When you live and travel full-time in a van with a dog, things get messy — fast. Dog hair, muddy paws, soggy towels, damp fur, and the general whirlwind of life with a four-legged co-pilot… it’s all part of the adventure. But with the right setup and a bit of routine, it’s totally manageable — and honestly, even part of the charm.

🛋️ 1. Washable Blankets for Seating and Floors

Every surface Bow Boe touches is covered. That’s not just for cleanliness — it’s for peace of mind. We use washable blankets on the seating to catch fur, sand, and whatever else gets tracked in. There’s another blanket across the floor carpets, so I can just shake it out or toss it in the wash.

It makes the van feel more lived-in but less worn-out — and it means we can both relax without worrying about muddy paw prints on the upholstery.

🧼 2. Lifting Fur from Carpets (Before the Hoover Even Tries)

Even with the floor covered by a washable blanket, Bow Boe’s hairs have a special talent for weaving themselves into every surface.

I use this clever little tool to lift hair from the carpet before running the vacuum — it grabs the stubborn bits the hoover can’t. Simple, satisfying, and oddly addictive once you start using it.

🐾 3. Portable Vacuum = Game Changer

Even with blankets, fur still finds a way into every corner. That’s why I keep a small handheld vacuum in the van. It’s powerful enough to deal with dog hair and crumbs, and compact enough to stash away when not in use. Every morning starts with a quick 5-minute vacuum to keep the van clear of fur and dust.

I also swear by these lint rollers — they’re perfect for catching Bow Boe’s stray hairs on bedding, cushions, and clothes. Small tool, big difference when you share a tiny space with a fluffy companion.

🚿 4. A Motor-Powered Shower That Keeps Her Fresh

One of the best additions to the van is a small portable shower. It runs from the van’s motor and can be dropped into a bucket of water.

I picked up this portable shower originally on eBay, but it’s available on Amazon too. It can be charged from the USB port and dropped into a bucket of water. It has a surprisingly strong jet. Perfect for muddy paws, sandy underbellies, and those days when Bow Boe decides to roll in something “interesting.” Quick rinse, towel wrap, and we’re back on the road.

🐶 5. Drying Off: The Absorbent Towel Trick

After a rinse with the van’s shower, Bow Boe gets the spa treatment. I wrap her in this super absorbent towel to soak up as much water as possible before she jumps back inside. It’s quick, efficient, and saves the van from becoming a mobile puddle.

For less dramatic days — just damp paws and a little trail grime — I keep an extra large, absorbent dog towel from Lucky Paws handy. It’s ideal for cleaning Bow Boe’s legs and underbelly without needing a full rinse. Soft, fast-drying, and big enough to wrap her up when needed.