of pup parents across the world, offering a more sustainable and wallet-friendly alternative to flimsy disposable pads. Whether you are using potty training pee pads for puppies or need pads for a senior or ill dog, reusable pads are a great choice with their superior absorption, odor control technology and providing greater peace of mind for dog owners.We are going to take you through how to clean and care for your washable pee pads, including how to reduce odor and keep your pad in the best condition for maximum longevity.
Puppy Pee Pad Washing Instructions
Just like humans, dogs need to go to the bathroom several times a day, meaning their reusable puppy pee pad will need regular washing to keep it bacteria and odor free. We would recommend giving your reusable pads a quick wash every day as part of your routine, however this can vary depending on the level of soiling and odor.
Here is our handy step by step guide to washing and maintaining your reusable dog pee pad:
- If washing by hand, you will want to mix some warm water with laundry detergent, ensuring that the detergent doesn't contain bleach - as this can be extremely irritating to a dog's skin and system. Make sure to fully ring out the pad before hanging it out to dry.
- If using a washing machine, run urine soaked pads on a cycle at a temperature up to 90° F / 30° C with laundry detergent. For tougher stains and odors, wash with hot water up to 140° F / 60° C. If tackling resistant stains or odors, oxygen-based bleach (such as OxiClean or Clorox for Colors) is recommended.
- When washing the pee pad, it can be tempting to add extra fabric softeners to make it smell nice. However, a fabric softener will make it more difficult for the surface to absorb pee and can break down the waterproof underside of the pad, reducing the effectiveness and lifespan of the pad. Instead, use a little vinegar to freshen up the pads - trust us, it won't make your pad smell funky!
- When it comes to animals, natural is always the best way, and so the best way to dry your puppy pad is by natural sunlight. Hang the pad outside in the sun or allow it to dry over a clothes rail.
- A tumble dryer can be used on a very low or medium setting if quicker drying is needed, however it is advised not to do this regularly as dryers can cause damage to the structure and effectiveness of the pad. Sunlight can actually help with any additional odor and neutralize any unpleasant pongs that may still be lingering after washing.
Puppy Pee Pad odor control
One of the biggest issues when it comes to pee pads can be odor. The buildup of ammonia from puppy pee can create quite a strong and unpleasant smell, and so knowing how to neutralize these odors is a helpful trick to know.
There are a few home remedies you can try to help neutralize odors on your puppy's pee pad:
- Vinegar - Adding a tablespoon of vinegar to the laundry detergent when washing your dog's pee pad can be very effective in neutralizing lingering odors. Vinegar can also be used in the home as a dog-safe disinfectant and odor neutralizing spray.
- Baking soda - Baking soda can be an excellent odor repellent pre-soak for your pee pads. Mix 1 cup of baking soda with 4 cups of boiling water, followed by some cooler water. You can then soak the pee pads for 2-4 hours in this mixture, after which you can pop the pads on for a wash cycle and et voilà…goodbye nasty smells!