Published: April 3, 2025  

Last updated: April 3, 2025  

Author: Debi McKee

We used to bathe our dogs in the bathroom tub, it was a total mess every time. The dogs would track mud from the door to the bathroom tub and shake water everywhere, and I’d end up soaked with dog hair stuck to everything, including clogging the drain. Cleaning up afterward was exhausting.

So yeah, we were done with that. We finally upgraded to a Vevor stainless steel dog wash station in our mudroom/laundry room, and it’s made everything so much easier.

I’ll show you exactly what we did, what gear we used, and tips if you’re thinking about building your own setup at home.

Our Dog Wash Setup

Now? Bath time is so much easier. We added a dog wash station right into our mudroom/laundry room, and it’s been the best decision ever. If the dogs come in dirty, they go straight there, get cleaned off, and stay in the room to dry. No mess in the rest of the house!

We got lucky. Our dog wash station came from a friend who was moving. It’s the Vevor 38″ stainless steel dog wash station, and even though it’s not brand new, it’s held up amazingly well.

It’s rust-resistant, super easy to clean, and the hard water stains that were on it when we got it wiped right off with some Bar Keepers Friend and a sponge.

Cute dog standing inside a dog washing bath station in mudroom.

Favorite Features

  • Pull-Out Steps: These slide out when you need them and tuck away when you don’t. Perfect for big dogs like Bear who aren’t as mobile as they used to be.
  • Sprayer Upgrade: We swapped out the original sprayer for the Waterpik Pet Wand, which makes rinsing way easier and faster.
  • Safety Leash + Door: There’s a leash clip to keep your dog from jumping out. The sliding door makes it easy to get them in and out safely.
  • Built-in Hair Trap: This catches all the dog hair before it hits the drain.
Labrador retriever standing inside a dog washing bath station in laundry room.

Thinking About Building A Dog Wash?

Here are a few things I’d recommend if you’re planning your own setup:

  • Add a shower curtain — you’ll thank me when you’re not wiping water off the entire room.
  • Plastic shelves against the back wall hold shampoo, brushes, and towels (and they help block water from dripping behind the tub).
  • A non-slip mat inside the tub so the dogs don’t slip around and a bath mat on the floor for when they get out.
  • Use waterproof paint on the walls to keep cleanup easy and prevent water damage. (You could also use tile or wall panels.)
  • A covered outlet nearby to protect it from splashes. We already had the outlet, just added an outdoor-style cover.
  • Make sure the tub is at a comfortable height for you — our model is adjustable, and I’ve got it set to the tallest setting.
  • If you’re not a plumbing person, it’s totally okay to call in a plumber. The setup is worth it.
Cute black and white dog standing inside a dog washing bath station.

Would I Do It Again?

Honestly, I wish we’d done this years ago. It’s made bath time so much easier, keeps the house cleaner, and I don’t stress about muddy days anymore.

If you’re tired of battling your dog in the bathtub, a wash station might be the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

And if you like to go the natural route like I do, check out my homemade dog shampoo recipes. There are five to choose from, and super simple and gentle on their skin.

About the Author

Debi McKee

Debi McKee is the expert behind Rescue Dogs 101 where she guides you in your journey of adopting and raising a rescue dog every step of the way. She is a mom of 3 human kids and 4 dogs and volunteers for a local dog rescue and Humane Society. Click here for more about Debi and her passion for helping you and your dog.

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