Garden notes

How to wash a snuffle mat without flattening the flowers

Kibble dust, drool and the odd wet-food topper all end up in the grass. Most of our mats can go in the machine, but fleece petals stay fluffier for longer with a gentler routine. This is how we keep the garden fresh.

1. Shake it out outside

   Hold the mat upside down and give it a good shake over the lawn or a bin. Crumbs trapped deep in the petals come loose faster before they get wet.

2. Pick your wash

   For felt mats and drawstring bowls, hand wash in warm water with a small amount of mild, unscented detergent. For fleece mats, a cold gentle cycle in a laundry bag is fine.

3. Unclip the extras

   Take off puzzle pods, bones and squeaky add-ons before washing. They clean faster with a cloth, and they won't bang around the drum.

4. Skip the softener

   Fabric softener and strong scents mask the smell of the food, which is the whole point of the game.

5. Air dry, fluffed

   Squeeze out the water, fluff the petals with your fingers and dry flat or hang in the shade. Tumble drying mats petals down.

Once a week for daily users is a good rhythm. Two mats in rotation means one can dry while the other is in play.