I now know why fleece wasn't working properly...

[BellasMummy]

just noticed that the washing gel we had been using says 'washes and softens'! mallethead its no wonder the wee didn't seem to be getting through to the towel underneath. We have been using it for months, so it will take a few washes to get it all out now.
I'm relieved we found out the problem as it was getting annoying changing the fleece and then the next day it was wet :{.

 

[Wiebke]

Good news!

The other things you have to look out for is not to overload the machine or your fleece will come out all smelly when there is too little water and too much fleece to soak it up, so it can't wash properly.

 

[mikulinek]

Speaking of which - does anyone know a better way of getting bits of hay out of the fleece/bedding/towels before putting them in the wash? I've tried shaking and shaking and shaking them and using a little hoover but there are always bits of hay in the wash....

 

[lexybee91]

I use an old duvet cover, pop the fleeces in there. They still get washed but the hay stays in the old duvet cover =) x

 

[piggyme234]

I brush my fleece like a possessed thing before I wash it. The last few little bits do come out in the wash and the machine gets a rinse cycle before clothes go in.

 

[Shellza]

I always give mine a good old brush too Never tried the duvet cover, but I do have a spare one

 

[Fidgetthefirst]

Yep, lots of people use quilt, or pillow cases, or get special wash bags and all the muck stays in there

 

[mikulinek]

Thanks everyone - that duvet cover idea is ingenious!

 

[piggiewiggie]

I brush my fleece like a possessed thing before I wash it. The last few little bits do come out in the wash and the machine gets a rinse cycle before clothes go in.

LOL me too! I look possessed!
I also have a pet washer bag that filters the hay and hairs for my hairy pigs.
Cant remember the link but a duvet cover would be just as good.

 

[MrsM]

Good news!

The other things you have to look out for is not to overload the machine or your fleece will come out all smelly when there is too little water and too much fleece to soak it up, so it can't wash properly.

I didm't know that...