How to Build a DIY Dog Washing Station

Give your dog the royal treatment at home with a DIY dog washing station. Building your own dog washing station allows you to bathe your pup comfortably without the stress of going to a groomer. With a few simple materials and tools, you can create a custom washing station for scrubbing and rinsing your dog.

Choose a Location for the Washing Station

When deciding where to build your DIY dog washing station, consider these factors:

Accessibility – Pick a spot that is easy for you and your dog to get to. Having a washing station near doors or in the garage makes bath time less of a hassle.
Drainage – You’ll need somewhere for the dirty water and suds to go. An outdoor area or a spot near a floor drain inside works best.
Splash zone – Bathing a dog gets messy, so be mindful of potential overspray. Avoid placing the tub right next to walls or under low-hanging fixtures.
Privacy – Your pup may feel more relaxed in an enclosed room versus out in the open. But make sure the space has adequate ventilation too.
Convenience – Situate the washing station near a water source like an outdoor spigot or indoor plumbing. This saves you from having to haul water to and from each bath.

An outdoor location like a patio, mudroom, garage or basement works well for containing the wet mess that comes with washing dogs. Just be sure to account for weather if placing the station outside.

Choose a Tub or Basin for Washing Your Dog

The tub or basin will be the main component of your DIY dog washing station. This is what contains the water and dog during bath time. Consider the size of your dog when picking a tub. Small breeds only require a small plastic basin while large dogs need an entire bathtub to fit comfortably.

Here are some tub and basin options to consider:

Plastic storage tubs – These come in many sizes and heights perfect for small and medium dogs. Look for sturdy tubs that won’t bend or flex when full of water.
Baby bath tubs – The molded shape helps keep your dog enclosed and are sized right for tiny pups.
Wheelbarrows – A classic wheelbarrow makes a great washing tub for medium and large breed dogs.
Kiddie pools – For big dogs, a plastic kiddie pool allows them to sit and move around during their bath.
Bathtubs – From stand-alone clawfoot tubs to a regular bath/shower combo, these allow larger dogs to be fully immersed.

Make sure to thoroughly clean any used tubs before designating it as your dog washing station. New plastic tubs usually need to be rinsed before first use as well.

Set Up the Tub in a Stable Base

Once you choose your dog washing tub, you need a base or stand for placing it on. The base provides stability and puts the tub at an ergonomic height for you while bathing. Here are some options for bases:

Tables – A plastic folding table, old workbench or sturdy table secures smaller tubs in place at waist height.
Metal stands – Buy a tub stand specifically made for holding basins or barrels at the right washing height.
Cinder blocks – For large stock tanks or kiddie pools, stack cinder blocks to elevate them several inches off the ground.
Non-slip mat – Place a rubber mat underneath the tub to keep it from sliding around on smooth surfaces.

The base you use depends on the size and type of tub. Just make sure the tub is fully supported underneath and not wobbly, which could cause spills. Place the tub base in your designated washing spot before setting the tub on top.

Outfit Your Tub with Plumbing

The plumbing setup you need depends on whether you position the washing station indoors or outdoors. Here are some options:

Outdoor hose – Attach a gently-spraying nozzle to your hose for an instant outdoor washing station.
Faucet splitter – Add a splitter to your outdoor spigot to attach both a hose and sprayer nozzle.
Indoor plumbing – For indoor setups, hire a plumber to install new pipes or tap into existing hardware.
Bucket – Keep a bucket next to the tub for dipping and pouring water over your dog manually.

Make sure plumbing hardware is leak-free. Silicone caulk seals any cracks in plumbing fixtures. Install a backflow preventer valve if tapping into indoor plumbing.

Add Drains for Easy Cleanup

The right drainage setup keeps your DIY washing station from getting waterlogged. Consider these drainage options:

Floor drain – Station the tub over an existing floor drain if located indoors.
Outflow hose – Attach a hose to siphon water away from an outdoor washing station.
Gravity method – Elevate one side of the tub using cinder blocks to create an angled floor for water runoff.
Sump pump – For large indoor setups, install a sump pump system to actively pump water away.
Splash guard – Use a plastic splash guard around the tub to contain overspray and suds.

Test your drainage method before the first bath. You may need to tweak supports under the tub to create better outflow. Keep a squeegee nearby to push water toward drains after bathing.

Add Storage for Supplies

It’s key to have dog washing supplies readily available when bathing your pup. Here are some storage ideas for your DIY station:

Shower caddy – Hang or place a plastic shower caddy nearby to hold shampoo, sponge, brush, treats, etc.
Shelving – Install floating corner shelves or repurpose a small bookcase to store supplies right next to the tub.
Cabinet – Use an outdoor cabinet or small chest to keep towels, aprons, blow dryers and other bath materials organized.
Bins – Sort supplies into labeled bins that can be stacked near the washing station or carried over as needed.
Hook strip – Adhere hooks to the wall for hanging leashes, spray nozzles, dog towels, robes and anything drippy.

Try to waterproof storage containers if possible to prevent leaks. And organize items so the most crucial bath supplies are within arm’s reach during scrub time.

Add Safety Features

When operating an indoor or outdoor washing station, there are a few safety measures to take:

Non-slip mat – Place rubber mats inside the tub and nearby to avoid slips and falls on wet floors.
Water splashes – Install a clear plastic shield around the station to prevent water from damaging nearby walls or electronics.
Electrical – Make sure no outlets are exposed near the washing station and all lights are watertight.
Ventilation – If indoors, use a humidistat fan to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent mold.
Signage – Post “wet floor” signs when the washing station is in use to warn others of slick surfaces.
Emergency cut-off – Have an automatic water pump shut-off in case of leaks and an emergency water supply shut off valve.

