dog wash station maintenance tips: keep it clean & running smoothly

If you’ve invested in a self-serve dog wash station or commercial dog wash station, you already know it’s a smart, low-labor amenity. But like any high-traffic feature, a little maintenance goes a long way.

We’re Kate & Pete, and we’ve built Puppered dog washing stations to be as hands-off as possible. But we’ve also worked in enough pet spaces to know that a clean, functioning wash station doesn’t just keep customers happy—it protects your investment and your reputation.

Here’s everything you need to know to keep your Puppered dog wash in top shape.

daily, weekly & monthly maintenance tasks
While usage may vary depending on your location, here’s a general maintenance cadence that works for most operators:

daily:
✓ quick wipe-down of surfaces (tub walls, floor area)
✓ check soap levels and refill if needed
✓ empty hair traps if your location sees high usage

weekly:
✓ deep clean the tub with a non-abrasive cleaner
✓ inspect hoses, sprayers, and seals for wear
✓ clean and check the coin/token/card reader (if installed)

monthly:
✓ check for clogs in drainage
✓ test water temperature controls
✓ inspect branded graphics for peeling or damage

Need help? We offer easy access to replacement parts, decals, and soap refills—right from the Puppered shop.

 

how to clean the tub (the right way)

You don’t need harsh chemicals, matted hair dog conditioner, or power tools to keep your Puppered spotless.

what to use:
• mild, non-abrasive cleanser (our Tub Scrub soap does the work for you)
• soft cloth or sponge
• water hose or spray nozzle

avoid:
• bleach or ammonia
• abrasive scrubbers
• high-pressure power washers

Tip: Our tubs are designed with smooth, rounded corners—so you’ll never deal with grime buildup in hard-to-reach places.

 

keep soaps stocked

Your dog wash experience is only as good as the soaps you provide. That’s why we offer four professionally formulated, plant-based options:

• apple cream shampoo + apple cream conditioner – crowd-pleaser with a fresh scent
• tea tree shampoo – natural flea and tick defense
• tub scrub – keeps the tub fresh between washes

These products are safe, hypoallergenic, and designed to work seamlessly with Puppered dog wash stations. And yes—they’re all available in bulk.

 

shop soap refills

troubleshooting tips
Even the best machines need a checkup once in a while. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

problem: water isn’t spraying
try: check hose connections and ensure the nozzle isn’t clogged

problem: card reader isn’t working
try: clean the reader slot and restart the unit

problem: tub not draining
try: clear the hair trap and check for blockage in the drainage line

Still stuck? Reach out to our customer service team. We respond quickly and offer real-time support when you need it.

 

how puppered supports you

When you buy a Puppered dog wash, you’re not just getting equipment—you’re getting a partner.

We offer:
✓ lifetime customer support
✓ easy-access replacement parts
✓ soap reordering reminders
✓ troubleshooting guides & how-to videos
✓ custom graphics and decal kits

Whether you’re managing one location or five, we’re here to make upkeep simple and stress-free.

 

keep it clean, keep it running

A well-maintained wash station means happy customers, better performance, and stronger long-term ROI. And with a little routine care, your Puppered dog wash will stay clean, functional, and looking great for years to come.

Have maintenance questions? Need to place a parts or soap order? We’re just a call or email away.  Reach out to us directly at [email protected] or browse our shop to learn more.

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