How to Wash C&C Cage Fleece Liners

Caring for your guinea pigs or rabbits involves more than just feeding them and ensuring they have a safe environment. One important aspect of their care is maintaining a clean living space, which includes properly washing C&C cage fleece liners. These liners are not only comfortable for your pets but also help in keeping the cage clean and odour-free. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to wash C&C cage fleece liners effectively.

Why Use Fleece Liners?

Fleece liners are a popular choice among guinea pig and rabbit owners for several reasons:

• Comfort: Fleece is soft and cozy, providing a comfortable surface for your pets.
• Absorbency: When paired with an absorbent layer underneath, fleece wicks away moisture, keeping the surface dry.
• Eco-Friendly: Unlike disposable bedding, fleece liners can be washed and reused, reducing waste.
• Cost-Effective: Although the initial investment may be higher, reusable fleece liners save money in the long run.
• Cage Protection: Fleece liners protect the correx base and help it last longer.

Preparing to Wash Fleece Liners

Before you start washing your fleece liners, there are a few steps to ensure they come out clean and fresh.

Gather Supplies

You’ll need the following:

• Mild detergent (free of fabric softeners and bleach)
• White vinegar (optional)
• A brush
• Washing machine
• Airer

Remove Debris

Begin by removing any loose debris from the fleece liners. Give it a good shake out over the compost bin and then brush off any remaining hay, fur, and droppings. This step is essential to prevent clogging your washing machine.

Washing Fleece Liners

Now that you’ve prepared your fleece liners, it’s time to wash them. Follow these steps for optimal results:

Step 1: Load the Washing Machine

Place the fleece liners inside an old duvet cover and secure the opening with a hair tie or similar. This prevents any debris getting into the washing machine. Avoid overloading it; give enough space for water and detergent to circulate freely around each liner.

Step 2: Add Detergent

Use a mild detergent that is free of fabric softeners and bleach. Fabric softeners can reduce the absorbency of the fleece over time. For an extra boost in cleaning power, add half a cup of white vinegar to the softener compartment.

Step 3: Select Wash Settings

Set your washing machine to a gentle cycle with cold or warm water…               NO HOTTER THAN 30°! Hot water can damage the fibres of the fleece over time and shrink it. A gentle cycle ensures that your liners are cleaned without excessive wear and tear.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Ensure that all detergent is rinsed out completely by running an extra rinse cycle if necessary. Residual detergent can irritate your pets’ skin and reduce absorbency.

Drying Fleece Liners

Proper drying is just as important as washing when it comes to maintaining your C&C cage fleece liners.

Step 1: Shake Out Excess Water

After washing, gently shake out excess water from each liner and reshape before placing them on an airer.

Step 2: Drying Method

Air Drying: Hang the fleece liners on a airer or washing line in a well-ventilated area. Air drying helps maintain their shape and prolongs their lifespan.

Avoid Machine Drying: High heat can damage the fibres over time and shrink the fleece.

Step 3: Ensure Complete Dryness

Make sure that each liner is thoroughly dry before placing it back in your guinea pigs’ or rabbits’ cage. Dampness can lead to mould growth and unpleasant odours.

Maintaining Cleanliness Between Washes

To keep your pets’ living environment clean between washes:

• Spot clean daily by removing droppings and wet spots.
• Shake out loose debris regularly.
• Consider using multiple sets of fleece liners so you always have a fresh one ready while others are being washed. Pee pads are great for placing in cage corners where they often like to wee.

Conclusion

Washing C&C cage fleece liners may seem like an extra chore at first glance but it’s essential for maintaining a healthy environment for your guinea pigs or rabbits. By following these steps —removing debris beforehand, using detergents without fabric softeners/bleach during wash cycles followed by proper drying techniques—you’ll prolong the life of the fleece liners and also contribute positively towards overall pet hygiene!