Sound familiar? Your dog comes in from a rainy walk or a backyard mud romp looking like they just finished a Tough Mudder. And the last thing you want is to have to scrub the house from top to bottom every single day. Enter the built-in pet washing station—a game-changing home improvement that makes it easier than ever to keep your pet (and your house) clean.
Once a luxury feature found only in custom homes, pet washing stations are becoming an increasingly popular upgrade in mudrooms, laundry rooms, and garages in even the humblest homes. If you’re considering adding one, here’s everything you need to know about why they’re a must-have, how to design one, and what to include.
Why Add a Pet Washing Station?
Convenience
No more back-breaking baths in the tub or chasing a wet dog through the house. A pet washing station makes cleaning your furry friend of any size quick and easy—wherever in the home is easiest for you.
Cleaner Home
Isolating dirty pets in a designated area helps keep dirt, mud, allergens, and fur from spreading throughout your home. It’s especially useful during rainy or snowy seasons when paws are constantly tracking in grime.
Increased Home Value
Like any smart built-in, a pet washing station appeals to future buyers—especially fellow pet lovers. It can be a standout feature in a listing and adds functional luxury to your home.
Multi-Purpose Use
These stations aren’t just for pets. Use them for rinsing off muddy boots, washing garden tools, cleaning up after messy craft projects, or even soaking laundry. Think of it as a mini-utility sink with superpowers.
Where to Build It
Mudroom
The most common location, and for good reason. Mudrooms are transition zones between outside and inside, making them the perfect place to stop dirt at the door. Bonus: many mudrooms are already plumbed or close to laundry appliances, making installation easier.
Laundry Room
If your laundry room is already set up for water access and drainage, it may be the most efficient location. Plus, you can toss towels and dog beds straight into the wash.
Garage
For those with limited indoor space, garages make a great spot—especially if your pet tends to get really messy. You can keep the mud, fur, and chaos outside your main living area.
Design Considerations
Size & Height
The size of your pet (or pets) will determine the best height and footprint for your washing station.
- Small Dogs & Cats: A raised basin (like a deep utility sink) is easier on your back.
- Medium to Large Dogs: A walk-in tiled shower-style stall with a handheld sprayer works best.
- Multi-Pet Homes: Consider a hybrid design—slightly elevated but with steps or a ramp for accessibility.
A good rule of thumb is to make it wide enough for your pet to comfortably turn around, and deep enough to minimize splash.
Plumbing Essentials
You’ll want access to hot and cold water, not just a hose bib. Pets, like people, prefer warm water baths. A mixing valve or standard shower control setup is ideal.
Don’t forget proper drainage—install a sloped base that leads to a floor drain or dedicated line, with a hair trap to catch fur before it clogs your plumbing.
Materials That Can Handle Mess
Your washing station should be as durable as it is adorable.
- Tile or Waterproof Panels: Choose easy-to-clean, water-resistant materials like ceramic tile, vinyl wall panels, or sealed concrete.
- Non-Slip Flooring: Whether it’s tile, rubber, or textured acrylic, make sure the base is safe for wet paws and feet.
- Stainless Steel Fixtures: Durable and rust-resistant, perfect for faucets, sprayers, and hose attachments.
Don’t forget a waterproof backsplash and easy-to-clean surfaces around the station. You’ll thank yourself later.
Helpful Extras
Handheld Sprayer
A flexible hose sprayer (like those used in showers or utility sinks) makes it much easier to rinse hard-to-reach spots and control the water flow.
Built-In Shelving or Niches
Add recessed shelves or wall-mounted organizers to store shampoo, brushes, towels, and other pet-care items within reach.
Step or Ramp
Especially for larger dogs, a built-in ramp or removable step helps them enter and exit safely without lifting.
Drying Area
Install hooks for towels, add a drying mat, or even include a built-in blow dryer if you really want to pamper your pup.
Style That Matches Your Home
Just because it’s practical doesn’t mean it can’t be beautiful. Match the station’s materials and style to the rest of your mudroom or laundry room for a seamless look.
- Use cabinetry to conceal supplies and maintain a tidy feel.
- Coordinate tile, hardware, and fixtures with the rest of your home.
- Add a cute hook with your pet’s name or a stylish towel bar to personalize the space.
- Include cute or cheeky art of your pet at their dirtiest for a laugh
Final Thoughts
If you’re already considering a mudroom renovation or laundry room upgrade, adding a built-in pet washing station is an easy addition. It simplifies one of the messiest parts of pet ownership, adds function and style to your space, and keeps your home cleaner.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or working with a contractor, designing a custom station tailored to your pet’s needs is an investment you’ll appreciate every rainy day, muddy trail walk, or post-beach adventure.
Because let’s face it—clean pets mean cleaner homes, and that’s a win for everyone.