These simple safety steps reduce the chance of electric shocks, slips, mold and other hazards that come with water.

Make It Comfortable for You and Your Dog

Adding some creature comforts to your DIY dog washing station makes bath time more pleasant and less stressful. Consider these add-ons:

Steps – Allow little or elderly dogs to climb up into the tub via steps or a ramp.
Non-slip mat – Cushion the tub bottom with a rubber mat for secure paw grip.
Tether – Install a hook to clip your dog’s leash to, keeping them put during the wash.
Sprayer – Adjustable spray nozzles on hoses make rinsing your dog thorough yet gentle.
Treat bucket – Keep your pup motivated and rewarded with a bucket of treats within reach.
Chair – Place a small stool or chair beside the station so you can sit comfortably while bathing.
Music – Create a relaxing ambiance with speakers to play calming tunes or white noise.

Go slowly when first acclimating your dog to the washing routine. Make it positive with praise and rubs between bathing steps.

Test It Out!

Once your DIY dog washing station is fully set up and prepped, it’s time to give it a test run. Here are some tips for breaking in your new washing station:

Give treats in the tub (without water first) so your dog associates it with a positive experience.
Run every component individually – the faucet, sprayer, drainage – checking for leaks beforehand.
Do an initial rinse with plain water to spot-test drainage speed.
Wash a pet-safe stuffed animal and put it through the full washing routine.
Only use lukewarm water to avoid scalding or startling your dog.
Have all your supplies organized and ready to go beforehand so you’re not fumbling mid-bath.
Go slow; gradually work up to a full bath once your dog is comfortable being in the tub space.
Give treats and praise throughout the process to reinforce it as a good thing.

Don’t forget to clean up the station and disinfect surfaces after each use. Rinse away all soap film and shed fur down the drain. Once your dog is washed, thoroughly towel dry their coat or use a blow dryer on low heat. The washing station makes that process easier too!

With a DIY washing station, you can give your dog baths at home on your schedule. Building your own station allows you to customize the size, features, and setup based on your space and needs. And your dog will appreciate the gentle, hands-on home grooming experience. Follow these steps to create the perfect washing station for sudsing up your pup.

FAQs about Building DIY Dog Washing Stations

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about constructing your own dog washing station at home:

What size washing tub should I use for my dog?

Choose a tub that allows your dog enough room to sit and turn around comfortably. Very small dogs only require a basin or sink while medium to large dogs need larger tubs. Pick a tub that matches your dog’s size but doesn’t overwhelm them.

What if my dog is afraid of water or baths?

Go slow when introducing your dog to the washing station. Let them inspect it without water first. Give treats for stepping into the empty tub. Only add a few inches of water initially so they can grow accustomed to it. Talk in an upbeat, happy tone and provide constant praise.

Where is the best place to set up a DIY dog washing station?

The ideal spot is one that’s easy to clean up. Near a water source and drain so you can easily fill and empty the tub. Protect indoor flooring from splashes. Outdoors, choose a level spot protected from the elements like a covered patio or garage.

What type of drain should I use for my washing station?

Indoors, positioning the tub near a floor drain is ideal. Outdoors, elevate one end of the tub so water runs off. Or attach a hose to drain water several feet away from the station into a yard or garden. Avoid drainage that empties near walkways or foundations.

How do I make an outdoor washing station portable?

For a mobile station, use a plastic tub on cinder blocks instead of fastening a permanent tub to the ground. Connect quick-release fittings to any hoses. Store supplies in a wheeled cart or bin. Limit mud and grass stains by placing a small outdoor rug underfoot.

What kind of faucet/hose should I buy?

Look for adjustable nozzles to control water flow. Handheld sprayers allow you to reach all areas of your dog. For faucets, opt for a splitter to use multiple hoses/attachments. Invest in steel braided hoses that resist kinks and punctures. Choose fixtures rated for outdoor freezing if needed.

How do I warm the water for baths during winter?

Outdoors, collect water in buckets warmed on a stove inside then transport to the station. Or run hot water through your hose and drainage hardware first so cold water isn’t sitting in pipes. Indoors, insulate plumbing lines or install a small inline water heater used just for bathing.

Summary of Creating DIY Dog Washing Stations

Building your own dog washing station at home provides a convenient place to bathe your pup. Follow these key steps:

Pick an accessible spot with good drainage to set up the station, either indoors or outdoors.
Choose a tub or basin big enough for your dog to fit comfortably and move around.
Set the tub on a stable base using materials like tables, blocks, or a metal stand.
Outfit with plumbing using either indoor pipes or an outdoor hose and nozzle.
Add water drainage using pre-existing hardware, pumped systems or gravity flows.
Include storage for supplies like shampoos, towels, leashes and treats.
Safety-proof with non-slip mats, shields and water cut-offs to prevent risks.
Install comfort add-ons like steps, tethers, sprayers and chairs for ease of use.
Test everything thoroughly before introducing your dog for their first washing station bath.

The washing station lets you shampoo and bond with your dog in a comfortable controlled setting. Building your own station allows complete customization to suit your needs and space. Follow the steps outlined to create the perfect DIY dog washing station for a happy, freshly cleaned pup.