> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.catstandard.co.uk/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # How to clean a cat tree and scratching post - URL: https://www.catstandard.co.uk/how-to-clean-cat-tree/ - Published: 2026-09-13T14:01:27.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-02T11:59:33.000Z - Description: A practical cleaning sequence for cat trees and scratching posts, including used furniture, washable parts and when disinfection needs separate advice. - Author: Kieran Simpson - Tags: Scratchers & play, #research-guide ## The short answer **Inspect the tree, remove loose hair and dirt, clean each material as its label allows, then dry and reassemble it fully.** Start with the [model-specific care table](#care-table); a removable cushion has not automatically volunteered for the washing machine. For a [second-hand cat tree](#second-hand), check its condition and history first. [Disinfection needs a separate decision](#disinfect), especially after illness. On this page [Cleaning a second-hand tree](#second-hand)[Start with the label and parts list](#identify)[Remove the loose stuff first](#loose-debris)[Which parts can be washed?](#care-table)[What about cardboard scratchers?](#cardboard)[Can you disinfect it?](#disinfect)[Dry, refit and check the structure](#dry)[When cleaning is not the next step](#replace)[Make the next clean less of a project](#routine)[Sources and scope](#sources-and-scope) ## How to clean a second-hand cat tree Before a used cat tree or cat tower joins the furniture, give it a proper inspection. Our practical starting point is to keep it out of use while you check what you have brought home: 1. **Ask about its history.** Find out why it is being passed on, which model it is and whether there has been illness, persistent soiling or pest treatment. Keep any care instructions. An unknown history is a reason to investigate, not proof of a problem. 2. **Check the structure before cleaning.** Look at the base, boards, posts and fixings. A crack, unstable joint or exposed fixing needs a [repair-or-replace decision](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/repair-or-replace-cat-equipment/) before a cat climbs on it. 3. **Separate the parts by care method.** Remove covers and pads only as designed. Follow their labels, clear loose hair from permitted surfaces and use the [care table](#care-table) for the named models. Do not soak a whole tree because one cover is washable. 4. **Decide what is worth keeping.** For a sound frame with a worn pad or post, check [exact replacement parts](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/cat-tree-replacement-posts-pads/#matched-parts). A replacement cover does not solve contamination elsewhere. For known or suspected infectious contamination, keep the tree out of use and ask your vet about suitable decontamination or disposal. Finish with the [drying and stability checks](#dry) below. Looking cleaner does not establish that an unknown used tree has been disinfected. ## Start with the label and parts list Find the model reference on the order, label or assembly sheet. Check which cushions, covers and scratching surfaces are designed to come off. Keep fixings together and take a photograph before dismantling anything that needs to go back in a particular order. Separate the care questions: what can be washed, what can only be wiped, and what should stay dry? “Easy to clean” does not answer any of those particularly well. Our [scratcher-material comparison](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/cardboard-vs-sisal-cat-scratchers/) helps identify the difference between cardboard, rope and woven surfaces. ## Remove the loose stuff first Move the cat to another resting spot while you work. Pick up loose pieces around the base and remove shed hair from accessible surfaces using a method the maker permits. Inspect fabric loops and edges before using an attachment that could snag them. Work around the tree rather than reaching behind it blindly. Check the underside of platforms and the gaps beside posts. This is also a useful opportunity to find the toy everyone had accepted was gone. ## Which parts can be washed? The instructions below belong to the named furniture. They are not interchangeable rules for every cat tree made from a similar material. Scroll across to see the full table. Omlet guidance rechecked and Feandrea PCT003N01 added on 2 October 2026; Catit guidance checked 13 September 2026. __Omlet guidance rechecked and Feandrea PCT003N01 added on 2 October 2026; Catit guidance checked 13 September 2026.__ | Furniture / part | Care method | Source and limit | | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | [Catit Vesper Base Walnut](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00TOK58UO?tag=catstandard-21&ref=catstandard.co.uk): laminated boards | Use a microfibre cloth for dust; the care guide permits a damp, non-abrasive sponge with dish soap, then wiping dry. | [Manufacturer care guide](https://www.catit.com/spotlight/catit-vesper-furniture-cleaning-guide/?ref=catstandard.co.uk). Keep the scratching parts out of the wet cleaning. | | [Catit Vesper Base Walnut](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00TOK58UO?tag=catstandard-21&ref=catstandard.co.uk): fabric cushions | Hand-wash in warm water with laundry detergent, following the label. Dry fully before refitting. | [Fabric-care instructions](https://www.catit.com/spotlight/catit-vesper-furniture-cleaning-guide/?ref=catstandard.co.uk). A removable cushion is not automatically machine-washable. | | Catit Vesper Base Walnut: scratching posts and mats | Vacuum dust and dirt; keep water away. | [Specific scratching-surface guidance](https://www.catit.com/spotlight/catit-vesper-furniture-cleaning-guide/?ref=catstandard.co.uk). This conflicts with the UK shop’s broader hand-washing wording; use the dedicated care instructions. | | [Omlet Freestyle indoor cat tree](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=76702&awinaffid=2914431&clickref=catstandard&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.omlet.co.uk%2Fshop%2Fcat%5Fproducts%2Ffreestyle-floor-to-ceiling-cat-tree-uk%2F&ref=catstandard.co.uk): poles and platforms | Omlet specifies a soft cloth and pet-safe disinfectant. | [Manufacturer cleaning FAQ](https://www.omlet.co.uk/shop/cat%5Fproducts/freestyle-floor-to-ceiling-cat-tree-uk/support/?ref=catstandard.co.uk). Follow the chosen product’s label for use, contact time and any rinsing; this is not permission to soak the whole tree. | | [Omlet Freestyle indoor cat