03/13/2024- If live in the city with a dog, you know that bathing your pup at home can be a back-breaking, messy experience. Not only do you need to spend a lot of time as a contortionist, but then you also need to clean up the wet mess once you are done. Of course, all this is assuming that your dog can fit in your tub or shower. But now, you have another option for getting your dog clean. That is going to a self-serve dog wash station right here in Boston, MA.
But, there aren’t that many in the city and finding one can be difficult. To help you, we have done the research for you.
In this post we have listed out the best self-serve dog washing stations we could find in Boston and the surrounding area.
Please call ahead. Information in this post is subject to change without notice. Also, the mentioning of a business in this post should not be viewed as an endorsement.
How much does it cost to use a self-serve dog wash station in Boston?
The cost to use a self-serve dog wash in Boston is between $15 and $25. While many businesses charge a flat rate per dog some places charge by weight or hair type. In addition to the self-serve pet wash, some businesses will offer add-on services like nail trimming and ear cleaning. Add-on services come with an extra fee.
An alternative to going out to wash your dog is created a Dog Wash Station in your home. To learn more check out our post on Best Dog Wash Station Ideas for your Home with 75+ Photos
How often should you wash a Dog?
How often you should wash your dog depends on their fur type and activities. Long haired dogs require regular grooming and should be bathed every 4 to 8 weeks. Medium and short haired dogs can go longer, unless they are outside often and get dirty.
Selecting a Self-Service Dog Wash Station in Boston, MA
While Boston has relatively few self-serve dog washes, you will still need to decide which one to go to.
You might be tempted to go to the nearest one, but you should check out a few to see which one best fits your needs. Self-washing stations are not all alike and will differ from one business to the next.
When going to check out a dog washing station leave your dog at home. That way you won’t be distracted when you are there. Also, make sure to ask any questions you may have.
Here are a few suggestions on what to look for and ask about.
- Look for safely features like non-slip mats or flooring in the tub and on the floor outside of the tub
- How do dogs enter the tub? Is there a ramp or steps to get into the bath? If so, will your dog be able to safely use them? Some older dogs might have a hard time with stairs. If this is the case for you, look for a place with a ramp.
- Are there tub restraints? How many? Tub restraints allow you to use both hands to wash your dog without worrying they may jump out.
- Are the tubs cleaned in between use?
- How much time do you get in the tub and at what cost? Twenty to thirty-minutes is usually enough time to wash a dog. But some long haired dogs can take longer. Can you add extra time if you need it?
- What supplies are included with the price? Shampoo and conditioner? Brushes, towels or an air blower?
- What other services do they provide?
- If you have a large dog like an English Goldendoodle make sure the tub is big enough for them to comfortable turn around in.
- What form of payment do they take?
- Do you need to make an appointment? Do they allow walk-ins? Are their fees if you miss the appointment?
How to Use a Self Serve Dog Wash Station in Boston, MA
After you have chosen the best place to go, it’s time to bring your dog to get washed. Here are some tips based on our own experiences. They may or may not apply to you. Please use your best judgement when using a dog washing station.
- Make sure to gather all your supplies before you go. Items that might not be included are; a dog brush, face wipes, preferred shampoos and conditioners.
- If you have a reactive dog, go early in the morning or during the week when the store is less crowded.
- Thoroughly brush your dog’s coat before going to the dog wash. This is an important step if you have a long or curly haired dog, like a Toy Goldendoodle or F1B Mini Goldendoodle.
- Take your dog for a walk to eliminate and burn off some energy before going into the store.
- Pay at the cash register. If the dog bath is token operated, pay for the token then insert into machine only once you are ready to begin.
- Make sure to use the provided tub restraints. This will prevent your pup from getting out and possibly getting hurt.
- Check the water temperature to ensure it’s not too hot or too cold for your dog.
- Start washing your pup. Begin by rinsing them. Make sure you don’t get water in their ears, as it may cause an infection.
- Next apply the shampoo and lather up. I prefer to start at the base of the neck and move down towards their backside. Don’t forget to wash underneath.
- If your dog has a thick coat, a rubber dog bath brush will help you get down to their skin
- When you are done washing make sure to rinse them thoroughly. Any shampoo that is left behind may irritate their skin.
- If you choose to use a conditioner this is the time to apply it. Rinse it out if necessary.
- Now it’s time to dry your pup. Squeeze out as much water from their fur as you can. This will shorten the drying time.
- Next, towel dry them. Then use the air blower to completely dry your dog.
- If your dog has fleas or your dog has been skunked call the retailer before you bring your dog in.
