Washable mats and blankets for everyday pet mess
Pick a mat for the floor or a blanket for the couch by checking where it will go, what it’s made of and how you’ll wash it.
Start where the mess ends up
Put a mat where you first see muddy paw prints or bits of grit. If the mess starts at the door, measure a spot just inside it. Open the door all the way and check how much room there is underneath it before you pick a thick mat.
If the problem is fur on one couch cushion, try a blanket you can lift off on its own. Measure the part your pet uses, including any edge you want to drape over. Start with a blanket you already own if it fits and you can wash it easily.
Read the material and backing separately
Check what touches the floor or furniture. A mat’s top and backing can be made from different materials. L.L.Bean lists a polyester face and rubber backing for its Honeycomb Washable Waterhog Doormat. If the mat maker lists restrictions for your floor finish, check those before buying.
For a couch blanket, decide whether you’re mostly picking up loose fur or trying to keep a spill off the cushion. PetAmi describes its Fleece Pet Blanket as polyester with fleece on one side and a fluffy sherpa finish on the other. The maker lists it as not waterproof. If you need a barrier against spills, look for that feature on the exact item.
Check care instructions for the size you want
L.L.Bean says its small and medium Honeycomb Washable Waterhog Doormats can go in a washing machine. The large version calls for a commercial front loader. The maker says to wash the mat by itself, whatever size you choose.
For its Fleece Pet Blanket, PetAmi specifies a cold machine wash and a low dryer setting. Keep the care details for your mat and blanket separate, especially if you plan to wash them on the same day.
- Measure the area to cover, including door clearance or couch edges.
- Check the backing against the floor or furniture maker’s instructions.
- Write down the exact size, wash instructions and drying method before you buy.