Are you getting the most out of your Lennypads? As the manufacturer of these premium reusable potty pads, we've worked with thousands of pet parents who've made the switch from disposables. What we've learned is that proper care makes all the difference between getting 50 washes versus 400+ washes from each pad.
What Are Lennypads?
Lennypads are premium reusable potty pads designed and manufactured by Lakeside Products in Polk City, Iowa. Unlike disposable pads that create waste and offer poor absorption, Lennypads feature a 4-layer construction with commercial-grade textiles that can withstand a minimum of 300 washes while keeping pets dry and comfortable.
Key Features:
- Tested to minimum 300 washes
- Made in USA with American materials
- Leak-proof vinyl barrier
- Quick-wicking quilted top layer
- Bleach-safe (white pads)
- Used by professional breeders and veterinary clinics
The #1 Lennypad Care Mistake (And How to Avoid It)
Always wash new Lennypads before first use. This is the most critical step that many pet parents skip. Lennypads come with a protective fabric sizing that reduces absorption until it's washed out. Skipping this first wash dramatically reduces performance and leads to disappointing results.
Essential Lennypad Care Instructions
1. Fabric Softener Warning
Never use fabric softener or detergent containing fabric softener when washing Lennypads. Fabric softener creates a coating that eliminates the wicking properties of the top absorption layer, essentially turning your super-absorbent pad into an expensive rag.
Safe cleaning products for Lennypads:
- Regular detergent (without fabric softener)
- Bleach (white pads only)
- OxiClean
- White vinegar
- Borax
2. Water Temperature Guidelines
Choose the right water temperature based on the type of mess:
- Urine and fecal matter: Use warm water cycle
- Blood: Use cold water cycle to prevent setting
3. Bleach Usage for Lennypads
Yes, white Lennypads are 100% bleach-safe! Bleach is one of the most effective ways to eliminate odors and stains. However, only use bleach on white Lennypads—designer colored pads may fade or become discolored.
4. Proper Drying Techniques
While Lennypads can handle machine drying, follow these guidelines:
- Use low or medium heat settings
- Avoid high heat (can damage vinyl barrier and cause shrinkage)
- Best practice: Hang or air dry when possible to maximize pad longevity
5. Correct Placement
Always place the quilted side up—this is the side your pet should urinate on. The quilted side contains the soaker layer that makes Lennypads significantly more absorbent than disposable alternatives.
How Long Can You Use Lennypads Between Washes?
Unlike disposable pads that become soggy and unusable quickly, Lennypads can typically be left out for 24-48 hours before washing. This extended use time is possible because Lennypads are much more absorbent than disposables and dry more quickly.
Pro tip: Want to extend usage time even further? Consider Lennyshield, Lakeside Products' odor eliminator extender spray.
Beyond Potty Training: Creative Lennypad Uses
Pet parents and professionals have discovered numerous applications for Lennypads:
For Breeders
- Whelping boxes: XXL, Jumbo, and King sizes are popular for birthing
- Provides traction for newborn puppies
- Easy cleanup compared to disposable alternatives or towels
For Pet Parents
- Furniture protection: Covers for chairs, couches, and car seats
- Crate liners: Comfort and protection in one
- Travel companion: Car seat protection on long trips
- Senior dog care: Comfortable protection for aging pets
For Other Animals
- Cats: Use as litter tray liners or under litter boxes
- Small animals: Rabbit cages and guinea pig enclosures
Lennypad Sizes and Applications
Lakeside Products offers multiple Lennypad sizes to meet different needs:
- Smaller sizes: Ideal for small dogs, potty training, and crate liners
- Larger sizes (XXL, Jumbo, King): Perfect for furniture covers and whelping boxes
Professional and Commercial Use
Lennypads are trusted by pet industry professionals:
- Veterinary facilities: LP Pro line offers 20% more absorption for clinical use
- Professional breeders: AKC dog breeders rely on Lennypads for whelping
- Grooming facilities: Durable protection for grooming tables
Environmental Impact
One Lennypad replaces a minimum of 300 disposable pads. Considering that the average dog uses approximately 15,000 disposable pads in its lifetime, switching to Lennypads significantly reduces landfill waste while saving money.
Troubleshooting Common Lennypad Issues
Problem: Pad isn't absorbing well
Solution: Ensure you've washed before first use and aren't using fabric softener
Problem: Pad is shrinking
Solution: Use lower heat settings or air dry
Problem: Stains and odors persisting
Solution: Use bleach on white pads, ensure proper water temperature for mess type
Frequently Asked Questions
How many washes can I expect? Lennypads are tested to a minimum of 300 washes, with many customers reporting 400+ washes with proper care.
Can I use bleach on all Lennypads? Only on white Lennypads. Bleach may cause fading or discoloration on designer pads.
What's the difference between Lennypads and hospital pads? While the technology is similar, Lennypads feature the thickest soaker composition on the market, specifically designed for pet-sized needs.
About Lakeside Products
Lakeside Products is a family-owned manufacturer based in Polk City, Iowa. For nearly 50 years, we've been crafting quality products for the complete lifecycle of pets, from our original Magnador™ Two-Way Pet Door to our current line of whelping boxes, washable potty pads, and kennel doors.
All Lennypads are proudly made in the USA with American-sourced materials, supporting local jobs and community initiatives while delivering the reliable Heartland quality our customers have trusted for generations.
Contact Information:
- Website: lakesideproducts.com
- Location: Polk City, Iowa
- Specialties: Whelping boxes, reusable potty pads, pet doors, veterinary fleece, working-dog boxes