A wool felt cat cave is an investment in your cat's comfort, and with the right care it will last for years. The good news: wool is naturally odor resistant and dirt repellent, so deep cleaning is rarely needed. Here is exactly how to keep your cat's cave fresh.
Everyday maintenance
Shake the cave outdoors once a week to remove loose fur and dust. A lint roller or pet hair brush handles whatever the shake misses. Because wool resists odors, this simple routine is enough for most households.
Spot cleaning
For small stains or dirty paw prints, dab the spot with a cloth dampened in lukewarm water and a drop of mild wool soap. Blot, do not rub, rubbing can disturb the felted fibers. Let it air dry completely.
Deodorizing without washing
Sprinkle baking soda inside the cave, leave it for a few hours, then shake and vacuum it out. Sunshine is also a great natural deodorizer: place the cave in indirect sunlight for an afternoon. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can fade dyed colors over time.
The occasional deep clean
If the cave truly needs a wash, hand wash only. Fill a basin with lukewarm water (never hot) and a small amount of wool-safe detergent. Submerge the cave, gently squeeze, and soak for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water at the same temperature; sudden temperature changes can cause wool to shrink and felt further.
Drying and reshaping
Press out water gently without wringing. While damp, reshape the dome with your hands and stuff it lightly with towels to hold the form. Air dry away from direct heat. Never use a dryer or radiator, the heat will shrink the wool.
What never to do
Never machine wash, never use hot water, bleach, or harsh detergents, and never wring a felted cave. Treat it like a fine wool sweater and it will reward you with years of cozy naps.
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