A Groomers’ Store Cupboard

There are a huge range of useful, effective products out there for dog grooming and dog groomers alike. But did you know there are a number of handy store cupboard ingredients that you can also utilise in the salon? Here are our favourite store cupboard items and their uses:

• Apple cider vinegar removes soap scum and grime from skin and surfaces. Combine with bicarbonate of soda for a tough scrubbing solution. Or, try Groomers Skin Saver for use on coats as an effective, clarifying rinse.
• Baking soda has a wide range of uses. Sprinkle on your feet to keep them dry and smelling sweet, use as a rinse to clarify and whiten dog coats, or mix with vinegar to make an effective surface cleaner.
• Bananas. Ideal for worn, tired hands and even dry skin spots on dogs (always consult the owner for pre-existing skin conditions). Mash into a paste and leave on clean skin for 15 minutes. Try mixing with avocado, honey or olive oil for even more nourishment.
• Epsom salts help remove hair splinters, soothes bruises and cleanses. You can even have a bath in it to soothe any post work aches and pains.
• Magnesium sulphate. Available from most pharmacies, a little magnesium sulphate helps remove hair splinters quickly and easily.
• Oatmeal. Soak sore, cracked hands in oatmeal and milk for 15 minutes at the end of each day for instant relief and long-term skin condition.