tree](https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=76702&awinaffid=2914431&clickref=catstandard&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.omlet.co.uk%2Fshop%2Fcat%5Fproducts%2Ffreestyle-floor-to-ceiling-cat-tree-uk%2F&ref=catstandard.co.uk): fabrics | Woven fabrics: gentle machine wash at 40°C with mild detergent. Faux sheepskin: hand-wash at 40°C. No tumble drying, ironing or bleach. | [Fabric-specific FAQ](https://www.omlet.co.uk/shop/cat%5Fproducts/freestyle-floor-to-ceiling-cat-tree-uk/support/?ref=catstandard.co.uk). Identify your fabric and check its label before choosing the cycle. | | [Feandrea 160 cm cat tree](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C5QPZ3F6?tag=catstandard-21&ref=catstandard.co.uk), PCT003N01 | The brand listing identifies a removable perch cover and cave pad. Remove them only as designed and use their supplied care labels for washing and drying. | The exact Dove Grey + Cream White listing was checked on 2 October 2026\. Removable does not establish a machine-wash cycle; the listing does not verify one. Keep the frame out of the wash. | For the Top Cat setup in our [Omlet Freestyle review](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/omlet-freestyle-cat-tree-review/), use the woven-fabric instructions for its woven cushions. A faux-sheepskin accessory needs the separate hand-wash method. Keep the part label with the order; the colour is not a washing instruction. ## What about cardboard scratchers? Do not transfer a washable-cushion instruction to a cardboard insert. Check its own care directions and remove loose debris without pulling apart the scratching surface. If no wet-cleaning method is specified, do not assume the cardboard can be soaked, steamed or sprayed through. A detachable insert and its holder may have different care requirements. Remove the insert only as designed, and clean the holder according to its own instructions. For a soaked or heavily soiled insert without a suitable cleaning method, check the exact replacement route rather than trying to turn it into a washable material. ## Can you disinfect a cat tree? **Some parts may be suitable; do not treat the whole tree as one washable surface.** Cleaning removes dirt and debris. Disinfection reduces disease-causing organisms using a suitable process. Neither a fresh smell nor a quick spray establishes that the job is done. The [European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases' guidance](https://www.abcdcatsvets.org/guideline-for-disinfectant-choice-in-feline-veterinary-hospitals-shelters-and-cat-households/?ref=catstandard.co.uk) stresses cleaning before disinfection and choosing for effectiveness and feline safety. No single disinfectant suits every purpose. Avoid phenol-based disinfectants and essential-oil cleaning recipes around cats. Where both the furniture instructions and disinfectant label permit the use, follow the specified dilution, contact time, rinsing and drying directions. A product suitable for a hard platform is not automatically suitable for rope, glued fabric or the board beneath it. Do not override a dry-clean-only instruction with a steam cleaner or a stronger mixture. [Cats Protection advises keeping cats away from cleaning fumes](https://www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/getting-a-cat/keeping-your-cat-safe?ref=catstandard.co.uk) and ventilating well. Keep your cat away while you work and until the components are dry and the product's re-entry instructions are met. **After a suspected infectious illness, ask your vet for a plan before reusing the tree.** Share the materials and care limits: a routine cushion wash cannot be assumed to resolve contamination throughout the furniture. The practical choice may be replacing an affected part or disposing of equipment that cannot be suitably treated. ## Dry, refit and check the structure Follow the permitted drying method and wait until cleaned components are fully dry before refitting. Check pockets, seams and the underside of cushions rather than judging only the top. Keep the cat off the equipment while parts are removed or connections are loose. Reassemble in the maker’s order. Check that pads are attached as intended, connections are secure and required wall or ceiling fixings remain in place. Cleaning is not a reason to omit an awkward bracket when putting everything back. ## When cleaning is not the next step Look for a cracked board, a loose connection that will not secure, exposed fixings or a damaged supporting post. Stop using an insecure structure while you arrange the appropriate repair or replacement. A fresh cover can conceal a fault without resolving it. For worn but otherwise sound equipment, identify the component in our [matched replacement-parts table](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/cat-tree-replacement-posts-pads/#matched-parts). It includes a replacement post, a cushion and surface wraps, with their compatibility limits. For visible mould or persistent soiling without a permitted cleaning method, keep the affected part out of use and ask the manufacturer about replacement. Illness-related cleaning is covered in the [disinfection section](#disinfect). If the whole tree needs replacing, compare the [large-cat tree picks](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/best-cat-trees-for-large-cats-uk/) and [floor-to-ceiling versus freestanding layouts](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/floor-to-ceiling-vs-freestanding-cat-tree/). Cleaning or replacing a sound tree’s worn surface comes first. ## Make the next clean less of a project Keep the manual with your order record and make a short note of the care method for each removable part. Clean according to use and the maker’s instructions rather than waiting for the entire tree to look ready for retirement. If you are replacing the whole item, our [cat-tree buying guide](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/how-to-choose-cat-tree/#upkeep) puts cleaning access and spares alongside size and layout. For the rest of the setup, browse [Scratchers & play](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/topics/scratchers-and-play/). ## Sources and scope Omlet’s linked cleaning FAQ was rechecked on 2 October 2026, alongside the exact Feandrea PCT003N01 brand listing. Catit guidance was checked on 13 September 2026\. Follow the label for your own version. Read [our editorial standards](https://www.catstandard.co.uk/our-standards/). The second-hand checklist is our practical application of the care checks above. ABCD disinfection guidance and Cats Protection household-cleaning advice were checked on 2 October 2026; the new section explains general principles, not a disease-specific treatment protocol.