Effective Flea and Tick Control: Best Washing Practices for Pet Bedding

For pet-centric businesses—whether it’s a boarding kennel, veterinary office, grooming parlour, or animal rescue centre—managing flea and tick infestations is a continual task. While keeping the animals themselves free from pests is essential, maintaining a clean, pest-free environment, particularly through proper care of pet bedding, is just as important. Managing these pests ensures not only the health of the animals but also helps sustain the reputation and cleanliness of your establishment. One of the most effective approaches to this challenge lies in the proper use of commercial laundry equipment.

Why Clean Pet Bedding Matters

Pet bedding is often a breeding ground for fleas, ticks, and their eggs. Female fleas can lay hundreds of eggs that eventually develop into larvae, pupae, and more adult fleas, creating a cycle of infestation. Without regular and effective cleaning, the problem can spread throughout the facility, making it harder to eliminate. For any business dealing with animals, controlling this cycle is essential, and clean bedding is a critical part of that strategy.

The Power of Commercial Laundry Equipment in Pest Control

Commercial laundry machines, designed for heavy-duty and large-volume operations, are key to effectively removing fleas, ticks, and their eggs from bedding. Compared to household washers, commercial machines offer greater washing power, higher heat settings, and larger capacities—perfect for pet-related businesses dealing with infestations.

Why commercial laundry equipment is an indispensable tool for flea and tick control:

• 1. Higher Water Temperature: Fleas, ticks, and their eggs are destroyed at temperatures above 140°F (60°C). Commercial machines are equipped to reach and hold these temperatures, ensuring pests are effectively eradicated.
• 2. Increased Load Capacity: Commercial washers can handle large amounts of bedding at once, allowing you to clean multiple items efficiently and consistently.
• 3. Stronger Agitation: The robust washing cycles of these machines ensure thorough removal of pests, pet hair, dirt, and debris embedded in bedding.

Best Practices for Washing Pet Bedding to Remove Fleas and Ticks

While using commercial laundry equipment gives you a significant advantage, the right washing techniques can further enhance your flea and tick control efforts.

Pre-Wash Preparations

Before placing bedding in the machine, it’s essential to remove loose debris. Shake bedding outside to get rid of loose hair, dirt, and pests. This reduces the strain on your machine and ensures a more effective cleaning process. If the infestation is severe or bedding is heavily soiled, consider pre-soaking items in hot water with a pet-safe detergent before starting the wash cycle.

Optimising Wash Settings for Flea and Tick Removal

• 1. High Heat: Always use the hottest water setting available on your commercial machine. Temperatures of 140°F or above are required to kill fleas, ticks, and their eggs. Running the bedding through a cycle at this temperature for at least 10 minutes ensures proper pest elimination.
• 2. Proper Detergent Choice: Selecting the right detergent is crucial. Enzyme-based cleaners are particularly effective at breaking down organic materials, while pet-safe disinfectants help destroy any remaining larvae and eggs. Ensure that detergents are strong enough to sanitise the bedding without being harmful to the animals that will use it.
• 3. Extended Wash Cycles: In cases of severe flea or tick outbreaks, use extended wash or deep-clean cycles. This ensures bedding is thoroughly agitated and pests are fully dislodged and eliminated.

Drying: An Essential Step in Pest Elimination

Drying is just as important as washing in the fight against fleas and ticks. Heat from the drying process helps to kill any pests that might have survived the wash cycle.

High-Temperature Drying: Commercial dryers are designed to reach higher temperatures than domestic models. Set the dryer to its highest heat setting and run it for at least 30 minutes. Prolonged exposure to heat ensures that fleas, ticks, and their eggs are completely eradicated from the bedding.

Conclusion: A Hygienic Environment is Key to a Pest-Free Business

Ensuring a pest-free environment is critical for any pet-centred business. By incorporating the right washing techniques and utilising the power of commercial laundry equipment, you can effectively eliminate fleas and ticks from pet bedding. This not only protects the animals in your care but also safeguards the health and reputation of your business.

Investing in high-performance laundry solutions and consistently adhering to recommended cleaning practices will keep your operations running smoothly while preventing costly infestations. With the right approach, your business can stay one step ahead of fleas and ticks and provide a safe, comfortable environment for the animals you care for.