Updated 06/30/2023 – If you share your life with a dog, you know just how dirty dogs can get. Especially after a romp at the dog park or a hike on dusty trails. But, bathing your pup at home can be a back-breaking experience. Not only do you need to spend a lot of time bent over a tub, but then you also need to clean up the mess once you are done. Of course, all this is assuming that your dog can fit in your bathtub. But now, you have another option. That is going to a self serve dog wash station in the greater Greenville, SC area.
Self-serve dog wash stations provide you with just about everything you need to wash your pup, including an elevated tub, shampoo and a dryer.
And the best part is, they do all the clean up!
But, finding a self serve dog wash station near you can be difficult. There are only a few dog wash stations in the greater Greenville area.
To make life easier for you we have done the research to find the best self-serve dog washing stations in and near Greenville, South Carolina.
Information in this post is subject to change without notice. While we strive to insure accuracy on Happyoodles.com, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Also, the mentioning of a business in this post should not be viewed as an endorsement. Please call the dog wash for the most up-to-date information.
How often should you wash your Dog?
How often you should wash your dog depends on their fur type and activities. If your dog has long hair they will require regular grooming and should be bathed every 4 to 8 weeks. Medium and short haired dogs can go longer, unless they spend a lot of time outside or are prone to getting dirty.
How much does a self-serve dog wash station cost in Greenville, SC?
The cost to use a self-serve dog wash in the greater Greenville Area is between $10 and $25. While many businesses charge a flat rate, some fees are determined by size or which products you use. In addition to the self-serve pet wash station, many businesses offer add-on services like nail trimming, ear cleaning and even doggy facials.
Usually, add-on services come with an extra fee. Make sure to call ahead to confirm pricing.
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
Selecting a Self-Service Dog Wash Station in the greater Greenville, SC area
Before taking your dog to a DIY wash station you should check-out a few in your area to see which one best fits your needs. DIY dog wash stations are not all alike.
Differences between pet wash businesses can include the size of tubs, tub access, cost and what’s included in the self-serve wash. Some self-serve dog wash places will offer add-ons while others can be considered “no-frills”. Also, some places will offer loyalty programs giving you a free wash after a certain number of paid visits.
Deciding which one is best for your really depends on what meets your needs and your budget.
When checking out a dog wash location it’s best to leave your dog at home. This way you won’t be distracted by them.
Also, try to ask questions during your visit. Not only will you learn about what you can expect at the dog wash, but even a short conversion with the people that work there will give you a feel for how the place is run.
Here are a few suggestions on what to look for and ask about.
- Are the tubs clean?
- Are there walls or dividers between the tubs? If you have a dog that is easily distracted, having a partition between the tubs will help the process go smoothly.
- Are there gates to keep a dog from running out of the store? This may not be an issue for everyone, but if your dog does not like bath time you want to make sure they can’t escape.
- 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? Ramps are easier for large and older dogs to use.
- Are there tub restraints?
- How much time do you get in the tub for the initial fee? Can you add extra time if you need it?
- What supplies are included? Typically, shampoos, tubs and air dryers are provided. But some places will also include towels and special shampoos.
- Do they allow walk-ins or do you need to make an appointment in advance? Check to see if they charge late fees or no-show fees.
- Do they offer other services? Some stores may offer services like nail trimming and ear cleaning for an extra fee.
- If you have a large dog like a standard sized Bernedoodle make sure the tub is big enough for them to comfortable turn around in.
- What form of payment do they take?
How to Use a Self-Serve Dog Wash Station in Greenville, SC
After you have chosen the best place for you, 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 judgment when using a dog wash.
Before you go
- If you are going later in the day check to see when the tubs are closed for the night. Many businesses close the self-wash stations early to give employees time to clean the tubs before the store closes.
- 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.
- 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 Mini Bernedoodle.
- If you can, take your dog for a walk or a romp in the dog park before going to the store. This will allow them to burn off excess energy before the wash.
Once you are there
- If you have an appointment, arrive on time. Otherwise you may not have enough time to thoroughly clean your dog.
- Check-in with the staff and pay.
- Select the tub that fits your dog the best.
- Use the provided tub restraints. Tub restraints are there to keep your dog from jumping out and getting hurt.
- Never leave your dog unattended in the tub
- Check the water temperature.
- 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 shampoo and lather. 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 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.
- Tip: if you place a towel over your dog’s head they will not try to shake off the water.
- Next, if towels are available, towel dry them before using the air blower.
- Use the air dryer to completely dry them.
- If the dryer has multiple settings start out with the lowest setting and them move up as they become comfortable.
Self Serve Dog Wash in Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville has a limited number of self-serve pet wash stations, but they are scattered across the city making it easier to find one close to you.
