Washing your Hay NetUpdated an hour ago
Yes, GutzBusta hay nets can be washed. Regular cleaning can help remove dust, dirt, saliva and hay residue.
Washing Machine
If using a washing machine:
- Place the hay net inside a pillowcase or suitable laundry bag and secure it closed.
- Wash on a gentle or delicate cycle using cold or cool water.
- Choose a mild, natural or horse-safe detergent and avoid harsh chemicals, bleach or fabric softeners.
- Once washed, line dry or drape the net over a railing or similar suitable surface to air dry.
Hand Washing
For hand washing:
- Place the hay net in a large bucket or tub and fill with water.
- Add a mild, natural or horse-safe soap/detergent.
- Gently agitate the net in the water for approximately 3–5 minutes to loosen dirt and hay residue. If particularly dirty – allow the hay nets to soak for half an hour.
- Empty the soapy water and rinse the net thoroughly several times until all soap and suds have been removed.
- Line dry or drape over a railing or similar suitable surface to air dry.
Important: Always ensure the hay net is thoroughly rinsed and completely dry before refilling with hay.
Round Bale Nets
Round bale nets can be more difficult to wash due to their size and weight, particularly once they become wet.
If you wish to wash a round bale net, you can use a large outdoor bath, trough or suitable container and follow the hand-washing instructions above.
Alternatively, a much easier option is to hang the net over a rail, fence or similar structure before a good rainfall and allow the rain to naturally rinse it. That way it is already hanging in the position it needs to be in in order to dry.
This is likely to be the more practical option, as attempting to lift and manoeuvre a soaked round bale net -particularly a knotless net - can be extremely difficult due to the additional weight.
We have not commonly heard of customers washing their round bale nets, so regular washing is generally not considered necessary. If the net does require cleaning, allowing rainwater to rinse it while hanging is a simple and low-effort option.