How to build a dog wash station with smart storage

Anyone who’s lathered up a pet in their own bathroom or laundry understands why a designated dog-wash area in the backyard is at the top of many homeowners’ wish lists. Bath time with your fur baby can sometimes feel like a workout – splashing water, shedding pelt and flooded floors can make the task more frustrating than fun. The sink or bathtub simply doesn’t cut it and nor does a hose-down under the clothesline! Thankfully, there’s a practical and stylish D.I.Y. solution – a purpose-built preening station with plenty of storage for pet paraphernalia. (Who said you can’t have a nice house with dogs?). Here, you’ll find out just how easy it is to achieve a well-designed, dedicated space for pampering your pooch.

Pick the perfect spot

First, work out the best place outside for ‘pet paradise’. A paved area that’s not too shady or sunny will be comfortable year-round. You can always use a large umbrella or canopy during summer. Make sure you have easy access to a water source like a hose hookup. Drainage is important, too, so set up near a pit grate to prevent water puddling or pooling. To minimise exposure, install the wash station close to an exterior wall. Fur-tastic!

Design the dream day spa

Make a big splash with your furball and turn a heavy-duty waterproof container into a sunken bath tub. Measure the length of your dog before choosing the tub – a 120L container should accommodate a 900mm-long dog. Now you can take your doggie bath tub to the next level by getting it off the ground and into a tabletop made from two timber frames.

Here’s how to do it in five easy steps:

1. Cut 90 x 35mm timber pieces for the outer frame and 70 x 35mm timber pieces for the second frame that will hold the tub from underneath. Pre-drill holes to prep for assembly.

2. Add levelling feet to four 90 x 90mm posts and attach to each corner of the outer frame. These will keep the station level and stable if you’re setting up against an exterior wall where the ground has a slight slope.

3. Attach the second frame to the posts and then put the outer frame in between.

4. For a stylish touch, add spotted gum decking around the perimeter and over the top of the table frame. Trim the top decking so it nestles the tub. Insert the tub.

5. For the steps, place treads, cut to size, over two pre-made stringers, then clad the treads with spotted gum for added flair.

Keep stuff stored close at hand

When you’re wrestling a wet dog during bath time, it’s essential you have what you need nearby. You don’t want your dog bolting during a case of the zoomies while you’ve wandered off looking for the pet brush.

Keep everything you need conveniently corralled in your purpose-built shelves. Closed cabinets hide messier elements, such as pet toys and accessories, while open shelves can be visually appealing. Dogs primarily see shades of blue, yellow and grey, so prioritise these colours when displaying products. The vibrant blue packaging of Purina’s pampering range will help your dog stay engaged during bath time.

Design tip: Build the shelves from form plywood and offset the pigeon holes for a bespoke, geometric look. Add door fronts for concealed cabinetry, then screw the unit into the frame from underneath.

Products for royal grooming

With your dog wash station’s integrated shelving unit stocked with premium pet care, including Purina TOTALCARE Nourishing Shampoo and Medicated Shampoo for Dogs, you’ll never have to worry about using harsh human shampoo on your dog’s sensitive skin again. Human skin is somewhat acidic, while dogs have neutral skin, so sharing your shampoo with pooch could disrupt their natural pH balance, resulting in dry, irritated and damaged skin. Stick to pet-dedicated grooming products formulated with the right pH and containing no mystery ingredients.

Feed them tasty distractions

It’s always treat o’clock when you have your pet’s favourite nibbles close by. Make sure your doggo is rewarded for good bath-time manners with delicious, nutrient-rich snacks. Choose foods specially tailored for your dog’s life stage, such as the Purina SUPERCOAT SMARTBLEND range, for show-ready results. It will also keep them busy and happy while you scrub and rinse. For convenience, decant a small amount of treats into an airtight, washable storage container and place in one of the closed shelves. Keep the rest of the food in its original packaging, stored in a pet food storage container, inside the home.

Grooming tip: Entice your dog into the bath tub by placing snack pellets on the steps leading to the tub, and in the tub. To acclimatise your dog to their new spa environment, only drizzle a little water over their fur, then lather in the shampoo. Repeat this with every bath until they get used to the water.

Want to make doggie bath-time better for both of you?

Check out our wide range so you can create your own a stylish, practical dog wash station. And while you’re at it, take a look at our great range of pet care products.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best location for an outdoor dog wash station?

Choose a paved area that isn’t too sunny or too shady, with easy access to a hose and good drainage. Positioning it near an exterior wall can also help minimise water exposure to other areas.

What can I use as a dog bathtub?

A heavy-duty waterproof storage container works well as a dog bathtub. Select a size that suits your dog’s length, ensuring they can stand comfortably during bath time.

How high should a dog wash station be?

Raising the tub to bench height makes washing easier on your back and helps keep water contained. Adjustable levelling feet can help keep the structure stable on uneven ground.

How can I keep dog wash supplies organised?

Built-in shelving and closed cabinets allow you to store shampoos, brushes, towels and treats close at hand, making bath time quicker and less stressful.

Should I use human shampoo on my dog?

No. Dogs have different skin pH levels to humans, so it’s best to use pet-specific shampoos formulated to be gentle and suitable for their skin.