1. Wag Dog Spa
The Wag Dog Spa offers full-service grooming, a DIY dog wash, dog food, treats and pet gear. The self serve dog wash is only available on certain days of the week. So, call ahead before you go to make sure it is available. No appointment is needed.
You can find Wag Dog Spa behind Linda Long Travel on Laurens Road. Here is the address.
- Address: 15 Shoppers Dr, Greenville, SC 29607
- Website: www.wagdogspa.com – Under construction Call to confirm time and supplies.
- Phone: (864) 346-5453
Included in the self serve dog wash is:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Aprons
- Towels
- Brushes
- Dryers
2. Dog Culture
The Dog Culture is your one stop doggy shop in Greenville, SC. In addition to the self-serve dog washing stations, they also offer doggy day care, full service grooming, a pet supply market and cage-free boarding. You can even rent their private dog park for special occasions.
They are located at:
- Address: 627 W Washington St, Greenville, SC 29601
- Website: dogculturegvl.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (864)558-0597
You can reserve your dog wash spot by calling them at the number listed above. The cost of the dog wash is based on size. You can find the most up-to-date pricing on their website.
When you arrive, you will be provided an individual tote that will contain all the items you need including:
- Apron
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Towel
- Brush
- Ear and Eye Wipes
- Blow Dryer
3. Pup in a Tub
Pup in a Tub is a family owned self-serve dog wash and groomer located in the Thornblade complex in Geer, SC. They offer waist high tubs with non-slip ramps making it easier to get older and large dogs into the tub. Appointments are not necessary, but they do get busy on the weekends.
You can find Pup in a Tub at:
- Address: 435 The Parkway Suite D-111, Greer, SC 29650
- Website: pupinatubsc.com
- Phone: (864) 655-7877
Included in the self serve dog wash is:
- Raised tubs
- Shampoo
- Aprons
- Towels
- Brushes
- Dryers
- Cologne
- Toothbrushes
- Ear cleaner
They also offer a de-shedding upgrade and various shampoo upgrades. Plus, nail trimming or grinding.
4. Pet Supplies Plus
Pet Supplies Plus is a franchise. So, your local store is independently owned, though they may be part of a larger group of franchises. This means you may find differences between the local stores, like not all Pet Supplies Locations have self-serve dog washing stations.
Pet Supplies Plus has tubs for smaller dogs and elevated open front stations for larger dogs. They also offer a rewards program for frequent customers. Make sure to ask about the current reward programs.
There are two Pet Supplies Plus locations in the greater Greenville, SC area that offer DIY dog wash stations:
Website: petsuppliesplus.com/taylor
Pet Supplies Plus – Taylor
- Address: 2801 Wade Hampton Blvd Suite 100, Taylors, SC 29687
- Phone: (864) 292-5550
Pet Supplies Plus Greer
- Address: 805 W Wade Hampton Blvd Suite F, Greer, SC 29650
- Phone: (864) 447-03880
To use the Pet Supplies Plus dog wash you first need to pay at the register. Then you can head back to the self wash station where they will turn the water on. At the wash station you will find most of what you need to get your pup clean. Including:
- Non-slip mats
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towels
- Blow-dryers
- Apron
However, Pet Supply Plus is a BYOB, meaning you need to bring your own brushes (and combs).
5. Pet Supermarket
Pet Supermarket is a larger retailer that offers self wash stations along with full service grooming. Not all Pet Supermarket locations offer a self-serve pet wash station. But there are two locations in the greater Greenville, SC area.
Pet Supermarket locations:
- Address: 1922 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC 29605
- Phone: (864) 770-297
- Address: 3215 North Pleasantburg Drive Greenville, SC 29609
- Phone: (864) 565-9172
Website: petsupermarket.com
Pet Supermarket offers three options for their DIY dog wash stations.
- Standard wash – This is their basic level which includes shampoo, conditioner, blow-drier, towels, and a treat.
- Standard wash with a Blueberry Facial
- Skout’s Honor Premium Wash – includes Skout’s Honor premium products and a Face Furst Blueberry Facial
6. EarthWise Pet Supply
Earthwise Pet Supply is another regional pet supply store that offers self-serve pet wash stations at select locations. The EarthWise dog wash experience includes a private bathing room for 1 hour with a temperature controlled raised pet bathing tub and ramp.
You can find a dog wash stations at the Simpsonville store located at:
- Address: 2700 Woodruff Rd, Simpsonville, SC 29681
- Website: earthwisepetgreenville.com
- Phone: (864) 631-2745
Earthwise Pet Supply Self-wash includes:
- Easy to use waist-high tubs with ramps
- Shampoo
- Soft towels
- Brushes
- Ear wash
- Air dryers