Where to Find a Do it Yourself Pet Wash Station in Boston, MA
There are only a small handful of self-serve dog washing stations in Boston. Most are located outside of the city but still within a reasonable distance depending on where you live in the city.
Make sure to visit the associated websites to get up-to-date information on services and what is included.
1. BYOD Dog Wash
Our first DIY dog wash is located in South Boston. This DIY shop operates on a walk-in basis. You just need to start the bath 45 minutes before closing time. They also offer full-service grooming, drop-off baths and an assortment of pet products for sale.
- BYOD – South Boston
- Address: 617 E. Broadway, South Boston, MA 02127
- Phone: 617-765-4800
Included in the DIY pet wash is:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towels
- Dryer
2. Cloud 9 Laundra-mutt
Cloud 9 Laundra-mutt is located in the Orient Heights section of Boston. They are close to Constitution Beach, making it an idea place to clean up after a day on the beach. Dogs are only allowed on the beach in the off season.
In addition to the self serve washing station, they also sell dog treats, toys, and accessories.
- Address: 14 Breed St, Boston, MA 02128
- Phone: (617) 418-5877
Included in the self-serve dog wash is:
- Shampoo
- Conditioners
Current rabies certificate is required.
3. LaundroMutt
LaundroMutt is a sister store to the first DIY dog wash listed above. Just like with BYOD dog wash, LaundroMutt operates on a walk-in basis. You just need to start the bath 45 minutes before closing time. They also offer full-service grooming, drop-off baths and an assortment of pet products for sale.
- LaundroMutt Cambridge
- Address: 489 Concord Ave. Cambridge, MA 02138
- Phone: 617-864-9274
Included in the do it yourself dog wash is:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towels
- Dryer
4. Brookline Grooming and Pet Supplies
Next on our list is Brookline Grooming. They now offer an all in one Evolution Dog Wash. You can watch it in action in the above video. The Evolution Dog Wash contains everything you need to wash your dog. The shampoo and conditioner are dispensed right from the machine. Even the dryer is attached.
- Address:146-148 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446 US
- Phone: 617-738-6682
- Email: [email protected]
5. Boston Dog Company
The Boston Dog Company offers self-serve dog washing stations in their Cambridge and Wilmington, MA locations. In addition to the DIY stations they also offer full-service grooming, dog walking, boarding and training. But their main business is Doggy Daycare.
Locations
- Address: 2512 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
- Address: 555 Main Street, Wilmington, MA 01887
- Phone: 617-858-3647
Included in the dog wash is:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towels
- Dryer
6. The Pet Cabaret
The Pet Cabaret is located approximately thirty-minutes from downtown Boston. They offer an array of pet supplies, full-service grooming and of course do it yourself dog wash stations. Appointments are required to use their self-serve tubs and the dog wash closes one hour before store closing.
Included in the DIY dog wash is:
- Elevated tubs
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Brushes
- Towels
- Dryer
- Harness
7. Dirty Dawg Wash Inc.
You can find Dirty Dawg Wash in Norwood, Ma. It’s about 35 minutes from downtown Boston. At Dirty Dawg, the DIY dog wash stations are available by appointment only. You will need to call to schedule an appointment, but often same day appointments are available. They require that all pets are up-to-date on all vaccines.
- Address: 1 Wilson St, Norwood, MA, 02062
- Phone: 781-762-8822
Included in the DIY dog wash is:
- Elevated tubs
- A walk-in tub for larger dogs.
- Professional spray nozzles with preset water temperature.
- Towels
- Aprons
- Scrubbing brushes
- Dryers
- Combs and brushes.
8. The Bark Club
The Bark Club offers a self-serve dog wash, dog grooming salon, & boutique located south of Boston in Weymouth, MA. Self-washes are allotted 45 minutes to wash and blow dry/brush out your pup. If you go over that time you will be charged an additional fee. Appointments are required and they charge a late-fee or no-show fee when applicable. Please make sure to read all the rules on their website before booking an appointment.
- Address: 668 Broad Street, Unit A, Weymouth, Massachusetts 02189
Phone: 339-201-4173
Self-wash comes with:
- Shampoo
- Ear cleaner
- Deodorizer sprays
- Brushes
- Access to a blow dryer
- Two towels – additional charge for more
9. The Soapy Dog
Also, in Weymouth is the Soapy Dog. They do not have a website so you will need to call them with any questions you may have. They offer a walk-in self-serve bath and also provide nail trimming and ear cleaning. This is a cash only business.
- Address: 946 Main St, South Weymouth, MA 02190
- Phone: (781) 331-5530
