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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 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.
There isn't really a one-size-fits-all answer here — it depends on your pup, your routine, and how much action that pad sees day to day. A few quick rules of thumb:
Heavy use (multiple wees a day, a young pup in potty training, or a senior who needs frequent backup): wash every day or every other day.
Moderate use: every 2–3 days is usually fine, as long as it isn't starting to pong.
Light use (a backup pad that catches the occasional accident): wash when soiled or when it starts to smell.
Honestly, your nose is the best guide. If you walk past and catch a whiff, it's wash time! And if you're rotating between multiple pads (which we highly recommend), it's much easier to keep one in use while another is in the wash.
Just like humans, dogs need to go to the bathroom several times a day, meaning their reusable pad will need regular washing to keep it bacteria and odor free. Heavily soiled pads or those in heavy rotation should be washed every 1–2 days, while lighter use may be fine with less frequent washing depending on 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 a mild, pet-safe laundry detergent free from harsh chemicals, as a mild detergent helps prevent buildup and lowers the risk of skin irritation. Make sure to fully ring out the pad before hanging it out to dry.
Washable pads should be washed separately from other laundry items to avoid contamination. If using a washing machine, first rinse urine-soaked or soiled pads in cold water, then pre-treat stubborn odors with a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner before washing. Run pads on a cycle at a temperature up to 90°F / 30°C with laundry detergent, and use an extra rinse cycle to help remove residue.
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!
Drying is just as important as washing when it comes to keeping your pad in tip-top shape. Done right, it preserves the waterproof backing, the absorbent layers and that all-important freshness.
Line drying is best. Hang the pad outside in the sun to use its natural antibacterial properties, or allow it to dry over a clothes rail. Sunlight can actually help with any additional odor and neutralize any unpleasant pongs that may still be lingering after washing.
Lay flat or hang? Either works, but laying flat helps larger pads keep their shape.
Stuck indoors? A well-ventilated room with good airflow does the job — just make sure the pad is fully dry before it goes back into use, as any dampness can lead to mildew.
Tumble dryer. A tumble dryer can be used on a very low setting if quicker drying is needed, but avoid high heat as it can damage the pad's waterproof backing over time. Air drying is always gentler for long-term wear.
Sometimes you may find that your pup couldn't hold it and has gone number two on their pee pad. The best thing to do is pick up and dispose of the stool if you can. You can seal the waste in a biodegradable or plastic bag to help contain odors. If the stool is hard and firm there shouldn't be too much of an issue; you may just want to wipe the pad or spray it with an odor neutralizer for good measure. Prompt cleanup also helps protect the floor underneath the potty area from stains and moisture.
If the stool is of a softer consistency it can be harder to dispose of. If you can, remove and dispose of as much of the poo as you can, then if the pad is heavily soiled, rinse it in a bucket of cold water before treating the stains with a hose or by hand, doing as much as you can to remove the stains before popping it in for a wash cycle.
Be sure to use a bleach-free disinfectant when cleaning these stains, as bleach and strong chemicals can be very dangerous and irritating to your dog.
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. Good ventilation in the potty area also helps reduce lingering smells.
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!
Charcoal filters — Activated charcoal filters can absorb odors in pet areas and help freshen the air around the pad, especially handy if your pup has a dedicated potty corner indoors.
Even the best pads don't last forever, and there comes a time when your trusty potty pad needs to retire. Keep an eye out for these signs that it's time for a fresh one:
The pad takes longer to absorb than it used to, or leaves wet spots sitting on the surface.
The waterproof backing feels stiff, flaky, or starts to peel — that's the layer that protects your floors.
Persistent odor that no amount of washing, vinegar or baking soda can shift.
Visible thinning, holes, or fraying around the edges.
With proper care, Potty Buddy pads are built to last through plenty of wash cycles — but every pad has its day, and swapping out a tired one keeps your floors properly protected.
When it comes to Potty Buddy's Reusable Potty Pads, our pads are made of ultra-absorbent, durable materials designed to absorb liquid efficiently and stand up to repeated washing. Washed correctly, without the use of corrosive products, these pads can last for ages!
Our puppy pads also feature a waterproof backing that helps prevent leaks and protect your floors, while the rest of the design works to trap odors for a more mess-free toilet experience — though over time, you may need to replace them if wear starts to affect absorption or odor control.
Yes, as long as it's mild, free from bleach, and ideally fragrance-free if your dog has sensitive skin. Skip anything with harsh chemicals or heavy perfumes — those can irritate your pup and clog up the pad's absorbent fibers over time.
Our Potty Pads are also incredibly versatile; use them in your dog's crate, in the car, under their food and water bowls, as well as any other area where you want to contain your pup's mess.
And that's not all. These pee pads also work to protect the planet too, with these numbers showing just how much of an impact reusable potty pads can have:
495 Tons of Waste Prevented — through the use of our reusable pads, our customers have prevented over 12 million disposable pads from ending up in landfill.
$30/month Average Savings — we are not a one-trick-wonder: our pads can be reused for years to help with pet expenses.
So, do you think reusable pee pads could be good for you and your dog? Come and discover why other pet parents are so excited about Potty Buddy Reusable Pads by grabbing a pack of your own today!
See How Dog Owners Are Using These Leak-Free Potty Pads to Keep Their Homes Clean and Pups Happy
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Over 100,000 Dog Owners Saved Money With Potty Buddy™
The washable pee pads that absorb anything your dog throws at them, while keeping your floors and furniture stain-free.
✅ Super Absorbent and Leak-Proof
✅ Great for Potty Training
✅ Ideal for Puppies and Older Dogs
✅ Washable and Reusable For Years
✅ Save over $400/year by not buying disposables
-60 Day Money Back Guarantee-
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-Diana D.
These pads are a life saver for my kitchen floor and bedroom carpet! Just ordered 2 more!
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