Your wash stall needs to be functional and safe.
A wash stall is a great addition to your horse property. They can be located inside the barn or attached on the outside. Their main purpose is to serve as a waterproof space to wash and groom your horse. Some barn owners also like to clean buckets and other horse supplies. It’s important your wash stall is a safe and functional space.
Key Features of a Wash Stall
Location: Wash stalls can be indoors or outdoors. They each have their own pros and cons. An indoor wash stall can be accessed year-round, no matter what the weather is like outside. They can be more expensive to build, though. An outdoor wash stall offers an affordable way to bathe your horse. The ideal size is 12’x12’.
Water: Your wash stall will need access to water. In ideal situations, you’ll have both hot and cold water. Spray nozzles and an overhead hose attachment are great extras to have.
Drainage: An indoor wash stall usually has a concrete base. It’s essential that it has proper drainage installed. The floor must be sloped or angled to the drains. An outdoor wash rack should also be designed to move water away. Some use gravel for these spaces. The goal is to prevent an accumulation of water from puddling in the area.
Waterproof: Both the walls and flooring need to resist water. They should be easy to clean and safe for horses. Materials like fiberglass are often used on the walls. Some will use wood with a marine-grade coating to protect from moisture damage. Concrete blocks are another durable option.
Safe: This space should have a secure tying system, ideally with breakaway crossties of some sort. The flooring should be non-slip. RAMM offers a 3′ x 3′ x 1/2″ Interlocking Wash Mat. These mats create a slip-resistant surface with maximum drainage. They can be connected to create a large surface space. Additionally, you’ll need a safe and secure space to store shampoos, sponges, and other wash necessities. You don’t want your horse stepping on them!
Lighting: You want to avoid strong shadows on your horse, so make sure to plan your lighting accordingly. Good lighting is a must for visibility! You can find a wide selection of lighting options at RAMM. The TRITONPRO LED Slimline Barn Light and TritonPro RSHB1 – Round High Bay are worth considering.
Insulation: When designing your wash stall, consider your winters. If your temperatures get below freezing, then you definitely want to think ahead when building. Insulating the pipes and fixtures is a good idea.
A designated space to bathe and groom your horse is a wonderful amenity to have at your barn. It can make washing them much safer and more enjoyable! With a carefully thought-out design, you’ll be one step closer to having your dream horse property.
